Louisiana's Top Affordable Online Colleges
Across the country, more employers want workers to possess some level of higher education. For example, Georgetown Center on Education and the Workforce projects that by the year 2020, 56% of jobs in Louisiana will require postsecondary education, and 7% will require a master's degree. As traditional labor-based careers in the U.S. shrink, continuing an education may serve you well. This guide outlines the state of higher education in Louisiana, online degrees in particular. With the growing popularity of online programs, students who live both in and outside the state can benefit from higher education in Louisiana.
#1 Online Schools In Louisiana
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Natchitoches, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Northwestern State University of Louisiana offers online degrees that do not compromise quality. The public school delivers 53 virtual degrees. Distance learners can pursue some of the nation’s best programs at the institution. The school enrolls students in a variety of bachelor’s and graduate programs. Remote degree-seekers enjoy benefits such as asynchronous learning.
The school's online platform appeals to people who need flexibility and affordability. Enrollees studying online can also transfer credits or an associate degree to accelerate degree completion. A test-optional policy facilitates easier admission. Distance learners applying to the school can expect an 82% admission rate. Northwestern State University of Louisiana has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Northwestern State University of Louisiana Fast Facts:
School Status: Public
Number of Online Learners: 8,906
Programs Available Online: 53
Bachelor’s Programs Available Online: 16
Cost of Tuition for Undergraduates: $5,180 a year in-state; $15,968 a year out-of-state
Admission Rate: 82%
Percent Online Enrollment
82%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Online Schools In Louisiana
The University of Louisiana Monroe
- Monroe, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution, the University of Louisiana Monroe offers in-person and online degrees from its main campus. Students all around the United States enroll in the school's virtual programs. Graduates of the online college reach their professional goals with in-demand degrees in STEM, business, and healthcare.
The school offers undergraduate and graduate programs for its distance learners. General education courses give undergraduate degree-seekers foundational knowledge. Enrollees also take higher-level courses in their field of study. Graduate students participate in seminars and build advanced skills in their online courses.
Prospective applicants can reach out to the school to learn more about admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates. To get connected to financial aid opportunities, enrollees can work with the accredited institution.
The University of Louisiana Monroe Numbers:
Total Number of e-Learners Enrolled: 3,756
Online Bachelor's Programs Available: 14
Percent of Applicants Accepted: 80%
Rate of Graduation: 47%
Transfer Credits Permitted: No
Percent Online Enrollment
43%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Online Schools In Louisiana
Louisiana Tech University
- Ruston, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Louisiana Tech University is a four-year public college. Students pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees on campus or remotely. Degree-seekers enjoy a catalog of 130 online degrees. The school administers programs in the liberal arts and professional studies. Enrollees complete degrees in a variety of majors.
The degree blends theoretical learning and practical experience such as internships and practicums. Prospective distance learners should explore in-person requirements such as residencies. Online students complete most degrees completely virtually with no on-campus visits. Faculty embed real-world experience in the curriculum. The school offers online services such as tutoring in various subjects.
Louisiana Tech University has an admission rate of 64%. Competitive tuition and financial aid help make students’ education affordable. Learners pay the same tuition regardless of residency. The average total aid per enrollee is $10,384. The school is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
17%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Online Schools In Louisiana
Louisiana State University Shreveport
- Shreveport, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Louisiana State University Shreveport counts itself as one of the top online colleges in the United States. The accredited institution's distance learners have five online bachelor's programs to choose from. Students can also choose from six online master's programs. A total of 7,405 degree-seekers enroll remotely at the school.
A public school, the school enrolls around 1,047 students from its campus in Shreveport, Louisiana. Distance learners attend class virtually from across the country. The institution's student services benefit online enrollees. Students at the online school get access to academic advising, financial aid counseling, and career services.
Degree-seekers wanting to pursue a degree in a top-choice major get their needs met at the online college. The school's distance learners receive accredited degrees meeting the criteria for many different positions in the workforce. Offering a low-cost education is one of the institution's top priorities. The school charges $344 per credit on average and awards financial aid to 94% of students.
Percent Online Enrollment
86%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#5 Online Schools In Louisiana
Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical College
- Baton Rouge, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Louisiana State University offers a total of 228 programs from its campus located in Baton Rouge. The public institution delivers programs using both in-person and online formats. A 20-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio and flexible format make the virtual programs appealing to many degree-seekers. The school designs its top-ranking programs for busy students and working professionals.
For online degrees, remote learners use a virtual classroom space to interact with each other and their teachers. They develop necessary skills and learn important knowledge for a future career in their chosen field. Students learn in-demand skills like critical thinking and problem-solving through the general education requirements. Academic advising, tutoring services, and career counseling are available to the online school's remote enrollees to support their academic career. Participants graduate with a degree from an accredited institution.
Louisiana State University Numbers:
Online Bachelor's Programs: 3
Total Number of Online Master's Programs: 10
Percent of Students Admitted: 75%
Percent Online Enrollment
28%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#6 Online Schools In Louisiana
The University of New Orleans
- New Orleans, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A Louisiana, institution, the University of New Orleans offers degrees on campus and virtually as a public institution. Students nationwide choose to enroll remotely in the school's programs. The online college helps graduates meet their professional goals by offering in-demand degrees in STEM, healthcare, and business.
Undergraduate and graduate learners find many online program options at the school. Undergraduate degrees feature general education classes and foundation courses. Enrollees complete higher-level classes in their field of study as well. Online courses and seminar participation help graduate learners gain advanced skills.
For more information on admission requirements, application deadlines, and start dates, prospective students can contact the school. Enrollees work with the accredited institution to find opportunities for financial aid.
The University of New Orleans Fast Facts:
Total Online Students Enrolled: 3,750
Percent of Applicants Admitted: 56%
Percent of Students who Graduate: 42%
Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#7 Online Schools In Louisiana
McNeese State University
- Lake Charles, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Lake Charles, Louisiana, McNeese State University is a top choice for people who want to earn a degree remotely. Online learners can enroll in liberal arts and professional studies programs offered at the nonprofit school. Using distance learning, working professionals and busy students can conveniently earn accredited degrees while they work.
A 120-credit bachelor’s program typically takes four years to complete. Enrollees complete a master’s degree in about 24 months. Distance learners view live and recorded classes. Degrees require classroom lectures and practical experience such as internships. Online degree-seekers view lectures and submit assignments on schedule.
At the school, students can begin their education with certificates or associate degrees. The institution provides online support services such as tutoring and career advising. Competitive tuition makes online degrees affordable. The average total aid per student is $7,090. The school has an acceptance rate of 81%. The school is regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
56%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#8 Online Schools In Louisiana
Nicholls State University
- Thibodaux, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Established in Thibodaux, Louisiana, Nicholls State University provides learning with 56 degrees. Working professionals can continue their careers as they enjoy the choice of nine online bachelor's programs and four online master's degrees. Online schools allow students to earn a degree while juggling responsibilities. E-learners receive a rigorous education through top-ranked academics at the school. Remote degree-seekers transfer credits to accelerate completion of a bachelor’s. Busy students can earn a master’s degree from a variety of options. Some graduate programs provide participants with field experience in the community.
Online enrollees enjoy the school’s affordable education. The application process requires school transcripts. Students at Nicholls State University earn degrees accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Nicholls State University at a Glance:
On-Campus and Online Programs: 56
Bachelor’s Degrees Available Online: 9
Total Associate Programs Available Online: 2
Online Master’s Degrees: 4
Price of Tuition for Undergraduates: $4,922
Percent Online Enrollment
52%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Online Schools In Louisiana
Grambling State University
- Grambling, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Grambling State University is a four-year public college located in Louisiana. The institution offers undergraduate and graduate programs on campus and online. Degree-seekers choose from a catalog of 73 virtual programs. Enrollees receive a strong liberal arts and professional education. Students can pursue degrees in a variety of fields.
The program blends theoretical learning and practical experience such as internships and practicums. Some online degrees require limited on-campus requirements such as residencies. Virtual learners complete most degrees online with no on-campus visits. Faculty embed real-world experience in the curriculum. Online students receive assistance such as tutoring in various subjects.
Grambling State University admits students at an admission rate of 97%. Enrollees pay for a bachelor’s degree with competitive tuition rates and financial aid. Residents and nonresidents pay the same e-learning tuition rate. The school awards an average total aid per student of $7,686. Grambling State University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#10 Online Schools In Louisiana
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- Lafayette, LA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
A public institution University of Louisiana at Lafayette is one of the top online colleges in the state. The accredited online school's distance learners pick from five virtual bachelor's programs. The institution's distance learning courses' online enrollment totals 6,584.
A virtual classroom environment lets remote learners complete the online degree's coursework from anywhere. Students often meet in-person requirements with internships or clinical practicums in their local area. Many schools offer student services such as academic advising, career counseling, and online tutoring for online enrollees. The institution's experiential learning opportunities prepare graduates to transition into the workforce.
Online degrees from the school charge an affordable tuition rate. Undergraduates can expect to spend around $388 per credit for their bachelor's degree. Online students meeting eligibility criteria qualify for financial aid, including federal aid programs and scholarships, at the accredited institution.
Percent Online Enrollment
39%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Why Choose Louisiana for Online Higher Education?
An online education in Louisiana may benefit anyone looking to complete a degree, but it especially serves full-time employees, single parents, or laborers wanting to shift careers. With 60 online programs available in Louisiana, students all over the U.S. may experience the flexibility and affordability of distance learning.
- Number of programs offered completely online in Louisiana: 60
- Undergraduate students enrolled exclusively online in Louisiana: 8,635
- Graduate students enrolled exclusively online in Louisiana : 6,790
- Total international students enrolled exclusively online in Louisiana: 76
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
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Cost of Attending an Online College in Louisiana
Generally, in-state students pay a lower tuition than out-of-state ones. According to the National Center for Educational Statistics, the average in-state tuition for a public, four-year school in Louisiana is $17,287, with out-of-state tuition at $23,099. As online learning becomes more common, more schools offer distance programs to resident and nonresident students at lower costs than traditional on-campus formats. This reduction can be attributed to fewer associated costs for in-person attendance, campus housing, lab fees, and physical textbooks.
In-state tuition
$8,162 – public, four-year institution
$3,919 – public, two-year institution
Out-of-state tuition
$23,099 – public, four-year institution
$7,292 – public, two-year institution
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Attending school in Louisiana is slightly more affordable than the average cost of attendance nationwide, with a national average being $18,632 to attend a public, four-year institution.
Many online programs in Louisiana are offered at the same cost as their on-campus counterparts. Some schools are known to offer discounted tuition for distance learners, while other programs offer in-state tuition to out-of-state students earning their degree online in Louisiana.
Considering a Louisiana School as an Out-of-State Student
When selecting a distance program out of your state, consider tuition, accreditation, and program transferability in addition to academics. Be aware of possible restrictions or state agreements for individuals earning their education out-of-state. Some schools, especially if they are unaccredited, may not grant you a degree that is acceptable for work in your state. Louisiana has a number of reciprocity agreements with other member states of the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB).
Out-of-State undergraduate students studying exclusively online in Louisiana: 1.048
Out-of-State graduate students studying exclusively online in Louisiana: 2,362
Tuition Discounts
Louisiana holds membership in the Academic Common Market, a branch of the SREB. The SREB — a nonprofit group funded by member donations and grants from federal and state agencies — consists of 16 member states and devotes itself to improving the accessibility and affordability of higher education. Funds are awarded as reciprocal tuition, meaning that students attend college out of state for the same cost as standard resident tuition in that state. Distance learners from Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia may all be eligible for reciprocal tuition.
State Authorizations for Online Learning
In addition to standard accreditation, typical for nearly all higher education programs, online degrees must go through other authorizations. The variability in accreditation by state and region determines the standard of education required of students to work in a given field in their state. Online programs and reciprocity agreements mandate the necessity for additional accreditation and review. Most distance programs are reviewed by the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements to ensure that online programs are held to the same high standard of traditional degrees.
Check with an admissions or financial officer: Tuition rates are ultimately program- and institution-based. Ask someone from a prospective program about what rates apply to you specifically as a potential member of a specific program.
Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana's Online Schools
To find out all you need to know about your ideal school, browse the institution's website. For students who are still deciding on a school or who are unsure how to pick one that best suits their needs, the FAQs below may help.
Do online credits cost more or less in Louisiana?
Earning an online degree from a school in Louisiana often costs the same for in- and out-of-state students. Most online schools in Louisiana will offer lower tuition to distance learners due to the lower costs associated with online, asynchronous program delivery. Students should be aware; however, that other fees may be associated with online learning, such as membership to an online portal or access to the online library. Students, particularly those from out of state, should note if hybrid program models exist and ensure they do not cost extra. With the exception of students from other ACM/SREB member states, out-of-state students looking to attend on-campus classes at any Louisiana school will be charged out-of-state tuition.
Which Louisiana schools accept the most transfer credits?
Throughout Louisiana, universities and colleges permit transfer credits from other regionally or nationally accredited schools. That said, some institutions will not accept credits for classes deemed "non-academic," such as those earned at a vocational school. Students with coursework from other schools and programs may submit credits for transfer through the Master Course Articulation Matrix, which allows students to determine classes that will transfer to other institutions in Louisiana. Most online institutions in Louisiana will also analyze a transfer applicant's transcripts in determining whether or not to accept a credit.
Even if a transferable credit is completed, many schools will require a minimum grade. Some schools even allow the transfer of work and experience in place of actual credits from another school. It is also common for students to earn an associate degree at a local two-year school and then apply those credits toward an undergraduate degree at a four-year college or university. The Louisiana State Board of Regents has created the Louisiana Transfer Associate Degree, designed to provide students with 60 credits of general education that can be applied toward any bachelor's degree in Louisiana.
Will any online colleges in Louisiana accept a GED?
As of 2014, Louisiana no longer offers GED prep or testing. Instead, the state offers students the HiSET, one of three tests used in the U.S. to measure high school equivalency learning and skills. Within Louisiana, the Community and Technical College Network oversees this test. Employers, postsecondary institutions, and government agencies all accept the HiSET as well as the GED and the Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC).
Schools in some states will only accept one form of high school equivalency. In Louisiana, most schools will only accept the HiSET, though students from out-of-state looking to attend a Louisiana school online or on campus may request a waiver to accept the GED or TASC earned in his/her resident state. HiSET prep and testing resembles the TASC or GED, but requires more subjects of testing. Unlike the GED which focuses mostly on technical education, the HiSET also tests a student's abilities in reading, writing, and social studies.
How many academic terms per year do online colleges in Louisiana offer?
Not only do most online schools offer a host of academic resources to distance learners, but they also frequently increase program flexibility through asynchronization and multiple start dates. By allowing students to begin their education at multiple times during the year or term, sometimes at one of several dates per month, online learners begin their education whenever is most convenient for them. Programs with multiple start dates are, by necessity, asynchronous in nature. Such programs best suit students who thrive on independent study. While asynchronous students still take part in peer discussion and receive instruction from professors, person-to-person interaction is limited. By enrolling in a program with multiple start dates, it becomes possible to accelerate your degree. While many online programs in Louisiana offer official accelerated curriculums, students completing an asynchronous degree may begin a new term at any time and complete all credits as quickly as possible.
Which online colleges will accept FAFSA in Louisiana?
The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) serves as a great starting point for college students looking for financial assistance to pay for college. Most public schools and the majority of private schools in Louisiana accept the FAFSA. To apply for the FAFSA, you must be a U.S. citizen and enrolled in an institution of higher education. Applicants must have already earned their high school diploma, GED, HiSET, or TASC.
Almost every student who applies is eligible for financial aid in some form. Funds are awarded to students as scholarships, loans, research grants, and work-study opportunities. These options are presented to students at any school that accepts the FAFSA. The FAFSA is not to be confused with the College Scholarship Service (CSS). While these programs are similar, the CSS tends to be more stringent in evaluating need-based aid. Most online schools in Louisiana accept both the FAFSA and the CSS.
Are there any free online classes I can take from Louisiana colleges?
In some cases, online institutions offer sample courses to prospective students, allowing individuals to click around the online platform, view a mock lecture, and note the appearance of assignments. Completion of any course materials without official enrollment will not be applicable toward any degree, nor will this education be accepted as transfer credit to any other institution.
How can I find the online program options at Louisiana's colleges?
Louisiana Online, created and maintained by the Louisiana Community and Technical College System, the Louisiana State University System, the Southern University System, and the University of Louisiana System, is a great resource for online options. In addition to providing resources for students to locate a school or program, Louisiana Online links to academic and career counselors within the state and in neighboring SREB-member states; it also provides information on career or internship opportunities, and professional organizations, networking groups of like-minded individuals that seek to advance a given profession. This information is most valuable for students nearing the end of their online program and looking to connect with professionals in their field.
Louisiana Scholarships and Grants
The majority of individuals seeking higher education will likely need to employ some form of financial aid in the form of scholarship funds, grant money, or a work-study program. As college expenses have risen, more scholarship opportunities have become available to students at the local, state, and federal level. Pell Grants are a great first option for students seeking financial aid.
Louisiana Go Grant Program
The Louisiana Office for Student Financial Assistance created this need-based program. Applicants must be high school seniors or current undergraduate students. Applications are evaluated based on levels of estimated family contribution. Priority is awarded to adult students (25 years and older) and transfer students.
Scholarship Amount: $300-$3000
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Society of Louisiana CPAs Scholarships
Each year, the Society of Louisiana Certified Public Accountants (SLCPA) awards a minimum of six scholarships to student members of the organization. To apply, students must be studying accounting and be a member of the SLCPA in one of nine accepted regions, such as New Orleans, Shreveport, or Baton Rouge.
Scholarship Amount: $500-$2,000
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Stephen W. Cavanaugh Scholarship Fund
Created in 2007, the Baton Rouge Area Foundation has awarded scholarship money to honor the late CEO of the Louisiana Workers' Compensation Corporation. To apply, students must be enrolled full time at a Louisiana college or community college and be studying finance, business, actuarial science, or risk management.
Scholarship Amount: $1,000
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Patrick F. Taylor Foundation Scholarships
Since 1985, this foundation has supported Louisiana students in the pursuit of higher education, particularly in the field of science. To apply, individuals must be accepted at a regionally accredited school with a high school GPA of at least 2.5.
Scholarship Amount: $500-$2,500
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TOPS Opportunity
The Taylor Opportunity Program for Students offers students scholarship money to apply toward any one of Louisiana's 18 public colleges and universities, including Grambling State University, Southern University, and Louisiana State University. Applicants must be residents of Louisiana and intend to complete at least 24 college credits each year.
Scholarship Amount: Varies
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