Top Louisiana Nursing Schools and Programs

Top Louisiana Nursing Schools and Programs

Louisiana experiences a high demand for nurses and boasts one of the highest National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rates. This guide aims to assist both prospective and current nurses in navigating Louisiana’s thriving healthcare landscape, featuring top-ranking academic institutions such as Louisiana State University and Southern University and A&M College, along with the prestigious Ochsner Medical Center. The state’s robust healthcare community, coupled with renowned academic institutions, presents a promising environment for individuals pursuing a nursing career in Louisiana. This comprehensive guide explores the process of earning a nursing degree, obtaining licensure, and securing employment in the state.

Nursing Landscape in Louisiana

Louisiana’s healthcare sector is thriving, driven by high-quality academic institutions like Louisiana State University and Southern University and A&M College, complemented by the excellence of Ochsner Medical Center. This guide aims to provide valuable insights into becoming a nurse in Louisiana, offering information on salary expectations, job outlook, and the best nursing programs within the state.

American States With the Best NCLEX Pass Rates

Methodology for Ranking

To facilitate your search for a suitable nursing program, our rankings employ a data-driven methodology. Key metrics, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings, inform our rankings. These criteria are designed to address the most pertinent factors that matter to students.

Top Louisiana Nursing Schools and Programs

1. Loyola University New Orleans

Loyola University New Orleans, situated in the heart of New Orleans, Louisiana, serves over 4,500 students through a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs. This Jesuit institution stands out with its top-rated nursing degrees, offering guaranteed clinical placements in collaboration with Ochsner Health.

Programs:
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus:
New Orleans, Louisiana

Type:
Private

Accreditation:
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Tuition:
$45,030 per year

Admission Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent, official transcripts, personal statement, one letter of recommendation

Minimum Time Commitment:
Four years

On-Campus Requirements:
Yes

Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $38,926
– Out-of-state: $38,926

Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $14,724
– Out-of-state: $14,724

Retention Rate:
78%

Admission Rate:
75%

Students Enrolled:
4,367

Institution Type:
Private

Percent Online Enrollment:
36%

Accreditation:
Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

2. Nicholls State University

Nicholls State University, the sole university serving the Bayou Region, is located in Thibodaux, Louisiana. With an enrollment of 6,500 students across 107 programs, Nicholls boasts a 120-credit BSN program that prepares students for RN licensure, emphasizing evidence-based care across the lifespan.

Programs:
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus:
Thibodaux, Louisiana

Type:
Public

Accreditation:
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Tuition:
$2,461 per semester

Admission Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent official transcript, completion of Regents Core Curriculum, minimum 21 ACT or minimum 1060 SAT score or minimum 2.35 GPA

Minimum Time Commitment:
Four years

On-Campus Requirements:
Yes

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation:
$60,030 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard

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:
73%

Admission Rate:
88%

Students Enrolled:
6,491

Institution Type:
Public

Percent Online Enrollment:
52%

Accreditation:
Yes, Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

3. McNeese State University

McNeese State University in Lake Charles, Louisiana, offers a diverse array of academic programs with over 100 undergraduate and 36 graduate options. The College of Nursing and Health Professions provides nursing degrees at the bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. The 120-credit BSN program includes extensive clinical rotations and placements in various healthcare settings.

Programs:
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus:
Lake Charles, Louisiana

Type:
Public

Accreditation:
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Tuition:
$9,000 per year for Louisiana residents; $14,000 per year for out-of-state students

Admission Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent official transcripts, minimum 2.5 GPA, minimum 20 ACT or 1030 SAT score

Minimum Time Commitment:
Four years

On-Campus Requirements:
Yes

School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate:
98%

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation:
$58,104 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard

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:
70%

Admission Rate:
81%

Students Enrolled:
7,295

Institution Type:
Public

Percent Online Enrollment:
56%

Accreditation:
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

4. Louisiana College

Louisiana College, based in Pineville, Louisiana, is a Baptist-affiliated college that has been a significant institution since its founding in 1906. The nursing division offers various BSN and MSN options, including a traditional four-year BSN and an accelerated 17-month track for individuals with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.

Programs:
– Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus:
Pineville, Louisiana

Type:
Private

Accreditation:
Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)

Tuition:
$8,929 per semester

Admission Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent official transcripts, minimum 2.6 GPA, ACT or SAT scores

Minimum Time Commitment:
Four years

On-Campus Requirements:
Yes

Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation:
$62,211 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard

Average Undergrad Tuition:
– In-state: $17,500
– Out-of-state: $17,500

Average Graduate Tuition:
– In-state: $7,416
– Out-of-state: $7,416

Retention Rate:
67%

Admission Rate:
69%

Students Enrolled:
1,224

Institution Type:
Private

Percent Online Enrollment:
25%

Accreditation:
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

This detailed exploration provides valuable insights into Louisiana’s top nursing schools and programs, enabling prospective nurses to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.

#5 Southeastern Louisiana University

Hammond, LA
4 years
Online + Campus

Southeastern, the state’s third-largest public university enrolls 14,300 students in more than 150 fields of study, including one of the top-ranked nursing programs in Louisiana. The bachelor of science in nursing offers several options: a generic four-year baccalaureate degree, an RN-to-BSN, an LPN-to-BSN, and an accelerated BSN for students with a non-nursing bachelor’s degree.

Program: Bachelor of science in nursing
Campus: Hammond, Louisiana
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $2,889 per semester
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, official transcripts, completion of Regents Core Curriculum, minimum 2.5 GPA, 16+ ACT math score and 15+ ACT English score
Minimum Time Commitment: Four years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $61,728 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,777
Out-of-state
$18,255
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$6,684
Out-of-state
$19,162
Retention Rate
68%
Admission Rate
90%
Students Enrolled
14,220
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
31% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 University of Louisiana at Monroe

Monroe, LA
4 years
Online + Campus

Located in northeastern Louisiana, ULM is part of the University of Louisiana system. The Kitty DeGree School of Nursing offers a traditional 120-credit BSN degree, an RN-to-BSN, an LPN-to-BSN, and an online MSN. Applicants to the pre-nursing curriculum must meet ULM’s general admission requirements and fulfill all requirements of the pre-nursing curriculum with a 2.8 cumulative GPA.

Program: Bachelor of science in nursing
Campus: Monroe, Louisiana
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $364 per credit for Louisiana residents; $686 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent, official transcripts, completion of Regents Core Curriculum, minimum 2.35 GPA, minimum 20 ACT
Minimum Time Commitment: Four years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $61,516 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
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
73%
Admission Rate
80%
Students Enrolled
8,673
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Natchitoches, LA
4 years
Online + Campus

The first university in Louisiana to award business education and nursing degrees, NSU currently offers more than 50 degree programs. One of the best nursing schools in Louisiana, NSU offers degrees from the associate to the doctoral level. Prospective students can pursue an associate of nursing science, a traditional BSN, a BS-to-BSN for students who already hold a bachelor of science in another field, an LPN-to-BSN, and an RN-to-BSN.

Program: Bachelor of science in nursing
Campus: Natchitoches, Louisiana
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $2,590 per semester
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent official transcripts, completion of Regents Core Curriculum, minimum 2.35 GPA, 18+ ACT English score or 19+ ACT math score
Minimum Time Commitment: Four years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.9%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,326 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
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
70%
Admission Rate
82%
Students Enrolled
10,900
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
82% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

8 Grambling State University

Grambling, LA
4 years
Online + Campus

Grambling State University, a historically Black, public institution, provides quality liberal arts and professional training in more than 40 programs. The school of nursing offers both undergraduate and master’s degrees. The BSN comprises a 60-credit, pre-nursing component and a 60-credit, upper-division professional component. Students complete general education and pre-nursing courses before applying for admission to the professional component.

Program: Bachelor science in nursing
Campus: Grambling, Louisiana
Type: Public
Accreditation: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE)
Tuition: $1,556 per credit
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent official transcripts, minimum 2.0 GPA, minimum 20 ACT or 1030 SAT scores
Minimum Time Commitment: Four years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $68,219 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$5,140
Out-of-state
$5,140
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,110
Out-of-state
$5,110
Retention Rate
74%
Admission Rate
97%
Students Enrolled
5,232
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
48% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#9 Louisiana State University-Alexandria

Alexandria, LA
4 years
Online + Campus

The only state-supported undergraduate university in Louisiana, LSUA offers nursing students several degree pathways. The associate of nursing science (ASN) requires one semester of pre-requisites and four semesters of clinical courses. The LPN-to-ASN consists of one semester of pre-requisites, followed by 3-4 semesters of clinical courses. The fully online RN-to-BSN takes 12-18 months to complete, depending on the number of accepted transfer credits.

Program: Associate of science in nursing
Campus: Alexandria, Louisiana
Type: Public
Accreditation: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN)
Tuition: $417 per credit for Louisiana residents; $720 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent official transcripts, completion of Regents Core Curriculum, minimum 2.0 GPA in core courses or minimum 20 ACT score
Minimum Time Commitment: 12 months
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 95.9%
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $44,021 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$4,984
Out-of-state
$4,984
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
58%
Admission Rate
56%
Students Enrolled
3,381
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
65% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Louisiana

Aspiring nurses must take into account various factors when deciding on the most suitable nursing program for their needs. To aid in narrowing down choices, applicants should examine a program’s admission criteria and standing.

Exploring the cost of tuition, program duration, and financial support options for nursing students can assist in determining the optimal choice. Additionally, assessing the school’s track record in preparing students is crucial. This can be accomplished by researching NCLEX passing rates and verifying the accreditation of the nursing program.

Reasons to Pursue a Nursing Career in Louisiana

For prospective registered nurses (RNs) seeking programs that effectively equip them for the field, Louisiana proves to be an ideal choice. In 2020, nearly 93% of students in the state successfully passed the NCLEX-RN on their initial attempt.

Nurses interested in practicing in Louisiana can also benefit from the state’s participation in the Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC). Louisiana, among 36 other states, has agreed to a set of rules facilitating licensed RNs’ practice in the state with minimal paperwork, especially for those holding licenses from other states.

Nurses possessing an NLC license are exempt from license renewal fees and can provide telehealth nursing care across state borders.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Louisiana

While RNs and advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) may not earn as much as counterparts in other states, ranking 38th and 26th, respectively, they enjoy a lower cost of living in Louisiana, below the national average. This enables their average salary to have a greater impact than those in states with higher living costs. To gain insights into RN salaries in Louisiana, one can refer to the Louisiana Center for Nursing.

The Louisiana Center for Nursing predicts a persistent nursing shortage from 2019 to 2025, with over 7,200 positions expected to remain unfilled.

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Louisiana

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Louisiana

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Median Salary for RNs
New Orleans — Metairie	$70,930
Hammond	$68,830
Alexandria	$67,680
Houma — Thibodaux	$66,940
Monroe	$65,650

Source: BLS

Steps to Attaining a Nursing License in Louisiana

To obtain licensure in Louisiana, aspiring RNs need a nursing diploma, an associate degree, or a bachelor’s degree from a program approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing. Following program completion, students must successfully pass the NCLEX-RN exam before applying for state licensure.

Prospective APRNs must already hold an RN state license and possess an advanced degree in nursing before applying for state licensure.

Both RNs and APRNs are obligated to fulfill continuing education requirements to maintain their license and continue practicing in the state.

RN Requirements

Becoming an RN in Louisiana necessitates graduation from an accredited nursing program with either an associate degree in nursing (ADN) or a bachelor of science in nursing (BSN). After completion, prospective nurses must pass the NCLEX-RN and submit a licensure application to the state, along with two fingerprint cards, authorization for a background check, and a $62.50 application fee.

RNs must complete a minimum of 30 continuing education hours or 900 practice hours every two years for license renewal.

APRN Requirements

To become an APRN, prospective nurses require an unencumbered RN license. RNs must obtain a master of science in nursing (MSN) or a doctor of nursing practice (DNP). Louisiana’s board of nursing recognizes four advanced practice roles: certified nurse practitioner, clinical nurse specialist, certified registered nurse anesthetist, and certified nurse midwife.

APRNs must also have a population focus, such as adult, family, or pediatrics. Those specializing in mental health can work with more than one age group.

APRNs lacking national certification must complete 30 hours of advanced practice continuing education. Nurses with prescriptive authority must fulfill six hours of pharmacotherapeutics.

Those with controlled-substance authority require three hours of training in drug diversion, best practices in prescribing controlled substances, treatment for addiction, or other matters related to prescribing controlled-dangerous substances.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Louisiana

How long does it take to become an RN in Louisiana?

The quickest route to becoming an RN in Louisiana is by obtaining a nursing diploma, which requires one year to complete. However, for greater professional opportunities and earning potential, prospective nurses should pursue either a two-year ADN or a four-year BSN.

The duration of each program increases if the student can only attend courses part-time.

How do I transfer my nursing license to Louisiana?

Nurses who earned their license in a non-NLC state must apply for endorsement, limiting their practice to the state that issued the license. Those who obtained a license in an NLC state can apply for a multistate license, allowing practice in Louisiana and all other nursing compact states.

Is LSU a reputable nursing school?

Louisiana State University offers a high-quality nursing program, as evidenced by its average NCLEX-RN pass rate exceeding 95% over the last decade. The program’s scores surpass the national average, and LSU Health New Orleans School of Nursing is recognized as a Center for Excellence by the National League for Nursing.

Which HBCU has the top nursing program in Louisiana?

Southern University and A&M College, one of the premier historically Black colleges and universities (HBCU) in Louisiana, provides an affordable in-state tuition and boasts an NCLEX pass rate of almost 90%. The school offers BSN, MSN, and DNP programs for students seeking diverse nursing education opportunities.