15 BEST VALUE COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES IN LOUISIANA

There were a lot of worthy contenders for the position of top university in Louisiana, but in the end, this Louisiana university wins out. With a $440,000 20-year net ROI, the school has the top return on investment in the entire state! And this isn't so surprising, considering the school's targeted focus on some of the country's most in-demand majors, including ten different engineering specialties - nanosystems, cyber, and biomedical engineering among them. In addition, immersive programs like Living with the Lab and Living with Cyber offer one-of-a-kind opportunities to tech savvy students, proving that LA Tech is one of the best Louisiana colleges for individuals who are serious about their future.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette stands out among Louisiana universities in describing its campus culture, noting that UL students are "smart, spirited, and seeking solutions." The campus also lacks the pretention and vanity sometimes associated with large institutions; students prefer to be authentic and friendly, letting their accomplishments speak for themselves. UL also goes above and beyond in its mission to teach the real meaning of "joie de vivre," which means living life fully and deeply. This top Louisiana college wants you to do more than earn a living, instead grasping for a higher level of satisfaction that includes community service, lasting friendships, and of course the lively "Ragin' Cajun" spirit.

As far as independent schools, this Louisiana university is by far one of the best universities in Louisiana - even the entire southern region. The prestigious school has some of the best stats measured on this list, including a selective 28% acceptance rate, far above average 83% graduation rate, and quite respectable $280k ROI. Although its annual net price reaches above that of some of its competitors, its unparalleled academics and valuable connections make the price worth serious consideration. Tulane has a particular strength in research and is even part of the Association of American Universities, which (despite its misleading title) includes several of the leading research institutions in both the U.S. and Canada.

There's something special about the city of New Orleans - and not just because of the annual Mardi Gras celebration. New Orleans has a rich cultural heritage that is apparent 365 days a year, from its lively music scene to its diverse ethnic cuisine. And thanks to this Louisiana university, you could have the chance to add awesome academics to the list of benefits the city confers upon its residents. Prepare to work hard in order to be invited to campus - the 44% acceptance rate suggests that the student body is anything but self-selected - but your commitment will pay off: Pay Scale reports an average 20-year ROI of more than $300,000!

This Louisiana university has about 7,500 students and approximately 300 academic staff, so what could it offer over a large state school like LSU or the University of Louisiana? In addition to its extreme affordability, McNeese State University has built a reputation as a regional leader in higher education. It regularly places as one of the top colleges in the South, according to U.S. News and has built up an enviable list of campus resources. Agricultural students can benefit from the 503-acre MSU farm, while nature-lovers might check out the Louisiana Environmental Research Center.

As the flagship university of the state, LSU brings plenty to the table in terms of quantity: 30,000 students, a 650-acre campus on the Mississippi River, more than 20 NCAA Division I sports teams, and research facilities that include land grant, sea-grant, and space-grant benefits. And yet despite its substantial stature, LSU won't feel overwhelming. The school is focused on student engagement and looks to make sure every student gets the attention he or she needs. This approach seems to work well for current learners and alumni alike - the 20-year net ROI is over $400k, according to Pay Scale!

One way of defining value in a school is based on the college's ability to offer its students a lot for just a little financial investment. The University of Louisiana at Monroe knocks it out of the park when it comes to low cost, but it also earns high marks for its litany of opportunities and resources on campus. This cheap college in Louisiana houses four distinct academic schools - including one for graduate studies - as well as more than 150 recognized student organizations. If you're itching to get involved, try joining the Campus Activities Board, participating in Greek Life, or honing your skills through the Leadership Workshop Series.

Southern University at New Orleans, or "SUNO," is on a serious mission: to be one of the premier urban universities in the United States and to graduate students who are prepared to make real contributions to society. As another historically black college on this ranking, SUNO seeks to provide top caliber academic opportunities and personalized instruction to African Americans. Degree options cover all the main areas of the liberal arts and sciences, including Biology, English, History, Mathematics, Business, and Education. This affordable college in Louisiana also offers a few graduate options, including its first doctoral degree - a social work program!

It seems that Louisiana is simply overflowing with unique universities - each of which offers something distinctive to local residents. As the only HBCU college system in the United States, this Louisiana college is yet another example of a school that is carving out its own place in higher education. Its five campuses include locations in New Orleans, Shreveport, and Baton Rouge, as well as a standalone Law Center and a land grant Agricultural Research and Extension Center. The Baton Rouge campus in particular deserves special recognition on this list for its low tuition rate and promising return on investment - which stands to earn you more than $270,000 over twenty years.

Located between the banks of the sparkling Red River and quiet Sibley Lake, this Louisiana university suffers no shortage of scenic views. Of course, students who attend this cheap Louisiana college are looking for more than a great shot of nature. Individuals at Northwestern State learn to take their education seriously, and separate colleges for the arts and sciences, business and technology, education and human development, and nursing and allied health ensure that you have every possible opportunity to pursue your interests. You might also consider the Louisiana Scholars' College; not only does it offer the renowned "Great Books" curriculum and small classes to particularly bright students, but it's also the only designated honors college in the state!