Louisiana Master’s Programs Online: Finding Your Program

An Overview of Online Universities in Louisiana

Louisiana is home to several respected universities with robust online master’s offerings. Below, we highlight three accredited schools known for quality online graduate programs:

Master’s Program Specialties in Lousiana

To help you decide which master’s degree will boost your career and yield the greatest benefits, we’ve identified five high-impact fields for master’s students. The following fields of study offer a strong return on investment (ROI) and align with Louisiana’s economy and workforce needs:

1. Healthcare & Nursing

Healthcare is one of Louisiana’s fastest-growing industries, making graduate degrees in this field especially valuable. This a particularly high-growth field because hospitals and clinics across the state urgently need advanced practitioners. For example, the nurse practitioner (NP) profession is projected to grow 46% nationally, and Louisiana faces shortages in primary care. 

A Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or a related health degree (like healthcare administration) can lead to high-paying roles managing patient care or administrating health services. You’ll face strong prospects as a graduate of such a program. At the managerial level, services managers are projected to grow 29%. This additionally comes with the chance to improve public health in communities statewide.

2. Business Administration

A Master of Business Administration (MBA) remains one of the top ROI degrees in Louisiana’s diverse economy. Major sectors like energy, petrochemicals, logistics, and tourism all require skilled managers and analysts who can lead them through periods of growth. Louisiana’s business climate is indeed growing, with small businesses making up 54.5% of the workforce, and an MBA provides versatile leadership skills to capitalize on these opportunities. 

Whether you plan to lead a Baton Rouge startup or a New Orleans Fortune 500 branch, earning an online MBA can open doors across the state’s industries. Graduates often see significant salary boosts and advancement into roles like operations director, financial manager, or consultant. Many Louisiana schools offer accredited MBA programs (including LSU, Tulane, and Louisiana Tech), which ensures quality and recognition. 

3. Education & Teaching

Educators with master’s degrees are in high demand as Louisiana works to improve K-12 outcomes amid a teacher shortage. The state has one of the highest rates of uncertified teachers (9%) in the U.S., a statistic that highlights the need for more highly qualified educators and specialists. An MEd or related teaching degree can help you land a role like curriculum specialist, reading interventionist, or school administrator. These are all critical positions as districts strive to boost student performance. 

Advanced training in areas such as special education or educational leadership not only improves teaching skills but also often comes with salary increases or stipends. Louisiana supports its educators in graduate studies, too; you’ll find that many districts offer tuition assistance for teachers pursuing an MEd. Ultimately, earning a master’s in education empowers professionals to lead positive change in Louisiana’s schools while advancing their own careers.

4. Technology & Computer Science

Louisiana’s tech sector is expanding rapidly, fueled by digital media, cybersecurity initiatives, and a push to diversify the economy. Master’s degrees in fields like computer science, information technology, data science, or cybersecurity are top choices for those seeking high-growth, well-paying jobs. Nationally, tech roles are booming. In one example, information security analyst positions will grow 33% by 2032. For Louisiana, local demand is rising as New Orleans and Baton Rouge become tech hubs. 

A graduate credential in tech provides advanced skills in programming, data analytics, or network security that can set you apart in the job market. These degrees often lead to roles as software developers, data scientists, IT managers, or cybersecurity consultants, all of which are careers with strong salaries and remote work opportunities. 

5. Engineering

Engineering graduate degrees, particularly in disciplines tied to Louisiana’s key industries, offer significant value. The state’s economy is heavily powered by oil, natural gas, petrochemical manufacturing, and coastal infrastructure. An online Master of Science (MS)in Engineering in a specialty such as petroleum engineering, chemical engineering, or coastal engineering can unlock advanced technical roles in these sectors. 

By pursuing an engineering master’s, you have the chance to specialize in cutting-edge areas (such as sustainable energy, refining processes, and environmental remediation) that are increasingly important as the industry evolves. Additionally, such a degree often leads to higher-level roles and faster licensure as a professional engineer (PE).

The Importance of Accreditation

When choosing your online master’s program in Louisiana, accreditation is crucial. Accreditation means a school or program meets rigorous quality standards recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Louisiana’s colleges are primarily regionally accredited by the SACSCOC. This regional accreditation ensures your online degree will be respected by employers and eligible for licensure or doctoral admissions. 

In addition to regional accreditation, many programs carry specialized accreditation. For a breakdown of common specialized accreditations, business programs often have Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation, nursing programs may hold Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation, and education programs might have Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP) approval. These credentials signal that the curriculum and faculty meet industry-specific benchmarks, so it’s wise to always verify a master’s program’s accreditation status.

Understanding Different Online Master’s Programs Options

Online master’s programs in Louisiana come in a variety of formats to suit different needs. You’ll find full-time cohorts, part-time flexibility for working adults, programs that waive the GRE, and even accelerated tracks that can get you your degree sooner. Below is an overview of each program type and what to expect, along with examples of master’s programs from Louisiana universities:

Online Programs for Full-time Students

Full-time online master’s programs typically mirror the intensity of on-campus study, with students taking a full course load each term. As a full-time student, you can expect an immersive experience. Full-time enrollment is roughly nine credits per semester, which allows you to finish your degree in around 12 to 18 months for many programs. The upside is quicker graduation and total focus on school. 

However, balancing full-time study with work can be challenging. The study load is significant, requiring strong time management. Many popular online programs include scheduled live sessions or group projects to keep you engaged.

Example Online Programs:

• LSU Shreveport — Master of Social Work (MSW)
• Tulane University — Master of Public Health (MPH)

Online Programs for Part-time Students

Part-time online master’s programs are designed for working professionals and others who need flexibility. Studying part-time typically means taking one or two courses at a time, so you might complete the degree in two to three years. A good working balance is a prominent advantage of studying part-time, as you can continue working full-time or manage other responsibilities while in school. 

The trade-off to a part-time schedule is a longer timeline to finish your degree. Another potential hurdle is staying self-motivated over an extended period. Many Louisiana schools let online students toggle between part-time and full-time or set their own pace term by term. Part-time students still get full access to faculty, discussions, and support services, just with a lighter load. 

Example Online Programs:

• Tulane University — MS in Cybersecurity Management
• Louisiana Tech University — MS in Engineering

Online Programs with No GRE Requirement

Many online master’s programs in Louisiana no longer require the Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) for admission, focusing instead on your academic record and experience. These “no GRE” programs are ideal if standardized tests aren’t your strength or if you’re applying on short notice. Skipping the GRE saves you time and expense, and it can lower barriers for candidates with strong qualifications that shine in other ways (like a high GPA or relevant work history). 

These programs otherwise maintain the same rigor, so omitting the GRE doesn’t mean easier coursework; it simply means admissions committees take a more holistic view of your potential. Often, schools will waive the GRE for applicants meeting certain criteria. Choosing a “no GRE” program can reduce stress in the application process, but be prepared to highlight your accomplishments through recommendation letters, statements of purpose, or interviews. 

Example Online Programs:

• LSU — Online MBA
• University of New Orleans — MS in Health Care Management

Online Programs with Accelerated Timelines

Enrolling in an accelerated online master’s program means you can earn your degree faster than the traditional timeline by compressing courses or maintaining a year-round schedule. In Louisiana, these programs often feature shorter terms (five to eight weeks) with back-to-back course sequences or allow heavier course loads. 

Keep in mind that an accelerated format is intense. You’ll be focusing on one or two subjects at a time but at a rapid pace, sometimes completing a full course in under two months. This is perfect if you’re motivated and need the credential quickly for a promotion or career shift. However, accelerated programs require excellent time management skills and may not allow much breathing room. These programs also often run continuous terms (including summer) to pack in credits.

• LSU Shreveport — Accelerated Online MBA
• McNeese State University — Accelerated Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)

How Much an Online Master’s Program Could Cost

The tuition costs for online master’s programs in Louisiana vary widely based on the institution and program, but overall the state offers affordable options compared to national averages. Public universities typically have lower per-credit rates, especially for Louisiana residents, and many charge a flat online rate that is the same for in-state and out-of-state students. For example, ULM’s online graduate tuition is about $500 per credit for all students. Private universities like Tulane are more expensive at around $1,600 per credit but often come with strong reputations and networking opportunities. 

When budgeting, consider the number of credits required and any additional fees. Some programs include all fees in the per-credit cost, while others add technology or program fees. Online learners can often save on expenses like commuting or campus housing, and many Louisiana schools provide the same financial aid for online students as on-campus students.

To give a better picture of what you may pay for your chosen program, the table below displays three online master’s programs in Louisiana and their associated costs:

Online Master’s Programs in Louisiana: Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need to live in Louisiana to enroll or get in-state tuition for an online program?

A: Most Louisiana online master’s programs accept students from anywhere in the U.S., regardless of their residency. These programs also often charge a flat online tuition rate to their distance learners. For example, LSUS’s online MBA offers the same per-credit tuition to all U.S. students. Always check each university’s policy, as some public schools offer “e-rate” tuition waivers so that online out-of-state students pay near in-state rates. 

In many of Louisiana’s online programs, you can complete coursework 100% remotely. While Louisiana residents might qualify for certain local scholarships or lower public tuition, many online programs are competitively priced for out-of-state students too. 

Q: Are online master’s students in Louisiana eligible for financial aid and scholarships?

A: Yes, accredited online master’s programs qualify for federal financial aid just like on-campus programs. As long as you’re enrolled in a degree-seeking program and meet credit hour requirements, you can apply for federal student loans by filing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). There is additionally a variety of scholarships for online master’s students you may qualify for, so be sure to research these.

Louisiana universities also extend their institutional scholarships and grants to online graduate students. For instance, Tulane offers merit scholarships to online MPH and MHA students. Some schools have scholarships specifically for online or adult learners. The key to graduating without debt is to explore all options: talk to your school’s financial aid office and search their website for graduate scholarship opportunities.

Q: What support services can online students expect from Louisiana universities?

A: Online students at Louisiana schools have access to comprehensive support, comparable to on-campus services. Universities recognize that remote learners need robust resources. You can expect academic advising, financial aid counseling, library access, and tutoring or writing help delivered virtually. 

Most programs also provide a dedicated online coordinator or success coach to assist with course scheduling, tech issues, and staying on track. For example, the University of Louisiana Monroe emphasizes its caring community and support network for online learners. Career services for your post-graduation job search are typically available remotely too. Taking advantage of résumé reviews, virtual career fairs, and alumni mentoring can all help land you that job you’re striving for. 

Don’t forget the support of your peers. Online classes often use discussion boards or group projects so you can build your network and collaborate with classmates. Some programs even have online student organizations or honor societies. For instance, LSU Online students can join the Omega Nu Lambda honor society for online learners. 

Q: Will my diploma or transcript indicate that my degree was earned online?

A: In most cases, no. Your diploma will look the same as any other. Louisiana universities generally do not distinguish online degrees from on-campus degrees on transcripts or diplomas, so your degree will not say “online” on it. For example, ULM confirms that the same degree is granted for online programs and it does not specify that coursework was completed online. 

In most cases, employers and others viewing your credentials will simply see the degree and the graduation date. The only exception might be if a program has a unique title (like “Online Executive MBA” as a specific program name).

Of course, you can always discuss your online learning experience in job interviews as a positive, highlighting skills like time management and digital collaboration. However, your actual documents won’t likely out you as an online student. 

Q: What are the career prospects for graduates of Louisiana’s online master’s programs?

A: Graduating with a master’s degree from a Louisiana online program can significantly boost your career opportunities. Advanced degrees are highly regarded by employers in the state’s key industries. Many fields, such as the education, healthcare, engineering, and business fields covered earlier in this guide, often require or prefer a master’s for higher-level roles. 

Another positive note is that the outcomes for online students are on par with campus students. You gain the same knowledge and alumni status, which can open doors. Universities often report strong job placement rates for their online graduate programs. For example, Tulane’s School of Public Health notes that 99.7% of its graduates (including both online and on-campus learners) are employed, volunteering, or pursuing further education within one year. 

Louisiana’s tight-knit professional communities also value local degrees, so earning your master’s from a known Louisiana institution can tap you into alumni networks in the region. Additionally, the flexibility of an online program allows many students to keep working and advance in their current jobs even before graduating.