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
| Area ↕ | 10th Percentile ↕ | Median ↕ | 90th Percentile ↕ |
|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana | $62,830 | $78,880 | $111,810 |
| Alexandria, LA | $59,980 | $78,740 | $105,410 |
| Baton Rouge, LA | $63,450 | $78,210 | $99,520 |
| Hammond, LA | $63,610 | $75,210 | $103,370 |
| Houma-Bayou Cane-Thibodaux, LA | $55,180 | $72,690 | $95,590 |
| Lafayette, LA | $61,710 | $76,550 | $112,130 |
| Lake Charles, LA | $64,230 | $78,240 | $117,310 |
| Monroe, LA | $58,800 | $75,440 | $94,630 |
| New Orleans-Metairie, LA | $65,870 | $81,920 | $125,020 |
| Shreveport-Bossier City, LA | $65,410 | $83,200 | $130,920 |
| Slidell-Mandeville-Covington, LA | $62,540 | $76,920 | $96,990 |
Source: Registered Nurses, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2024, 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.”
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $10,943 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Dillard University
- Dillard University’s nursing program offers a pioneering minor in healthcare advocacy, uniquely designed to meet evolving healthcare trends and student needs.
- Students benefit from an advanced high-tech simulation laboratory featuring specialty-specific labs, including Women’s Health and Maternal Newborn simulation spaces, enhancing practical clinical skills.
- The program includes a supportive Nursing Alumni Program (DUNAP) providing mentorship through professional nurse networks and peer mentors for student success and career development.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $10,943 Avg. Aid Amount
- 51% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 11/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Northwestern State University of Louisiana
Natchitoches, LAProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,314 Avg. Aid Amount
- 45% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Northwestern State University of Louisiana
- Northwestern State University of Louisiana’s Nursing program boasts a 99% first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate for both ASN and BSN graduates, significantly exceeding state requirements.
- The Military Medic-Paramedic to RN pathway accelerates completion by leveraging paramedics’ clinical skills, enabling program completion in just four semesters.
- The program offers flexible course delivery with many online options alongside in-person learning, accommodating diverse student needs and schedules.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,314 Avg. Aid Amount
- 45% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Louisiana at Monroe
Monroe, LAProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $7,206 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Louisiana at Monroe
- The Kitty DeGree School of Nursing offers an accelerated RN to BS program that grants 39 credit hours for current Louisiana RN licenses, enabling faster degree completion.
- Students gain hands-on clinical experience in hospital and community settings, supervised by dedicated faculty passionate about nursing education.
- The nursing program is accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education, ensuring high-quality education and eligibility for broad career opportunities.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $7,206 Avg. Aid Amount
- 54% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 16/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Louisiana Christian University
Pineville, LAProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $9,497 Avg. Aid Amount
- 28% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Louisiana Christian University
- LCU’s Accelerated BSN pathway allows students with a prior bachelor’s degree to complete their nursing degree in as little as 16 months without requiring the TEAS exam.
- The School of Nursing features renowned and exceptional faculty who are passionate about teaching and preparing future nurses, ensuring high-quality education.
- The program offers a hands-on learning environment combined with smaller class sizes and dedicated Success Specialists to enhance student success.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $9,497 Avg. Aid Amount
- 28% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 10/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Loyola University New Orleans
New Orleans, LAProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $31,508 Avg. Aid Amount
- 62% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Loyola University New Orleans
- Loyola’s Nursing program offers guaranteed clinical placements through a strong partnership with Ochsner Health, providing hands-on experience in world-class medical facilities.
- The program features a state-of-the-art Loyola Ochsner Nursing Simulation Lab, enabling students to practice clinical skills in a safe, realistic environment from early in their studies.
- Students benefit from small faculty-to-student ratios (1:10 in the accelerated program) and individualized success coaching, ensuring personalized academic support and mentorship throughout their nursing education.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $31,508 Avg. Aid Amount
- 62% Graduation Rate
- Private School Type
- 13/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,975 Avg. Aid Amount
- 58% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 22/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Louisiana Tech University
- The Louisiana Tech Nursing program boasts a 100% NCLEX pass rate for graduates, reflecting exceptional academic preparation and licensure success.
- Students benefit from strong faculty partnerships with healthcare agencies across North Louisiana, providing cutting-edge clinical experiences and high-quality hands-on training.
- The program has received Louisiana’s Undergraduate Nursing Program of the Year award twice, demonstrating recognized excellence and a commitment to professional nursing education.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,975 Avg. Aid Amount
- 58% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 22/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Lafayette, LAProgram Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $4,663 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected University of Louisiana at Lafayette
- The LSU Alexandria Nursing program offers a 100% online RN to BSN option designed for working RNs to complete their degree in as little as 12-18 months through seven-week accelerated courses.
- The program provides personalized academic advising to help each student develop a tailored curriculum plan and navigate the nursing program application and progression process efficiently.
- LSUA's nursing curriculum is accredited by ACEN and emphasizes leadership development, critical thinking, and evidence-based practice to enhance graduates’ eligibility for supervisory and graduate-level roles.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $4,663 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $4,590 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected McNeese State University
- McNeese’s Nursing program offers a 100% certification pass rate for family nurse practitioners and psychiatric mental health nurse practitioners, demonstrating exceptional student success and licensure preparedness.
- The program provides fully online MSN degree options with flexible pacing, allowing students to earn their degree from home while receiving full faculty support and access to advanced clinical facilities.
- Students benefit from a close-knit learning environment where faculty expertise and personalized mentorship ensure that no student is left behind, fostering strong connections and professional growth.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $4,590 Avg. Aid Amount
- 40% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 18/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,556 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Nicholls State University
- Nicholls State University's Nursing program offers hospital-like simulation labs with advanced technology and electronic mannequins, providing immersive hands-on training that prepares students effectively for clinical work.
- The program boasts strong connections to local healthcare providers, facilitating high clinical placement rates and enhanced job opportunities soon after graduation.
- Faculty members are highly approachable and supportive, using a variety of engaging teaching methods and offering timely help, which contributes to student success and deeper learning.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $5,556 Avg. Aid Amount
- 50% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 17/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,708 Avg. Aid Amount
- 28% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 25/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Why We Selected Grambling State University
- Grambling State University's Nursing program offers an accelerated RN-BSN pathway that allows registered nurses to complete their Bachelor of Science in Nursing in as few as three semesters with only 30 credit hours required for those who meet criteria.
- Students gain access to Louisiana’s premier working nursing professionals, ensuring top-tier clinical exposure and practical training opportunities throughout their studies.
- The Graduate Nursing program focuses on advanced specialization with curriculum designed using Patricia Benner’s Novice to Expert framework, preparing students for competence in Family Nurse Practitioner and Pediatric Nurse Practitioner roles.
Program Details
- SACSCOC Accreditation
- $2,708 Avg. Aid Amount
- 28% Graduation Rate
- Public School Type
- 25/1 Student/Faculty Ratio
Base Methodology for EduMed’s “Best Online College Rankings” for the ‘25-’26 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 and career counseling 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*.
- Tuition – Average in-state tuition for undergraduate students studying full-time.
- Online Programs – Number of online programs, either partially- or fully-online, in the relevant subject area.
- Avg. Aid Amount – Average amount of institutional grant aid awarded to full-time, first-time undergraduates.
- Students w/ Aid – Percent of full-time, first-time students undergraduates awarded institutional aid.
- Online Enrollment – Percent of undergraduate students taking at least one distance education class.
- Graduation Rate – Percent of full-time, first-time receiving an award in 6 years.
- Student/Faculty Ratio – The number of students per faculty member.
*Metrics #2-5 and #6-7 were equally weighted.
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 2025
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