University of Louisville

Louisiana State University

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Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana, United States

Introduction | Global Rank | US Rank | State Rank | History | Popular Courses & Fees | Specialty | Research | Campus Life | Alumni Network | Academic Requirements

Introduction

Louisiana State University (LSU) is a public land-grant research university in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Established in 1860, LSU is the flagship university of the Louisiana State University System and one of the largest and most prestigious institutions in the Southern United States. The university is well known for its strong academic programs, athletics, research initiatives, and vibrant campus life.

With a sprawling 2,000-acre campus featuring Italian Renaissance-style architecture, LSU provides students with state-of-the-art facilities, diverse student organizations, and a dynamic learning environment.

Global, US, and State Rankings

LSU consistently ranks among the top universities in the U.S. and the world. Here are its latest rankings:

Global Rank (2025)

  • QS World University Rankings: #751-800
  • Times Higher Education (THE) World Rankings: #601-800
  • Shanghai Ranking (ARWU): #501-600

US Rank (2025)

According to U.S. News & World Report (2025):

  • #179 in National Universities
  • #97 in Top Public Schools
  • #134 in Best Value Schools

State Rank (Louisiana)

  • #1 Public University in Louisiana
  • Competes with Tulane University (a private institution) as one of the top schools in the state.

History

LSU was founded in 1860 as the Louisiana State Seminary of Learning & Military Academy near Pineville, Louisiana. Over time, the university underwent significant changes:

  • 1869 – Moved to Baton Rouge and became Louisiana State University.
  • 1926 – The main campus was formally dedicated, featuring over 250 buildings designed in Italian Renaissance-style architecture.
  • 1965 – LSU became a major research university, expanding its programs in science, engineering, and medicine.
  • Present – LSU is recognized as a leading research institution, particularly in coastal and environmental sciences, engineering, and business.

Popular Courses & Fees

LSU offers over 330 programs across undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral levels. Some of its most popular programs include:

Undergraduate Programs

  • Business & Management – 22% of graduates
  • Engineering (Mechanical, Civil, Petroleum, Electrical, Industrial, etc.) – 10% of graduates
  • Biological & Biomedical Sciences – 9% of graduates
  • Education – 9% of graduates
  • Social Sciences (Political Science, Sociology, Psychology) – 7% of graduates
  • Mass Communication & Journalism – 6% of graduates

Graduate & Doctoral Programs

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
  • Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM)
  • Ph.D. in Engineering & Environmental Sciences
  • Juris Doctor (JD) – Paul M. Hebert Law Center

Tuition Fees (2024-2025)

LSU is known for offering affordable education compared to other large universities in the U.S.

  • In-State Tuition & Fees: $11,954 per year
  • Out-of-State Tuition & Fees: $28,631 per year
  • Average Cost for Food & Housing: $14,296 per year
  • Total Estimated Cost (Out-of-State Students): ~$43,000 per year

International students may have additional costs such as visa processing and health insurance.

Specialty & Research

LSU is a Carnegie R1 Research University, meaning it has very high research activity. Some of the university’s specialties include:

  • Petroleum & Chemical Engineering – One of the top programs in the U.S., with strong industry ties to ExxonMobil and Shell.
  • Veterinary Medicine – The LSU School of Veterinary Medicine is among the best in the country.
  • Coastal & Environmental Sciences – LSU leads research in hurricane prediction, climate change, and coastal restoration.
  • Business & Finance – The E.J. Ourso College of Business is highly ranked, with strong programs in finance, entrepreneurship, and accounting.
  • Mass Communication & Journalism – The Manship School of Mass Communication has produced successful media professionals.

LSU operates over 800 research projects funded by agencies such as:

  • NASA
  • National Institutes of Health (NIH)
  • National Science Foundation (NSF)

Campus Life

LSU provides a vibrant and engaging campus environment, offering students numerous opportunities for involvement.

Student Life & Organizations

  • Over 500 student organizations, including academic clubs, cultural groups, and sports teams.
  • Greek Life: LSU has a strong fraternity and sorority presence, offering leadership and networking opportunities.
  • International Student Organizations – Support groups for international students, including cultural events and mentorship.

Housing & Dining

LSU offers a variety of residence halls and apartment-style housing:

  • Herget Hall & Blake Hall – Popular for first-year students.
  • Kirby Smith Hall – Newly renovated with modern amenities.
  • Nicholson Gateway Apartments – Luxury apartment-style living for upperclassmen.

Dining options include cafeterias, food courts, and international cuisine, with vegetarian and vegan choices available.

Athletics & Traditions

  • LSU Tigers compete in NCAA Division I (Southeastern Conference – SEC).
  • Tiger Stadium (“Death Valley”) – One of the most intimidating college football stadiums in the country.
  • Live Mascot – Mike the Tiger – A real Bengal Tiger kept in a state-of-the-art habitat on campus.
  • LSU Homecoming, Gumbo Cook-Off, and the LSU Parade – Popular traditions that bring students together.

Alumni Network

LSU has a strong alumni network with over 250,000 graduates worldwide. Notable alumni include:

  • Shaquille O’Neal – NBA Hall of Famer
  • James Carville – Political strategist
  • Donna Brazile – Political analyst
  • Linda Thomas-Greenfield – U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations
  • Odell Beckham Jr. – NFL Super Bowl Champion
  • Lolo Jones – Olympic athlete

LSU provides career support, mentorship, and networking events for alumni and current students.

Academic Requirements

LSU has a moderately selective admissions process with an acceptance rate of 74%.

Standard Admissions Requirements

  • High School GPA: Minimum 3.0 (average admitted student GPA: 3.8)
  • SAT Score: 1150-1330
  • ACT Score: 24-29
  • English Proficiency (International Students):
    • TOEFL: 79 (iBT)
    • IELTS: 6.5
    • PTE: 53
    • Duolingo: 105

Application Deadlines

  • Fall Semester: April 15
  • Spring Semester: October 1

LSU follows a rolling admissions policy, meaning applications are reviewed as they are received.

Conclusion

Louisiana State University (LSU) is an affordable, research-intensive, and vibrant university located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. With strong academic programs, a dynamic campus life, and extensive research opportunities, LSU is a top choice for students seeking quality education in the Southern U.S.