Overview
Founded in 1860, Louisiana State University is the flagship institution of the LSU System and serves as the state's primary public research university. Originally established as a military academy, LSU has grown into a major research institution with Carnegie R1 classification, known for its strengths in petroleum engineering, agriculture, coastal and environmental studies, and mass communication. The university's Baton Rouge campus sits along the Mississippi River and has played a significant role in Louisiana's economic and cultural development for over 160 years.
At a Glance
| Type | Public Research |
| Location | Baton Rouge, Louisiana |
| Founded | 1860 |
| Total students | 38,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 18:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 72% |
| Graduation rate | 68% |
| Average starting salary | $55,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $12,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $29,000 |
| Room & board | $12,500 |
| Average financial aid | $11,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 80% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1120-1300 |
| ACT range | 23-29 |
| Average GPA | 3.55 |
| Regular deadline | May 1 |
Top Programs
- Petroleum Engineering
- Mass Communication
- Agriculture
- Coastal & Environmental Science
- Business Administration
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.