Overview
Enrollment
| Location | Natchitoches, Louisiana |
| Online | nsula.edu |
| School Type | Public 4 Year |
| Setting | Remote Town |
| Size | Mid-size |
| Status | Non-profit |
| On Campus Housing | Yes |
| Level of Study | Undergrad/Graduate |
Northwestern State University of Louisiana, based in Natchitoches, epitomizes a synthesis of historic charm and modern academic pursuits. As the oldest institution within the University of Louisiana System, established in 1884, it nestles approximately an hour's drive from Shreveport. The university, distinguished by its Creole-style architecture, offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate programs, with notable emphasis on education, nursing, and business disciplines among its academic offerings. The campus provides on-campus living accommodations to foster an immersive educational environment. Application to Northwestern State University is characterized by a moderately selective admission process, catering to a range of academic competencies. While it maintains a range of athletic programs, the university does not claim a defining reputation for athletic prowess on a national scale.
In the most recent statistical year 2,903 prospective students applied, and 2,843 were granted admission. Of those admitted 1,020 enrolled in the school. 5,042 students are enrolled on a full time basis, and 4,347 attend part time. In-state tuition for 2022/2023, excluding room and board, is $5,180 plus fees of $3,492. NSU is ranked 975 nationally in the CollegeSimply.com 2024 U.S. Colleges Ranking.
Ratings
Overall
Academics
Resources
Outcomes
Value
NSU is rated within the lower 28% of four-year colleges nationally and earns a CollegeSimply grade of 3 out of 10. Learn how ratings are calculated
Rankings
Rankings for Northwestern State University of Louisiana within the 2024 CollegeSimply Best Colleges Lists.
#975 in Best Colleges in the U.S.
#402 in Best Public Colleges in the U.S.
#15 in Best Colleges in Louisiana
#11 in Best Public Colleges in Louisiana
#32 in Best Value Colleges in Louisiana
View the CollegeSimply ranking methodology.
Getting In
Admission Standards
| SAT | 955/1135 |
| ACT | 18/23 |
| GPA | 3.3 |
Applications Accepted
| Applications Due | - |
| Applicant Competition | Very Low |
| Application Fee | $20 |
Annual Cost to Attend
Louisiana Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,300 |
| Other Fees | $3,492 |
| Room and Board | $10,269 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $5,470 |
| Total One Year Cost | $25,711 |
Out of State Resident Tuition
| Fee | Cost |
|---|---|
| Books and Supplies | $1,300 |
| Other Fees | $3,492 |
| Room and Board | $10,269 |
| Budget for Other Expenses | $5,470 |
| Total One Year Cost | $36,499 |
Outcomes
Average Salary After 10 Years
Bachelor's Degree Graduation Rate
Popular Areas of Study
| Subject | Percent of Class |
|---|---|
| Liberal Arts and Humanities | 39% |
| Health Professions | 19% |
| Business | 9% |
| Psychology | 7% |
| Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting | 5% |
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Students considering NSU are frequently interested in these similar colleges.
Primary data source, U.S. Department of Education https://nces.ed.gov/collegenavigator/?id=160038 IPEDS survey data for Northwestern State University of Louisiana.
Current students may use the Northwestern State University of Louisiana GPA calculator to determine their current college GPA.