Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

Louisiana online colleges provide students the opportunity to attend school in the Pelican State no matter where they live. Discover the top colleges in our guide.
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Updated February 22, 2024

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Louisiana is a state like none other, known for Mardi Gras, French culture, creole and Cajun food, an active jazz and blues music scene, and renowned educational institutions.

If you enjoy limitless cultural experiences and a subtropical climate, a Louisiana college might be the right choice.

Whether you're a lifelong resident of the state who wants to attend college online or just want to attend one of the online colleges in Louisiana from elsewhere — find everything you need to know below.

AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

Featured Online Programs

Find a program that meets your affordability, flexibility, and education needs through an accredited, online school.

Rankings Summary of ​​Online Colleges in Louisiana

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Top Online Colleges in Louisiana

Read About Our Methodology

#1 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

  • Baton Rouge, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $326-$1,110
Out-of-State | $326-$1,110

Credits to Graduate: 12-120

LSU Online offers more than 150 online programs, including bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Most of LSU's online programs feature six start dates each year. Many classes run asynchronously for increased flexibility.

The school charges all students the same tuition rate regardless of state residency. Online degrees do not require campus visits. In addition to accepting scholarships from other grantors, LSU Online offers public health distance learners a scholarship program.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,038
Out-of-state
$8,038
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,132
Out-of-state
$9,132
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
35,912
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
50% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

University of Louisiana at Lafayette

  • Lafayette, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Undergraduate Tuition Cost per Credit:
In-State | $283-$417
Out-of-State | $283-$417

Credits to Graduate: 12-120

UL Lafayette Online offers undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs online. Courses run in accelerated eight-week or traditional 16-week formats. Some degrees offer multiple start dates per year for increased flexibility. 

All students pay the same tuition rate for online classes, regardless of state residency. Though distance learners are not eligible for institutional scholarships from UL Lafayette, they can still access other financial aid opportunities. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,407
Out-of-state
$19,135
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,511
Out-of-state
$19,239
Retention Rate
75%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
16,225
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
44% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

McNeese State University

  • Lake Charles, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Semester:
In-State | $4,250-$4,829
Out-of-State | $4,750-$5,329

Credits to Graduate: 35-120

McNeese's online programs include bachelor's and master's-level programs in areas like law, healthcare, and education. Online students can pursue self-paced, asynchronous study or hybrid delivery models. Some programs offer multiple start dates each year. 

While most classes use a standard semester format, some online classes run in accelerated seven-week sessions. For tuition, out-of-state students pay an additional nonresident fee of $500 per credit. Online learners can apply for scholarships from the school.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,147
Out-of-state
$13,185
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,703
Out-of-state
$13,740
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
69%
Students Enrolled
6,454
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
86% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

University of Louisiana at Monroe

  • Monroe, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $400-$500
Out-of-State | $400-$500

Credits to Graduate: 30-125

ULM's online offerings include over 35 programs in areas such as political science, business administration, education, and health studies. Distance learners can earn bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. 

Online classes run in accelerated four- and eight-week sessions as well as in the traditional semester format. ULM charges students in all states the same tuition rate. Applicants can qualify for financial aid opportunities like loans and grants. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,788
Out-of-state
$17,888
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,490
Out-of-state
$18,590
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
70%
Students Enrolled
8,718
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
53% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

  • Natchitoches, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $100-$475
Out-of-State | $100-$475

Credits to Graduate: 15-120

The NSU Global Campus offers associate programs, bachelor's degrees, master's programs, doctorates, and certificates. Students can earn degrees in fields like allied health, child and family studies, and computer information systems. Online classes typically blend asynchronous and synchronous delivery modes. 

While most classes run fully virtually, some may have in-person requirements, such as on-campus midterms and finals. At the NSU Global Campus, online students have the same financial aid opportunities as on-campus students. They also pay the same tuition rate regardless of where they live. 

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,180
Out-of-state
$15,968
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,738
Out-of-state
$16,526
Retention Rate
64%
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
10,735
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
88% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

Loyola University New Orleans

  • New Orleans, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $135-$950
Out-of-State | $135-$950

Credits to Graduate: 30-120

Loyola Online offers a plethora of distance education programs, including bachelor's, master's, and certificate programs. The school's City College division hosts asynchronous associate and bachelor's degrees developed specifically for working students. 

Non-City College programs employ a mixture of synchronous and asynchronous content but usually offer multiple start dates per year. Loyola maintains an office for online student success that connects learners to success coaches and other resources. Distance education enrollees do not qualify for institutional scholarships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$41,698
Out-of-state
$41,698
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$17,249
Out-of-state
$17,249
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
4,570
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

Nicholls State University

  • Thibodaux, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $275-$412
Out-of-State | $275-$412

Credits to Graduate: 18-120

Nicholls Online offers nine bachelor's programs, including options in political science, nursing, and sociology. The school also offers several associate and master's programs alongside a post-baccalaureate certificate. Online classes at Nicholls run in accelerated eight-week sessions, and students can take up to 18 credits each semester. 

Learners can enroll with multiple annual start dates. Most online classes at Nicholls run asynchronously, though some courses may offer synchronous learning opportunities. Online students can qualify for talent-, merit-, or needs-based scholarships.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,922
Out-of-state
$6,015
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,686
Out-of-state
$6,779
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
6,225
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#8 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary

  • New Orleans, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Cost per Credit:
In-State | $340-$365
Out-of-State | $340-$365

Credits to Graduate: 18-121

The online learning programs at NOBTS include certificates and associate, bachelor's and master's degrees. Courses run in both asynchronous and synchronous formats, with some classes allowing students to choose which delivery mode they prefer.

Some programs have approval to run fully online but do not actually offer every class in a distance learning capacity, so research program requirements and online course availability before enrolling. Online students at NOBTS are eligible for institutional scholarships. All learners pay the same tuition rates regardless of state residency.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,240
Out-of-state
$9,240
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,750
Out-of-state
$6,750
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,004
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
46% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Best Online Colleges in Louisiana

University of Holy Cross

  • New Orleans, LA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Undergraduate Tuition Cost per Credit:
In-State | $330-$735
Out-of-State | $330-$735

Credits to Graduate: 27-120

Holy Cross students can pursue associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees online in fields like executive leadership, counseling, and applied behavioral sciences. The school also offers certification-only programs for educators. In addition to an accelerated management master's degree, learners can also pursue accelerated bachelor's programs in accounting and business administration.

Holy Cross online enrollees are eligible for institutional scholarships and other forms of financial aid. All attendees pay the same tuition rates regardless of state residency. Accelerated programs charge lower tuition than other programs.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$14,160
Out-of-state
$14,160
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$12,690
Out-of-state
$12,690
Retention Rate
67%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
1,236
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
56% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Price Check

The state of Louisiana offers the START Saving program to help families begin to save for their child's college education.

Cost of Living in Louisiana

While the cost of living in Louisiana varies by city, overall, the state's cost of living is nine percent lower than the national average. The cost of living is even lower in some areas that students are specifically concerned about, including housing and utilities.

Students who want to attend an online college in Louisiana can find other ways to cut costs by living with roommates and taking advantage of student discounts, student transportation, and campus health services.

Cost of Living in Louisiana vs. National Average
Cost of Living Category Compared to National Average
Housing (Buy and Rent) 17% lower
Utilities (Monthly) 13% lower
Food 4% lower
Healthcare 1% lower
Transportation 6% lower
Goods & Services 4% lower
Source: RentCafe

Louisiana Scholarships

The cost of attending college can prohibit some students from attending, and online college is no different. In order to offset some tuition costs, prospective students are invited to apply for scholarships to help fund their attendance at online universities in Louisiana.

Some of these scholarships, amounts, and eligibility requirements are listed below.

10 Fast-Growing Jobs in Louisiana

Attending online colleges in Louisiana can prepare you for a future in some of the fastest-growing careers in the state.

The careers with the highest projected growth rate through 2030 are film and video editors (46%) and nurse practitioners (38%). Other top-growing occupations include data scientists, entertainment agents, and epidemiologists.

Each of the fast-growing careers on our table requires at least a bachelor's degree. Attending an online college in Louisiana can help you prepare to enter these promising job markets.

Fast-Growing Careers in Louisiana 2020-2030
Job Projected Growth Education Level Required
Film and Video Editors 46% Bachelor's degree
Nurse Practitioners 38% Master's degree
Data Scientists and Mathematical Science Occupations 35% Bachelor's degree
Agents and Business Managers of Artists, Performers, and Athletes 35% Bachelor's degree
Epidemiologists 34% Master's degree
Music Directors and Composers 34% Bachelor's degree
Producers and Directors 33% Bachelor's degree
Orthotists and Prosthetists 32% Master's degree
Fashion Designers 31% Bachelor's degree
Logisticians 29% Bachelor's degree
Source: Louisiana Workforce Commission

Frequently Asked Questions About Online College in Louisiana


What is the cheapest online college in Louisiana?

The cheapest online college you can attend in Louisiana is Nicholls State University. The cost for in-state tuition is $8,156 for the academic year, which makes it about $1,500 cheaper than the state's average tuition cost.

What is the easiest online college to get into in Louisiana?

Nicholls State University is the easiest online college to get into in Louisiana. This college admits 98% of applicants. This college could be a good choice for students who might not meet some requirements at other schools.

How much does online college cost in Louisiana?

The cost to attend online colleges in Louisiana is usually the same cost as attending on campus, but there may be additional or different fees, as well as other financial aid opportunities. The average cost of tuition in Louisiana is $9,642 for in-state students and $23,333 for out-of-state students.

Is online college free in Louisiana?

While it's not free to attend online college in Louisiana, there are scholarships and grants available to help students manage the cost. Financial aid options also help students pay for their education over time.

Typically, online students qualify for the same financial aid and scholarship opportunities as on-campus students.

Do I need to be a resident of Louisiana to attend an online college in Louisiana?

You don't need to be a resident of Louisiana to attend an online college in the state, but you may have to pay a higher out-of-state tuition cost if you live elsewhere. Some universities charge a separate flat rate for online students, while others will charge tuition based on your state residency.

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AffordableCollegesOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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