healthcare

Best Nursing Schools in Louisiana for 2025

Goodwork author

02 May 2025 — 2 min read

Top Nursing Schools in Louisiana (2025)

1. Northwestern State University of Louisiana

NCLEX Pass Rate: BSN – 96.7%; ASN – 98.9%
In-State Tuition: $5,180
Out-of-State Tuition: $15,968
Graduation Rate: 39%
Programs Offered: ASN, BSN, ABSN, LPN to ASN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP
Highlights: Pioneered Louisiana's first public BSN and MSN programs. Offers a Military Medic-Paramedic to RN pathway and emphasizes community healthcare advocacy. Northwestern State University School of Nursing+4Incredible Health+4NursingEducation+4

2. Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady University (FranU)

NCLEX Pass Rate: 100%
Tuition: $8,679.30 (uniform for all students)
Graduation Rate: 59%
Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, Accelerated BSN, MSN, DNP
Highlights: Student-centered approach with a Catholic Social Justice framework. Offers both in-person and online programs, including a fully online RN to BSN. Incredible Health+1Incredible Health+1

3. University of Louisiana at Lafayette

NCLEX Pass Rate: 98.55%
In-State Tuition: $11,150
Out-of-State Tuition: $24,878
Graduation Rate: 50%
Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, Post Graduate Certificates
Highlights: Hybrid BSN program with accredited simulation facilities. Operates a student-led clinic offering community health services.

4. Nicholls State University

NCLEX Pass Rate: 92.17%
In-State Tuition: $7,976
Out-of-State Tuition: $10,869
Graduation Rate: 46%
Programs Offered: LPN to BSN, BSN, RN to BSN, MSN
Highlights: Recognizes prior LPN and RN experience in bridge programs. Emphasizes cultural competence and community service. Nursing Schools Almanac NursingEducation

5. McNeese State University

NCLEX Pass Rate: 98.28%
In-State Tuition: $9,000
Out-of-State Tuition: $14,000
Graduation Rate: 44%
Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN
Highlights: Offers advanced simulation labs and a supportive learning environment. Home to a chapter of Sigma Theta Tau International Honor Society of Nursing. Incredible Health

6. Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center (LSUHSC) – New Orleans

NCLEX Pass Rate: Data not specified in the provided sources.
Tuition: Varies by program; additional fees apply.
Programs Offered: BSN, RN to BSN, MSN, DNP, PhD, Nurse Practitioner tracks
Highlights: Only nursing school in Louisiana within an academic health sciences center. Offers a nationally accredited simulation center and a range of advanced nursing programs.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Nursing Program

Location: Consider proximity to clinical sites and personal commuting preferences.
Tuition and Financial Aid: Evaluate the total cost, including additional fees, and explore available scholarships and financial aid options.
NCLEX Pass Rates: High pass rates indicate strong program quality and exam preparation.
Program Offerings: Ensure the school offers the specific nursing program that aligns with your career goals.
Graduation Rates: Higher graduation rates may reflect better student support and program effectiveness.

Embarking on a nursing career in Louisiana offers a wealth of opportunities across various esteemed institutions. Carefully assess each program's offerings and align them with your professional aspirations to make an informed decision.

For more information on nursing programs and career opportunities, visit GoodWork.