Louisiana State University

Quick Facts about Louisiana State University

• Type: Public
• Students: 42,016
• International: 10%
• Campus: Urban
• Language: English
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 20:1
• Intakes: January, August, May

About Louisiana State University

Academics

LSU offers a comprehensive range of over 330 undergraduate programs, 70 master's, and more than 50 doctoral programs across 15 schools and colleges. Notable programs include Petroleum Engineering, which is ranked among the top 10 nationally, and Landscape Architecture, consistently ranked number one. The E. J. Ourso College of Business is recognized for its programs in Finance, Accounting, and Management, and the College of Engineering offers strong programs in Chemical, Civil, and Petroleum Engineering. LSU is classified as an R1 institution, indicating very high research activity, fostering a hands-on approach to learning and problem-solving.

International Students

LSU is home to a diverse international student body, with approximately 1,493 international students from over 108 countries. The International Student Association (ISA) and the Office of Global Engagement provide support services, cultural events, and a welcoming environment for international students, including events like International Fusion and Global Tailgates. While the majority of students are from Louisiana, LSU attracts students from across the United States and around 80 countries. English language proficiency can be demonstrated through tests like TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo.

Campus & Location

Located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana's capital city, LSU's campus is situated in a vibrant area known for its rich culture, diverse culinary scene, and historical landmarks. The city offers a mix of urban amenities and outdoor recreational opportunities, with over 180 parks and a revitalized downtown featuring museums, art galleries, and the Mississippi River Levee Path. Nearby attractions include the Louisiana State Capitol, the USS Kidd Veterans Memorial, and the Louisiana Art & Science Museum. Baton Rouge boasts a lower cost of living compared to the national average, making it an affordable place to reside.

Career Outcomes

LSU graduates demonstrate strong career outcomes, with an 81.6% outcome rate, and 59.87% of students working and 19.33% pursuing continuing education. The average annual salary for LSU graduates is around $56,999. The university's Olinde Career Center provides extensive career services, including career counseling, resume workshops, interview preparation, and job search assistance through platforms like Handshake. LSU maintains strong industry connections, particularly through its E. J. Ourso College of Business and College of Agriculture, offering students practical learning opportunities and networking with potential employers like Deloitte, EY, IBM, and ExxonMobil.

Information for International Students at Louisiana State University

Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, United States welcomes international students, with 10% of the student body coming from abroad.

• 10% of students are international
• Visa support available
• On-campus work allowed
• Student housing available
• Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for Louisiana State University

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Louisiana State University:

• IELTS minimum: 6.5
• TOEFL minimum: 79
• Duolingo minimum: 110
• GPA minimum: 3
• Application fee: $50
• Selectivity: Open (60%+)
• Application deadline: Fall 2025: April 15, 2025; Spring 2025: October 1, 2024; Summer 2025: March 15, 2025

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Programs at Louisiana State University (26 programs)

Louisiana State University offers 26 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (16)

• Accounting (BS) — 48 months · English
  This program provides students with a strong foundation in financial accounting, managerial accounting, auditing, and taxation, preparing them for careers in public accounting, industry, or government.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Auditor, Tax Accountant, Financial Analyst, Controller
• Chemical Engineering (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
  This program focuses on the design, operation, and optimization of chemical processes, covering topics such as thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and reaction kinetics.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Research and Development Engineer
• Finance (BS) — 48 months · English
  Students gain expertise in financial markets, investments, corporate finance, and financial institutions, preparing them for careers in banking, wealth management, or corporate finance.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Investment Banker, Portfolio Manager, Financial Planner
• Biological Sciences (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
  Students explore the fundamental principles of biology, including genetics, cell biology, ecology, and evolution, preparing them for careers in research, healthcare, or environmental science.
  Field: Science
  Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Scientist, Healthcare Professional, Environmental Scientist
• Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
  Students learn the theoretical foundations of computing and practical skills in software development, algorithms, data structures, and artificial intelligence.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, Network Engineer
• Mechanical Engineering (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
  Students learn to design, analyze, and manufacture mechanical systems, covering areas such as thermodynamics, mechanics of materials, and machine design.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Design Engineer, Manufacturing Engineer
• Civil Engineering (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
  The Civil Engineering program focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects, including roads, bridges, buildings, and water systems, emphasizing sustainability and safety.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Project Manager, Urban Planner
• Architecture (BArch) — 60 months · English · STEM
  This professional degree program integrates design, history, theory, and technology to prepare students for careers in architectural practice and related fields.
  Field: Architecture
  Career outcomes: Architect, Urban Planner, Construction Manager, Interior Designer
• History (BA) — 48 months · English
  The History program offers a deep exploration of past events, societies, and cultures, developing critical thinking, research, and analytical skills applicable to various professions.
  Field: Humanities
  Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator, Educator, Policy Analyst
• Psychology (BS) — 48 months · English
  Students study human behavior and mental processes, including cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and abnormal psychology.
  Field: Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Counselor, Researcher, Human Resources Specialist, Social Worker
• English (BA) — 48 months · English
  This program cultivates critical thinking, analytical reading, and effective writing skills through the study of literature, rhetoric, and cultural theory.
  Field: Humanities
  Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Teacher, Communications Specialist
• Mass Communication (BA) — 48 months · English
  This program explores various aspects of media, including journalism, public relations, advertising, and digital media, focusing on effective communication strategies and media ethics.
  Field: Communication
  Career outcomes: Journalist, Public Relations Specialist, Advertising Executive, Social Media Manager
• Music (BM) — 48 months · English
  This program offers comprehensive training in music performance, composition, theory, and history, preparing students for careers as musicians, educators, or in related arts fields.
  Field: Arts
  Career outcomes: Musician, Music Educator, Composer, Arts Administrator
• Kinesiology (BS) — 48 months · English · STEM
  This program focuses on the study of human movement, performance, and function, covering exercise physiology, biomechanics, motor learning, and sports psychology.
  Field: Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Physical Therapist, Occupational Therapist, Athletic Trainer, Fitness Professional
• Political Science (BA) — 48 months · English
  This program examines political systems, theories, and behaviors, preparing students for careers in government, law, public policy, or international relations.
  Field: Social Sciences
  Career outcomes: Policy Analyst, Lobbyist, Government Official, Campaign Manager
• Nursing (BSN) — 48 months · English · STEM
  The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program prepares students for professional nursing practice, focusing on patient care, health promotion, disease prevention, and healthcare systems.
  Field: Health Sciences
  Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Clinical Nurse Specialist, Public Health Nurse

Master Programs (6)

• Master of Science in Computer Science (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
  This program offers advanced study in areas such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and software engineering, with options for thesis or project work.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Senior Software Engineer, AI/ML Engineer, Research Scientist, Data Architect
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 24 months · English
  This program develops advanced business acumen, leadership skills, and strategic thinking across various functional areas, preparing graduates for management and executive roles.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Business Consultant, Marketing Manager, Operations Manager, CEO
• Master of Science in Civil Engineering (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
  This program provides advanced knowledge in structural engineering, transportation engineering, environmental engineering, or water resources engineering.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Project Manager, Consulting Engineer
• Master of Arts in English (MA) — 24 months · English
  This program offers in-depth study of literary theory, specific literary periods, and critical approaches, preparing students for further doctoral work or careers requiring advanced analytical and writing skills.
  Field: Humanities
  Career outcomes: Educator, Editor, Content Strategist, Academic Researcher
• Master of Science in Analytics (MS) — 18 months · English · STEM
  The MS in Analytics program focuses on data analysis, statistical modeling, and machine learning techniques to extract insights from complex datasets and inform business decisions.
  Field: Business
  Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Business Analyst, Analytics Consultant, Statistician
• Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering (MS) — 24 months · English · STEM
  This program provides advanced knowledge in reservoir engineering, drilling and production, and petroleum geology, preparing students for leadership roles in the oil and gas industry.
  Field: Engineering
  Career outcomes: Petroleum Engineer, Reservoir Engineer, Drilling Engineer, Production Engineer

PhD Programs (4)

• Doctor of Philosophy in Biological Sciences (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  This program emphasizes original research in diverse biological fields, including molecular biology, ecology, evolutionary biology, and neuroscience, leading to a dissertation.
  Field: Science
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Biotechnology Specialist, Environmental Consultant
• Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD) — 60 months · English
  This program prepares scholars and leaders in education through advanced coursework and original research in areas such as educational leadership, curriculum and instruction, or educational psychology.
  Field: Education
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Educational Administrator, Policy Analyst, Curriculum Developer
• Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  This research-intensive program focuses on advanced topics in analytical, inorganic, organic, physical, or polymer chemistry, culminating in a dissertation based on original research.
  Field: Science
  Career outcomes: Research Scientist, University Professor, Industrial Chemist, Pharmaceutical Scientist
• Doctor of Philosophy in Physics (PhD) — 60 months · English · STEM
  This program offers advanced theoretical and experimental research opportunities in areas like astrophysics, condensed matter physics, nuclear physics, and high-energy physics.
  Field: Science
  Career outcomes: Research Physicist, University Professor, Data Scientist, Engineer

Scholarships & Tuition at Louisiana State University

✅ Louisiana State University offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of Louisiana State University

• National Ranking: #179 in United States
• QS World University Ranking: #851
• Times Higher Education (THE): #601
• Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU): #401
• Ranking tier: Research University
• Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at Louisiana State University

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• Disability support available
• Campus type: Urban

Key Highlights

• Flagship institution, land-grant university
• R1 research institution
• Top-ranked Petroleum Engineering
• Concurrent Civil and Common Law
• Diverse international student body
• Baton Rouge, vibrant capital city

Accreditation

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

Notable Alumni

• Billy Cannon
• Joe Burrow
• Mike Johnson
• Odell Beckham Jr.
• Don Lemon

Frequently Asked Questions about Louisiana State University

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