Top Universities and Colleges in Louisiana

From highly ranked national universities to specialized colleges with unique missions, Louisiana's higher education landscape is marked by its variety and depth. At the forefront of this landscape is Tulane University, followed by Louisiana State University, Louisiana Tech University, and several other distinguished institutions that offer a range of academic programs and foster a strong commitment to both student success and community engagement.

Tulane University stands as the highest-ranked National University in Louisiana, holding a prestigious position as the 51st best university in the United States according to the US News & World Report rankings of 2009. As a private, nonsectarian research university, Tulane has earned recognition not only for its academic programs but also for its entrepreneurial focus. It has been ranked 15th in The Princeton Review and Entrepreneur magazine’s list of the top 25 graduate entrepreneurship programs in the nation. The university’s commitment to research and innovation is evident in its wide-ranging programs and the vibrant intellectual community it fosters. With strong faculties in the arts and sciences, business, engineering, and law, Tulane offers students a rigorous and well-rounded education, preparing them to succeed in various fields and contribute meaningfully to society.

Tulane's status as a leading university extends beyond the classroom. It is renowned for its community service programs and its efforts to integrate service-learning into its academic offerings. The university's location in New Orleans, a city known for its unique culture and rich history, provides students with opportunities to engage in meaningful community service and research projects that benefit the local population. This commitment to blending academic achievement with social responsibility underscores Tulane's reputation as a top-tier institution that educates students not just for careers, but for lives of purpose and impact.

Following Tulane in prominence is Louisiana State University (LSU) in Baton Rouge, which is another Tier 1 National University in the state. Ranked 130th nationally by the US News & World Report, LSU is renowned for its comprehensive programs and significant contributions to research, particularly in areas relevant to the state’s economic and environmental landscape. LSU is notable for its strong undergraduate and graduate programs in engineering, with the 2008 US News & World Report placing its Best Undergraduate Engineering Program at 92nd in the nation. Its Graduate Chemistry Program, ranked 74th, demonstrates LSU’s commitment to advancing scientific research and education. Additionally, the university’s petroleum engineering program, consistently ranked among the top 10 in the United States for graduate studies, reflects the institution’s role as a leader in training experts who are vital to Louisiana's oil and gas industries.

LSU’s extensive research output and academic offerings make it a cornerstone of higher education in the state, contributing to Louisiana's workforce and its position as a hub for engineering, science, and environmental research. With a strong tradition of school spirit and a commitment to public service, LSU embodies the spirit of a comprehensive state university that supports the growth and development of its students while contributing to the broader community and economy.

Louisiana Tech University, located in Ruston, is another key institution that provides a high-quality education to its students. Known for its selective admissions process, Louisiana Tech offers a range of bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degree programs in disciplines such as engineering, business, and the sciences. The university has cultivated a reputation for offering a private-college atmosphere at a public-university price, making it an attractive option for students seeking a more personalized and close-knit educational environment without the associated costs of private education. Louisiana Tech's emphasis on research and innovation is apparent in its strong partnerships with local industries and its commitment to fostering technological advancements that benefit both students and the wider community.

Southern University and A&M College, located in Baton Rouge, is notable for its historical significance as part of the only historically black Land Grant university system in the United States. Established in 1880, Southern University has grown to offer a wide range of graduate, professional, and doctoral programs. It stands as a beacon of educational opportunity, particularly for African American students, and has contributed significantly to the cultural and social fabric of Louisiana. The university’s role as an educational and cultural leader is underscored by its strong community involvement and its focus on programs that support social and economic development within the state.

Loyola University New Orleans is another highly regarded institution that has been recognized for its community service efforts. The university was named to the President’s Higher Education Community Service Honor Roll for its community service activities during the 2006-2007 academic year, showcasing its commitment to social responsibility and public service. Loyola’s programs are deeply rooted in its Jesuit mission, focusing on education, service, and the development of a just society. With strong programs in arts and sciences, business, and law, Loyola provides students with an education that emphasizes critical thinking, ethical leadership, and service to the community.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is classified as a Carnegie RU/H: Research University (high research activity), placing it in the company of notable institutions like Clemson, Auburn, and Baylor. UL Lafayette is committed to research and has made significant contributions to areas such as engineering, computer science, and the health sciences. Its role as a research university helps bolster Louisiana's reputation as a center for academic excellence and innovation. The university’s diverse student body and comprehensive academic programs provide students with ample opportunities for research, internships, and collaboration with faculty members who are leaders in their fields.

Centenary College of Louisiana, a member of the Associated Colleges of the South, is also an important institution in the region. It is regularly ranked among the top colleges in the South, known for its strong liberal arts programs and a commitment to academic rigor. The college's focus on providing a well-rounded education with opportunities for research, service, and cultural enrichment has helped it maintain a strong reputation as a top-tier institution in the region.

Xavier University of Louisiana, a historically Black university, has garnered recognition from various national publications including The New York Times, U.S. News and World Report, Changing Times, The Chronicle of Higher Education, and USA Today. Its academic programs, particularly those in the sciences and health-related fields, have been instrumental in preparing students for careers in fields that have significant impacts on both local and national communities. Xavier’s commitment to excellence and social responsibility has solidified its standing as an influential institution that contributes to the development of future leaders and professionals.

Louisiana College, known for its high academic standards, has also received recognition as one of the top colleges in the South. In 2008, it was ranked 37th under "Best Baccalaureate Colleges" (South) by US News & World Report. The college's emphasis on a strong liberal arts education, combined with a commitment to Christian values, appeals to students seeking an education that integrates academic achievement with personal growth and ethical development.

Our Lady of Holy Cross College (OLHCC) offers a unique educational experience in the South. Fully accredited to award associate, baccalaureate, and master's degrees, OLHCC has a strong focus on creating a nurturing and supportive learning environment that emphasizes personal and professional development. Its commitment to academic excellence and service-oriented education positions it as a respected institution in Louisiana.

Lastly, Our Lady of the Lake College, founded by the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady, embodies the values of its religious heritage. The college's strong emphasis on healthcare, education, and community service aligns with the Franciscan mission of serving others, making it a valued institution within Louisiana's higher education community.

List of colleges and universities in Louisiana:

• Centenary College of Louisiana
  
• Dillard University
  
• Grambling State University
  
• Louisiana College
  
• Louisiana Tech University
  
• Loyola University New Orleans
  
• McNeese State University
  
• Nicholls State University
  
• New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary
  
• Northwestern State University of Louisiana
  
• Notre Dame Seminary
  
• Our Lady of Holy Cross College
  
• Our Lady of the Lake College
  
• Southeastern Louisiana University
  
• Tulane University
  
• Xavier University of Louisiana
  
• Louisiana State University System
  

• Alexandria
  
• Baton Rouge
  
• Health Sciences Center
  
• Shreveport
  
• University of New Orleans

• Southern University System
  

• Baton Rouge
  
• New Orleans

• University of Louisiana System
  

• Monroe
  
• Lafayette