Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Louisiana 2025
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
147 computer science graduates annually, 66% graduation rate
Southern University and A & M College
82 computer science graduates annually, 75% graduation rate
Tulane University of Louisiana
56 computer science graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
- 1.Louisiana offers 18+ accredited computer science programs across public and private universities
- 2.Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College leads with 66% graduation rate
- 3.Louisiana software developers earn median $88,760 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport
- 5.Cost of living index: 93.8% of US average (below average)
Computer Science Education in Louisiana: Overview
Louisiana offers 18 accredited computer science programs, producing approximately 639 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport, with major employers including CenturyLink, Geocent, iSeatz.
With a median software developer salary of $88,760 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 93.8% compared to the US average, Louisiana offers above-average purchasing power for tech workers.
The top computer science programs in the state are led by Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College, Southern University and A & M College, Tulane University of Louisiana, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Louisiana Computer Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College | Baton Rouge, LA | Public | $8,038 | 66% | 72.2 |
| 2 | Southern University and A & M College | Baton Rouge, LA | Public | $4,973 | 75% | 70.5 |
| 3 | Tulane University of Louisiana | New Orleans, LA | Private | $61,306 | — | 66.4 |
| 4 | University of Louisiana at Lafayette | Lafayette, LA | Public | $5,407 | 98% | 65 |
| 5 | Louisiana Tech University | Ruston, LA | Public | $6,401 | 85% | 63.2 |
| 6 | Grambling State University | Grambling, LA | Public | $5,140 | 99% | 61.3 |
| 7 | University of New Orleans | New Orleans, LA | Public | $6,090 | — | 57.3 |
| 8 | McNeese State University | Lake Charles, LA | Public | $5,147 | — | 47.7 |
| 9 | Dillard University | New Orleans, LA | Private | $19,194 | — | 43.5 |
| 10 | University of Louisiana at Monroe | Monroe, LA | Public | $5,788 | — | 43.2 |
| 11 | Southeastern Louisiana University | Hammond, LA | Public | $5,777 | — | 42.5 |
| 12 | Louisiana State University-Shreveport | Shreveport, LA | Public | $5,656 | — | 41.3 |
| 13 | Southern University at Shreveport | Shreveport, LA | Public | $2,618 | — | 39.7 |
| 14 | Loyola University New Orleans | New Orleans, LA | Private | $45,280 | — | 39 |
| 15 | Xavier University of Louisiana | New Orleans, LA | Private | $24,836 | — | 38.5 |
| 16 | Louisiana Christian University | Pineville, LA | Private | $19,590 | — | 32 |
| 17 | Baton Rouge Community College | Baton Rouge, LA | Public | $3,237 | — | 31 |
| 18 | Louisiana Delta Community College | Monroe, LA | Public | $3,214 | — | 27.8 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Louisiana: Side-by-Side
| School | Louisiana State Universit... | Southern University and... | Tulane University of... | U of Louisiana at Lafayette | Louisiana Tech |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $8,038 | $4,973 | $61,306 | $5,407 | $6,401 |
| Graduation Rate | 66% | 75% | N/A% | 98% | 85% |
| Annual Graduates | 147 | 82 | 56 | 64 | 55 |
| Acceptance Rate | 74% | 50% | 15% | 89% | 73% |
| Type | Public | Public | Private | Public | Public |
| Score | 72.2/100 | 70.5/100 | 66.4/100 | 65.0/100 | 63.2/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Louisiana
Louisiana offers 15 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College, Tulane University of Louisiana, University of Louisiana at Lafayette. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $62,132 in the Louisiana market.
A bachelor's in computer science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Science Bachelor's Programs in Louisiana
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Louisiana State Universit... | $8,038 | 66% | 147 | 72.2 |
| #2 Tulane University of... | $61,306 | N/A% | 56 | 66.4 |
| #3 U of Louisiana at Lafayette | $5,407 | 98% | 64 | 65.0 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Louisiana
For graduate study, Louisiana offers 7 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include Southern University and A & M College, Louisiana Tech University, Tulane University of Louisiana. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Louisiana reaching $115,388 or more.
Explore our complete national rankings of the best computer science master's programs for more options beyond Louisiana.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Louisiana
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Southern University and... | $4,973 | 75% | 82 | 70.5 |
| #2 Louisiana Tech | $6,401 | 85% | 21 | 54.8 |
| #3 Tulane University of... | $61,306 | N/A% | 11 | 53.3 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Louisiana
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Louisiana are at Southern University at Shreveport ($2,618/year), Louisiana Delta Community College ($3,214/year), Baton Rouge Community College ($3,237/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Louisiana's competitive tech salaries.
At Southern University at Shreveport, a 4-year degree costs approximately $10,472 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $62,132, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.4 years. See our Most Affordable Computer Science Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Louisiana (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Southern University at... | $2,618 | $10,472 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #2 Louisiana Delta Community... | $3,214 | $12,856 | 0.5 years | Public |
| #3 Baton Rouge Community... | $3,237 | $12,948 | 0.5 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Computer Science Schools in Louisiana
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer science programs in Louisiana, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
Baton Rouge, LA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,038 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 66% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 147 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 74%
- • Ranking Score: 72.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 66% graduation rate
- 147 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 72.2 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (66%), program size (147 graduates), state salary outcomes ($88,760), and selectivity (74% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
LSU offers flexible online degree programs with over 100 programs available and transferable college credit options. The university provides comprehensive graduate school support with a structured two-step admission evaluation process.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
- Transfer Friendly
Southern University and A & M College
Baton Rouge, LA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $4,973 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 75% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 82 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 50%
- • Ranking Score: 70.5 / 100
Program Strengths
- 75% graduation rate
- 82 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 70.5 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (75%), program size (82 graduates), state salary outcomes ($88,760), and selectivity (50% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Tulane University of Louisiana
New Orleans, LA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $61,306 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 56 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 15%
- • Ranking Score: 66.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 56 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 66.4 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (56 graduates), state salary outcomes ($88,760), and selectivity (15% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Tulane pairs the resources of a large research university with the benefits of a small liberal arts college, offering undergraduate research opportunities and encouraging cross-disciplinary studies across five undergraduate schools. The program offers accelerated degree programs and has a highly selective admissions process with only 8.4% acceptance rate.
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Acceptance Rate: 8.4%
Program Details
- Credits: 48 credit hours
University of Louisiana at Lafayette
Lafayette, LA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $5,407 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 98% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 64 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 89%
- • Ranking Score: 65.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 98% graduation rate
- 64 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 65.0 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (98%), program size (64 graduates), state salary outcomes ($88,760), and selectivity (89% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette's Computer Science program is accredited by ABET and offers specialized concentrations in Video Game Design & Development and Scientific Computing. The program maintains rigorous academic standards requiring a grade of 'C' or better in all core courses and provides both undergraduate and graduate degree options through the Center for Advanced Computer Studies.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Admission Prerequisites
- •Two courses in college-level differential and integral calculus (e.g., MATH 270, 301)
- •Software design and data structures (CMPS 405 or 260-261)
- •Assembly language programming (CMPS 351)
- •Discrete mathematics and logic design (CMPS 341)
- •Computer architecture (CMPS 430)
- •Programming languages (CMPS 450)
- •Operating systems (CMPS 455)
- •Databases (CMPS 460)
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.75
Program Details
- Credits: 120
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Louisiana Tech University
Ruston, LA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $6,401 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 85% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 55 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 73%
- • Ranking Score: 63.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 85% graduation rate
- 55 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 63.2 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (85%), program size (55 graduates), state salary outcomes ($88,760), and selectivity (73% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Louisiana Tech's Computer Science program offers world-class instruction with over $18 million in faculty-led research grants and strong industry partnerships. Students gain hands-on experience through research in state-of-the-art labs and real-world projects with optional concentrations in emerging areas like Cloud Computing and Cybersecurity.
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Louisiana with strong job growth.
Full Stack Developer
SOC 15-1252Full Stack Developer opportunities in Louisiana with strong job growth.
Systems Architect
SOC 15-1252Systems Architect opportunities in Louisiana with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Louisiana with strong job growth.
Technical Lead
SOC 15-1252Technical Lead opportunities in Louisiana with strong job growth.
Computer Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Massachusetts
Illinois
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Shreveport
- You're seeking lower cost of living (93.8% of US average)
- You want to work at companies like CenturyLink or Geocent
- You prefer Louisiana's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Louisiana's 18)
- You're looking for major coastal tech hub concentration
Computer Science in Louisiana FAQ
Based on 18 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Louisiana-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Louisiana salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.