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Louisiana offers diverse cultures and cuisines, along with the musical heritage of jazz and blues. The state is home to some prestigious and big-name universities, including Tulane University, Louisiana State University (LSU), Loyola University New Orleans, and Louisiana Tech University.
Online colleges in Louisiana allow you to earn a degree from leading institutions without having to get to class at a specific time or even leave your home. If you want a world-class degree and the flexibility to fit school around your work and personal life, consider applying to online schools in Louisiana.
Why Consider Online Colleges in Louisiana?
- Online Louisiana colleges offer hundreds of degrees and certificates.
- An online degree gives you greater flexibility to learn on your own schedule and at your own pace.
- Over 30 colleges in Louisiana offer online bachelor's and master's degree programs.
- Many Louisiana colleges boast world-class research and premier academics.
- You only need to live in Louisiana for a year to qualify for in-state tuition rates.
Did You Know?
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LSU alone offers over 100 degrees and certificates that you can earn 100% online. -
Louisiana's most disproportionately popular degree is petroleum engineering. -
The fastest-growing careers in Louisiana include nurse practitioners, data scientists, cooks, and rotary drill operators, according to Projections Central. -
Biomedical science collaborations in Louisiana got a $20 million grant from the National Institutes of Health in 2022.
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Does Accreditation Matter for Online Schools in Louisiana?
When researching online colleges in Louisiana, check that the schools are accredited.
Accreditation is a process that ensures institutions meet certain academic standards.
There are many benefits to attending an accredited school. For example, only students at accredited schools can qualify for federal financial aid. What's more, many graduate programs only accept degrees and transfer credits from accredited institutions.
The best online colleges in Louisiana will hold accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).
Best Online Schools in Louisiana
Read About Our Methodology Here
These rankings include
#1 5 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana
Louisiana Tech University
Ruston, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Louisiana Tech University is a leader in online education. In addition to on-campus programs in Ruston, the school delivers 15 online programs. The flexibility of online programs allow many learners to work full time while earning their degree.
Online students at the institution benefit from an online learning community, which can lead to professional connections. Along with completing coursework, degree-seekers can pursue experiential learning opportunities such as research projects and internships. Academic advisors help enrollees select courses based on their personal interests and professional aspirations. Mock interviews allow students to practice their interpersonal skills and improve their chance of landing a job after graduation.
Financial aid counselors help applicants explore funding options to reduce out-of-pocket costs. Enrollees can submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid, including loans and grants. Of the school's student body, 98% qualify for some form of financial aid.
#2 5 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Lafayette, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Louisiana at Lafayette's online offerings deliver exceptional academic quality and increased scheduling flexibility. Students in many fields of study can find suitable options in the school's 14 online programs. The institution enrolls 6,584 degree-seekers in its remote programs.
The online learning community allows remote students to collaborate with peers through discussion boards and email. While earning their degree, participants can use virtual communication tools to network with classmates. In addition to completing internships, students can conduct original research to gain professional experience and impress employers after graduation. To assist distance learners, the institution delivers resources including academic advising in a virtual format. To prepare to apply for jobs after graduation, enrollees can take advantage of mock interviews and resume help.
Students with demonstrable financial need can submit the FAFSA to receive funding from the federal government. The financial aid office can help learners identify funding options to pursue, such as grants and scholarships. According to the institution, 96% of all enrollees receive some type of financial aid.
#3 5 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana
McNeese State University
Lake Charles, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
McNeese State University provides online learners with high-quality programs in various fields. Students who prefer to learn online can select one of the public institution's 26 distance programs. Online degree-seekers can complete coursework at their convenience, from anywhere, eliminating the need to live near campus.
Through forums and chats, online enrollees can engage in a supportive learning community. Hands-on experiences such as internships and research projects help participants gain practical skills. Academic advisors help degree candidates select classes and ensure they are on track to graduate.
The school offers numerous internal and external funding opportunities to eligible applicants. To understand their financial aid options, students can contact the institution's financial aid office. At the school, 99% of enrollees fund their education using some form of financial aid.
#4 5 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Baton Rouge, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College's academic options include top-quality online programs that prepare enrollees to succeed in their chosen profession. The school's offerings include 20 online programs, through which 8,775 learners pursue their degree. Attending the institution online allows students to complete assignments according to their schedule.
Through the virtual learning platform, enrollees can connect with classmates and professors to develop their professional network. In addition to completing internships, degree-seekers can bolster their resume by conducting original research. Career services prepare students to obtain a job in their field after graduation.
Degree-seekers can access career services for help choosing the best professional path. To explore employment options, learners can attend job fairs organized by the school.
Students in different programs often have unique costs and educational expenses. Before enrolling, applicants should consider the overall cost of earning a degree and can receive detailed information from an admissions counselor. Enrollees who need additional funding can pursue federal student loans, which typically offer better terms than private loans.
#5 5 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Students who plan to attend school online can consider University of Louisiana at Monroe's remote academic programs. In addition to delivering on-campus programs from its campus in Monroe, the public school offers 34 online programs. The institution enrolls 3,756 online learners, who complete rigorous coursework to earn their degree.
The online learning platform allows enrollees to complete group projects, attend virtual office hours, and develop a supportive academic network. Online programs feature advanced coursework, during which learners gain the specific skills necessary for their profession. Throughout their program, students consult with academic advisors before registering for classes. To be more competitive for professional roles, enrollees can conduct original research and complete internships while earning their degree.
While program costs vary, applicants can contact the financial aid office for information about specific fees and expenses. Potential funding options for students include federal financial aid, institutional awards, and private scholarships.
On-Campus vs. Online Degree in Louisiana: Which Is Better?
Both on-campus and online degrees in Louisiana come with pros and cons. Ultimately, which option is better for you will depend on your goals, commitments, and budget.
On-campus programs can give you the traditional college experience, with opportunities for networking, in-person tutoring, student support, and campus activities. For degrees that require labs and practicums, on-campus courses may be required.
That said, on-campus programs typically cost more than online degrees. You may also need to pay for on-campus housing and other student fees.
Online degrees, by contrast, give you maximum flexibility. These programs often have the same course requirements as on-campus programs, but you can complete them anywhere.
Many online degrees are asynchronous, allowing you to fit in classes around work and family commitments. Online programs also often cost less than traditional on-campus degrees.
If you want an on-campus experience with greater flexibility, a hybrid degree could give you the best of both worlds. This unique program type blends online courses with on-campus requirements.
The structure varies by college and degree program, so check with your program before you enroll.
How Much Do Online Colleges in Louisiana Cost?
The average annual cost of tuition and fees at a public four-year college in Louisiana was $9,642 in 2020-2021, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Private four-year colleges in Louisiana cost an average of $41,393 per year in tuition and fees.
The cheapest option is a public two-year college, which cost an average of $4,219 in 2020-2021 for in-state students.
Online tuition can vary. At LSU, for example, online tuition and fees cost an average of $8,630 for 30 credits. The University of Louisiana, meanwhile, charges a flat rate of $380 per credit for undergraduate courses — which comes out to $11,400 for 30 credits.
Note that online students will also need laptops and, in some cases, may need to pay distance learner fees.
You can save money on your education by submitting the FAFSA each year.
City Spotlight: Online Colleges in New Orleans
New Orleans is a diverse city with unique cultural activities, music, and food. New Orleans hosts more than 130 festivals annually and is home to nine colleges, including Loyola University, Tufts University, and the University of New Orleans.
The greater New Orleans area has even more colleges and universities you can choose from.
The most popular degrees at the University of New Orleans include biology, business, liberal arts, and humanities.
| School | Accreditation | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Delgado Community College | SACSCOC | Public, 2-Year |
| Dillard University | SACSCOC | Private, 4-Year |
| Loyola University New Orleans | SACSCOC | Private, 4-Year |
| New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary | SACSCOC | Private, 4-Year |
| Southern University at New Orleans | SACSCOC | Public, 4-Year |
| Tulane University | SACSCOC | Private, 4-Year |
| University of Holy Cross | SACSCOC | Private, 4-Year |
| The University of New Orleans | SACSCOC | Public, 4-Year |
| Xavier University of Louisiana | SACSCOC | Private, 4-Year |
What About Online Community Colleges in Louisiana?
Community colleges in Louisiana can help you earn a certificate or associate degree online for less than the cost of a four-year degree.
You can also complete your general education requirements online at a community college and then transfer to a four-year college.
In just two years at community college, you can earn an associate degree online and start your career as a registered nurse, dental hygienist, web developer, database administrator, paralegal, or radiologic technologist.
| School | City | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Baton Rouge Community College | Baton Rouge | SACSCOC |
| Bossier Parish Community College | Bossier City | SACSCOC |
| Fletcher Technical Community College | Schriever | SACSCOC |
| Louisiana Delta Community College | Monroe | SACSCOC |
| Louisiana State University Eunice | Eunice | SACSCOC |
| Northshore Technical Community College | Lacombe | SACSCOC |
| Nunez Community College | Chalmette | SACSCOC |
| River Parishes Community College | Gonzales | SACSCOC |
| South Louisiana Community College | Lafayette | SACSCOC |
| Southern University at Shreveport | Shreveport | SACSCOC |
What Are the Highest-Paying Jobs in Louisiana?
The most lucrative jobs in Louisiana include nurse anesthetist, podiatrist, and architectural and engineering manager, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
High-paying jobs with promising projected growth in Louisiana include petroleum engineer and industrial production manager.
To become an architectural or engineering manager, you must have at least a bachelor's degree in engineering or architecture. Nurse anesthetists, meanwhile, need a master's in nursing.
| Job | Median Annual Salary in LA (May 2021) | Job Growth Rate in LA (2020-2030) | Minimum Education Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nurse Anesthetists | $168,450 | 2% | Master's |
| Podiatrists | $163,700 | -17% | First-professional |
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $162,060 | 5% | Bachelor's |
| Chief Executives | $152,020 | -7% | Bachelor's |
| Power Distributors and Dispatchers | $129,900 | 0% | High school diploma |
| Petroleum Engineers | $128,730 | 16% | Bachelor's |
| Chemical Engineers | $127,850 | 5% | Bachelor's |
| Pharmacists | $127,240 | 1% | First-professional |
| Industrial Production Managers | $121,230 | 8% | Bachelor's |
| Dentists, General | $121,020 | -6% | First-professional |
Sources: BLS, Projections Central
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Louisiana
Louisiana has 37 four-year universities, including nonprofit and for-profit institutions, according to NCES. This consists of 21 public four-year universities and 16 private four-year universities. Many of these schools offer online degree programs.
Online degrees take a similar amount of time and require a similar number of credits as traditional degrees.
To earn a bachelor's degree online at the University of Louisiana, for example, you'd need 120 credits. For a master's degree, you'd need around 30-39 credits to graduate, depending on your major.
In most cases, you need to live in Louisiana for at least one full year to qualify for in-state tuition. At LSU, for example, you must live in the state for 12 consecutive months, or 365 days, before the first day of the semester in order to be considered an in-state student.
Yes, LSU offers more than 100 online degrees and certificates. You can choose from online bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, and professional certificates in fields like business, technology, healthcare, education, criminal justice, engineering, human services, and liberal arts.
According to NCES tuition data, some of the cheapest colleges in Louisiana are Infinity College, Northwest Louisiana Technical Community College, Fletcher Technical Community College, Bossier Parish Community College, River Parishes Community College, and Central Louisiana Technical Community College.
The cheapest way to attend college in Louisiana is at a two-year college, where the average tuition is $4,219 per year. Of four-year colleges in Louisiana, in-state public university tuition is usually more affordable than that for private universities.