Online Nursing Schools in Louisiana: Evaluating Top Programs
If you want to become a registered nurse (RN) in Louisiana and need a flexible option, consider RN to BSN programs. Some of these programs are not entirely online because nursing requires hands-on practice, but many offer hybrid formats that combine online coursework with in-person clinical training. We’ll detail program lengths, tuition, course formats, and more in this comprehensive guide to online nursing programs in Louisiana.
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Inside Different Types of Online Nursing Programs in Louisiana
Deciding to earn your nursing degree is big decision that can set you up for a lucrative and fulfilling career. For busy professionals, online nursing programs provide the flexibility needed for students already working in the healthcare field by building upon their existing experience. For example, RN-to-BSN, BSN-to-DNP, and Direct-Entry MSN programs usually integrate online courses with hands-on practical clinical experiences.
In hybrid programs, most lectures and assignments are online, with required practical training completed at a nearby healthcare facility. Some programs offer coursework entirely online, while others require occasional on-campus attendance for labs and simulations. Clinical training requires in-person hours at an approved facility.
When choosing a program, consider accreditation, duration, price, and how earning a degree fits into your career aspirations and state licensure. Online education is a great option for future nurses, but smart decision-making is the key to success.
Undergraduate Nursing Programs
Undergraduate nursing programs prepare students for entry-level nursing roles. These programs include the Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) and Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). They are designed for those new to nursing who wish to become registered nurses (RNs), with BSN programs offering a broader scope of practice and leadership development.
Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA)
Becoming a CNA requires learning essential skills such as patient care, medical terminology, anatomy, and physiology. These programs equip graduates for success in long-term care facilities, hospitals, and home healthcare settings.
Example: Fletcher Technical Community College Nursing Assistant Program
- Cost: $2,000, plus program-specific costs
- Length: 8 weeks
- Mode: Hybrid
FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:
Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
Designed to prepare you to become a licensed practical nurse, these programs include classroom instruction and hands-on clinical activities. You’ll gain skills necessary for your nursing career and be eligible to take the National Council of State Boards Licensure Examination (NCLEX) for Practical Nurses upon graduation.
Example: Sowela Technical Community College
- Cost: $4,265
- Length: 4 semesters (AAS) or 5 semesters (Technical Certificate)
- Mode: Hybrid
Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN)
ADN programs are available in hybrid, on-campus, and fully online formats, giving you flexibility in your studies. Training provides the education required to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam and usually takes two years of full-time study.
Example: Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Cost: $2,590
- Length: 2 years
- Mode: Hybrid
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Those with bachelor’s or master’s degrees in non-nursing majors can typically earn their BSNs in two years or less by completing an accelerated BSN program. By transferring lower-division credit hours earned in previous degree programs, students can quickly earn their bachelor’s. Accelerated BSN programs qualify graduates to sit for the NCLEX-RN exam.
Example: Loyola University New Orleans
- Cost: $51,664 annually
- Length: 17 months
- Mode: Hybrid
Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
Online RN-to-BSN programs help you advance your nursing career with a flexible format designed for working professionals. To excel in your field, you’ll develop leadership skills, explore evidence-based practice, and gain knowledge in nursing leadership theories, communication, and information systems.
Example: Louisiana State University of Alexandria
- Cost: $325 per credit hour
- Length: 12-18 months
- Mode: Online
Advanced Nursing Degrees
You can advance your nursing career with graduate and post-graduate programs, including a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) that prepare you for leadership roles in education, research, administration, and specialized patient care. Explore pathways to become nurse practitioners, clinical specialists, anesthetists, and more with these degrees and post-master’s certificates.
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
The traditional MSN program is for current RNs with a bachelor’s degree. Completion times vary from 18 months to three years or more based on factors like program track, full-time or part-time study, and specialization.
Example: Louisiana Christian University
- Cost: $350 per credit hour
- Length: 5 years
- Mode: Online
DNP and PhD Doctoral Programs
If you’re a working nurse looking for the highest level of academic training, a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) might be for you. You’ll gain a deep understanding of the challenges facing nursing and healthcare today. If you’re more interested in research, a PhD could lead you to a career in teaching, administration, or healthcare leadership.
Example: Northwestern State University
- Cost: $475/credit (up to 9 credits; $100 per additional credit)
- Length: 9 semesters
- Mode: Hybrid
Post-Master’s Certificate Programs
Looking to expand your nursing expertise? Enhance your career by completing post-graduate certificates in one of several specialized nursing fields. Common certificate specializations include Family Nurse Practitioner, Nurse Administration, Nurse Educator, Nurse Anesthesia, and Public Health. Completion times vary depending on specialization, previous field(s) of study, and level of professional experience.
Example: Southeastern Louisiana University
- Cost: $16,000
- Length: 4 semesters
- Mode: Hybrid
LA Bridge Programs for Nurses
Advance your nursing career with bridge programs that offer flexible paths for LPNs to become RNs, BSNs to earn MSNs, and RNs to specialize as FNPs, all while working full-time. Gain specialized skills and qualify for higher-paying roles in diverse healthcare settings with these degree programs.
RN to BSN
Online RN to BSN programs are designed for working nurses like you. Programs help build leadership skills and offer advanced knowledge and can be completed while you manage your busy schedule.
Example: Southern University Baton Rouge
- Cost: $10,000
- Length: 5 semesters
- Mode: Online
RN to MSN
With RN to MSN programs, you’ll receive specialized training to prepare you for in-demand roles in a rapidly growing field. Reach new career heights as you study online and gain skills to take on new roles.
Example: Loyola University New Orleans
- Cost: $885 per credit hour
- Length: 200 Practicum Hours
- Mode: Online
BSN to DNP
As a master’s prepared registered nurse, you can achieve the highest level of practice with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) program. This program empowers you to become a leader in healthcare, driving improvements in patient care and outcomes, especially for vulnerable populations. You’ll gain advanced clinical skills, translate research into practice, and influence healthcare systems.
Example: Northwestern State University
- Cost: $475/credit (up to 9 credits; $100 per additional credit)
- Length: 24 months
- Mode: Online
Direct-Entry MSN
A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program provides the advanced knowledge and clinical experience you need to excel. Programs prepare you for post-graduation certification exams and equip you to provide evidence-based care in specialized roles.
Example: McNeese State University
- Cost: $7,000 ($233 per credit)
- Length: 35-46 credit hours
- Mode: Online
Licensing Requirements for Louisiana RNs
To become a licensed registered nurse (RN) in Louisiana, you must complete an approved nursing program and pass the NCLEX-RN exam. You’ll also need to apply for a license with the Louisiana State Board of Nursing, authorize a background check, and then pay the required fees. Louisiana is a member of the Nurse Licensure Compact, which allows RNs licensed in one Compact state to practice in other Compact states. To maintain your license, you must complete continuing education or practice hours.
1 – Earn an Accredited Nursing Degree
- Get educated: Complete an accredited nursing program, such as an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Make sure the program is approved by the Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN) and a national agency like the CCNE or ACEN.
- Pass the test: Ace the NCLEX-RN exam to demonstrate your nursing knowledge and skills.
- Get licensed: Apply for your RN license through the LSBN. This involves submitting an application, paying fees, and authorizing a background check.
2 – Pass the NCLEX-RN Exam
- Graduate: Complete an accredited nursing program (ADN or BSN).
- Register and Pay: Sign up for the NCLEX-RN with Pearson VUE and pay the fee. You’ll get an email confirmation.
- Take the Test: Sit for the NCLEX-RN exam within four years of graduating.
- Ace it: If you pass, expect your Louisiana RN license in the mail within a few weeks. If you don’t pass, you’ll receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) to retake the exam.
3 – Apply for State Licensure
- Graduate: Earn your nursing degree from an accredited program.
- Pass the NCLEX: Take and pass the NCLEX-RN or NCLEX-PN exam.
- Apply: Submit your state licensure application online to the Louisiana State Board of Nursing (LSBN), including transcripts and fees.
- Renew: Every two years, renew your license and complete 30 hours of continuing education.
4 – Maintain and Renew Licensure
- Complete Continuing Competency: Choose 30 board-approved contact hours or 900 verified practice hours. You may have additional requirements if initially licensed by endorsement, in the previous year, or certified in a specialty area.
- Renew Online: Between October 1 and December 31, submit your renewal application through the Louisiana State Board of Nursing license renewal portal. Pay the $200 renewal fee ($250 if late after December 31).
- Check Status: Monitor your renewal progress in the message center of your online Nurse Portal Account. Verify your licensure on Nursys.com.
- Licenses expire on January 31 if not renewed.
5 – Pursue Specialty Certifications (Optional)
- CNM: Become a Certified Nurse Midwife specializing in pregnancy and childbirth.
- CRNA: Administer anesthesia as a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist.
- CNS: Deepen your expertise as a Clinical Nurse Specialist.
- Pediatric, Family, or Emergency Nurse Practitioner: Focus on specific patient populations.
- Trauma, Flight, or Emergency Nurse: Provide specialized care in critical situations.
Career Insights for Louisiana RNs
For those considering a nursing career in Louisiana, the state's job outlook is promising. The projected 7.5% growth in RN positions will add around 3,300 new jobs and offer 2,770 annual openings. This growth rate is higher than the national average, indicating a strong demand for nurses in Louisiana.
Salary figures vary across the state, with the median RN salary in Louisiana at $76,650. New nurses in the 10th percentile can expect to earn around $60,720, while experienced RNs in the 90th percentile can make up to $101,650 annually. Metropolitan areas like New Orleans-Metairie offer higher salaries, with a median of $81,400, while rural regions like Hammond and Lake Charles tend to have lower wages, closer to $71,200 and $68,550, respectively. This data can help prospective nurses make informed decisions about where to practice based on salary expectations and the area's job availability.
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $60,720 | $76,650 | $101,650 |
| Alexandria, LA | $54,200 | $73,220 | $94,640 |
| Baton Rouge, LA | $58,280 | $75,670 | $95,690 |
| Hammond, LA | $61,390 | $71,200 | $99,380 |
| Houma-Thibodaux, LA | $53,080 | $69,180 | $93,970 |
| Lafayette, LA | $57,600 | $70,610 | $98,210 |
| Lake Charles, LA | $60,460 | $68,550 | $87,090 |
| Monroe, LA | $58,730 | $73,060 | $87,420 |
| New Orleans-Metairie, LA | $63,870 | $81,400 | $107,890 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City, LA | $63,850 | $80,090 | $124,250 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
| Area ↕ | Curr. Jobs ↕ | Proj. Jobs ↕ | New Jobs ↕ | Growth % ↕ | Avg. Ann. Openings ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| United States | 3,172,500 | 3,349,900 | 177,400 | 5.60% | 193,100 |
| Louisiana | 43,740 | 47,040 | 3,300 | 7.50% | 2,770 |
Source: Projections Central
Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.
Today’s Top Online Nursing Programs in Louisiana
EduMed’s rankings help you find the best online programs in your field. Schools are ranked based on various factors, including the number of online programs offered, the percentage of students enrolled in online courses, tuition rates, graduation rates, and financial aid. These factors are weighted to give the most emphasis to the number of online programs offered.
To learn more about our methodology, please click “About the Rankings.”
McNeese State University
Lake Charles, Louisiana
Why We Selected McNeese State University:
- McNeese State University offers a 100% online MSN program with a 100% certification rate for graduates.
- The program is ranked highly for affordability, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious students.
- McNeese boasts a 100% job placement rate for nursing graduates, ensuring career success post-graduation.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$5,147
- Average Institutional Aid$4,650
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course88%
- % of Students Receiving an Award46%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Why We Selected Northwestern State University of Louisiana:
- Northwestern State University offers a diverse range of nursing programs with experienced faculty.
- The College of Nursing is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high standards.
- Northwestern State University provides community engagement opportunities through faculty involvement in local health initiatives.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$5,180
- Average Institutional Aid$5,162
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course87%
- % of Students Receiving an Award46%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Loyola University New Orleans
New Orleans, Louisiana
Why We Selected Loyola University New Orleans:
- Loyola University New Orleans offers a partnership with Ochsner Health for enhanced clinical experiences.
- The program emphasizes Jesuit values, focusing on holistic patient care and community service.
- Loyola's nursing programs are recognized nationally for producing leaders in healthcare innovation.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$41,698
- Average Institutional Aid$28,190
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course52%
- % of Students Receiving an Award62%
- Student/Faculty Ratio14/1
Nicholls State University
Thibodaux, Louisiana
Why We Selected Nicholls State University:
- Nicholls State University offers an accelerated 8-week format for online courses.
- The program features state-of-the-art nursing labs mimicking real hospital settings.
- Faculty are expertly engaged in distance education and clinical practice, providing mentorship in specialized nursing tracks.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$4,922
- Average Institutional Aid$4,096
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course53%
- % of Students Receiving an Award50%
- Student/Faculty Ratio16/1
Louisiana State University-Alexandria
Alexandria, Louisiana
Why We Selected Louisiana State University-Alexandria:
- LSUA's nursing program offers a 100% NCLEX pass rate for recent graduates.
- The program provides specialized career tracks, including an LPN to ASN articulation track.
- LSUA's nursing curriculum emphasizes clinical judgment and evidence-based practice, ensuring well-prepared graduates.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$4,984
- Average Institutional Aid$1,709
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course78%
- % of Students Receiving an Award26%
- Student/Faculty Ratio15/1
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, Louisiana
Why We Selected University of Louisiana at Monroe:
- The ULM School of Nursing offers a broad educational foundation in history, English, science, and arts.
- The program provides clinical experiences in diverse settings, including hospitals and community care.
- The nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring quality education.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$5,788
- Average Institutional Aid$5,815
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course49%
- % of Students Receiving an Award46%
- Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Lafayette, Louisiana
Why We Selected University of Louisiana at Lafayette:
- The program offers specialized career tracks in advanced nursing practices.
- Faculty expertise in diverse nursing specialties enhances student learning experiences.
- Employer partnerships provide students with valuable networking opportunities.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$5,407
- Average Institutional Aid$5,154
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course42%
- % of Students Receiving an Award51%
- Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
Southeastern Louisiana University
Hammond, Louisiana
Why We Selected Southeastern Louisiana University:
- Southeastern Louisiana University's School of Nursing offers a direct admit program for highly qualified students.
- The program provides guaranteed admission based on specific academic criteria, ensuring a secure spot in the nursing program.
- Students benefit from a structured progression plan, completing prerequisites and nursing courses efficiently within three semesters.
Program Details
- AccreditationSACSCOC
- Average In-State Tuition$5,777
- Average Institutional Aid$3,710
- % of Students in ≥1 Online Course37%
- % of Students Receiving an Award38%
- Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘24-’25 school year.
One: Create a list of eligible schools & programs
To be eligible for ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on data pulled from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS), which was self-reported by the schools themselves.
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education
- At least one online component in a program within the ranking-subject area.
- The existence of academic counseling on campus and/or online.
- The existence of career placement services on campus and/or online.
Two: Assign weightings to eligible schools & programs
After creating the list of eligible schools, EduMed data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of metrics, which were all self-reported by the school themselves to the U.S. Department of Education and IPEDS.
The metrics are listed below in order of most- to least-heavily weighted.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system to represent this category with laptop icons.
- % in Online Ed. – Percent of total students taking at least one distance education class.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time, as self-reported by the school.
- % Receiving Award – Percent of full-time, first-time students receiving an award in 6 years.
- Avg. Inst. Aid – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
About Our Data
EduMed’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: July 2024
