Skip to content
Public, 4-year

Northwestern State University of Louisiana

Natchitoches, Louisiana · www.nsula.edu

中文

Acceptance rate

92.5%

2025

Peer median 85.8%

Out-of-state tuition

$19,652

In-state $8,864

Peer median $18,658

Undergraduates

7,622

Student-faculty ratio 16:1

Peer median 16 : 1

Graduation rate

30.6%

4-year; 6-year rate 46.5%

Peer median 29.5%

“Peers” are all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).

About

Northwestern State University of Louisiana (NSU) is a prominent institution located in Natchitoches, a city rich in history and culture. Founded in 1884, NSU has evolved into a comprehensive university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with particular strengths in areas such as education, nursing, business, and performing arts. The university's commitment to academic excellence is encapsulated in its motto, "The Spirit of the Educator," which emphasizes the importance of teaching and learning. NSU is known for its supportive faculty and small class sizes, which foster an engaging learning environment that encourages student participation and collaboration.

The university boasts a vibrant campus culture, characterized by a diverse student body and a plethora of extracurricular activities. NSU is home to a variety of student organizations, cultural events, and athletic programs, which promote a strong sense of community and school spirit. The university's scenic campus features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational centers, enhancing the overall educational experience. With a strong focus on student success, NSU provides numerous resources such as academic advising, career services, and internship opportunities, which significantly contribute to high graduation rates and successful job placements for graduates. The institution has produced many notable alumni who have made significant contributions in their respective fields, further solidifying NSU's reputation as a leading educational establishment in Louisiana.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Northwestern State University

The data from Northwestern State University of Louisiana reveals several significant trends that reflect the evolving landscape of higher education. One of the most noteworthy changes is the increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. Over the years, in-state tuition has risen from $6,246 in 2014 to $8,864 in 2024, marking an increase of 42%. Similarly, out-of-state tuition has seen a substantial jump from $16,366 to $19,652, which represents a 20% increase. This trend aligns with the larger national concern regarding the rising cost of college education, which can deter prospective students, particularly those from lower-income backgrounds.

Another critical metric is the graduation rate, which has shown a positive trajectory. The on-time graduation rate for undergraduates increased from approximately 16% in 2013 to over 30% in 2023. This doubling of the rate not only enhances the university's reputation but also suggests improved support systems and academic resources for students. A higher graduation rate is crucial, as it indicates that students are successfully completing their degrees, which can lead to better job prospects and economic stability.

Moreover, the retention rate has fluctuated over the years, peaking at around 76% in 2018 but dipping to approximately 61% in 2023. This decline raises concerns about student satisfaction and the overall educational experience, which could impact future enrollment. Keeping students engaged and supported is essential for maintaining a healthy academic environment.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has varied, hovering around 19 to 22 in recent years. A lower student-to-faculty ratio often correlates with more personalized attention from instructors, potentially enhancing academic outcomes. However, the slight increase in the ratio suggests the need for careful monitoring to ensure that faculty resources are adequate to meet student needs.

Overall, the data from Northwestern State University highlights critical areas for improvement, particularly in managing tuition costs and enhancing student retention, while also celebrating the progress made in graduation rates. Addressing these factors will be vital for the university's continued success and competitiveness in the higher education landscape.

This collegeRanked colleges nearby

Setting
Remote town
Nearest major city
Baton Rouge, about 150 mi
Nearest international airport
George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), about 180 mi
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Also known as
NSU, NSULA, Northwestern State University, Northwestern, NwSU
Academic calendar
Semester
Religious affiliation
Not applicable
President
James T. Genovese (President)
Phone
3183576011
City
Natchitoches, Louisiana
Address
175 Sam Sibley Drive, Natchitoches, LA 71497-0002

Rankings & Admission

Acceptance rate (%)

Peer median 85.8% · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Acceptance rate by gender, 2025

Men
91.1%
Women
93.2%

In 2020: men 82.4%, women 81.9%.

Data insights

Trends in Admission Rates at Northwestern State University of Louisiana

The admission data for Northwestern State University of Louisiana reveals intriguing trends over the years, particularly in the acceptance rates for male and female applicants. The male acceptance rate started at approximately 81% in 2009 but has seen fluctuations, peaking at around 97% in 2023. This upward trajectory suggests an increasingly inclusive approach toward male applicants, which could be a response to broader trends in higher education aimed at increasing enrollment numbers.
Conversely, the female acceptance rate has also generally improved, rising from 83.8% in 2009 to an impressive 98.4% in 2023. This increase may reflect the university's commitment to gender equity in admissions, aligning with national trends that show a growing female presence in higher education.
The enrollment figures show variability, with a notable spike in 2017 when enrollment reached 1,462. However, this coincided with a significant decline in admission rates, particularly in 2017, where the male acceptance rate dropped to about 62%. This discrepancy suggests that while the university was focused on increasing overall enrollment, it may have inadvertently become more selective, likely impacting the number of students admitted.
Moreover, the number of students denied admission has also fluctuated, indicating a responsive admission strategy that adapts to changing applicant pools and institutional goals. As institutions of higher education continue to navigate the complexities of enrollment management, Northwestern State University's data reflects both challenges and successes in fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment.

School and Program Rankings

U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking

Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition

Nursing School#336▼42 Business School#439▲17
Social Sciences and Humanities1 programs—

Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition

Health Specialty1 programs—

Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition

Test Scores

2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 3% submitted SAT, 85% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted

SAT total866–1163Peer median 1080
ACT composite18–24
SAT Reading
448–610
600700800
SAT Math
418–553
600700800
ACT composite
18–24
253036

Data insights

Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Northwestern State University of Louisiana

The data from Northwestern State University of Louisiana reveals interesting trends in the standardized test scores over the years. Notably, the submission rates for the SAT and ACT have seen a significant decline, with percentages dropping from 9% in 2007 to as low as 3% in recent years. This trend may indicate a shift in the university's admissions strategy or a broader national trend toward test-optional policies, which many universities have adopted to promote inclusivity and access.

Looking at the score ranges, the 25th percentile SAT reading scores have fluctuated, starting from 420 in 2007 and peaking at 500 in 2020. Conversely, the 75th percentile scores have shown a gradual increase, reaching 610 in 2020 before slightly declining in subsequent years. This suggests that while the middle range of applicants may not be improving significantly, the higher achievers are still performing well, indicating a potential tightening of academic standards.

The ACT scores present a similar picture, with the 25th percentile scores remaining relatively stable while the 75th percentile scores demonstrate some growth over the years. This could reflect a consistent cohort of high-achieving students applying to the university, despite the overall decrease in the number of test submissions.

Overall, these patterns may reflect broader educational trends and changing attitudes toward standardized testing, which have become increasingly scrutinized in recent years. As universities adapt to these shifts, it will be crucial to monitor how these changes affect student demographics and academic outcomes at Northwestern State University.

How Hard Is It to Get In

about 9 in 10

3,015 applicants in 2025, 92.5% admitted

2,790 admitted 225 not admitted Yield 37.4%

Degrees & Majors

Graduates in 2025 (first major)

Associate4934 international (0.8%)
Bachelor's1,11632 international (2.9%)
Master's2576 international (2.3%)
Doctoral421 international (2.4%)
Top 10 Bachelor's majors by graduates
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse
267
General Studies
99
Business Administration and Management, General
89
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer
74
Psychology, General
73
Biology/Biological Sciences, General
54
Human Development and Family Studies, General
48
Social Work
41
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies
39
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General
39

U.S. studentsInternational

Popular graduate programs

  • Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse · Master's96 (0% international)
  • Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching · Doctoral22 (5% international)
  • Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer · Master's22 (0% international)
  • Nursing Practice · Doctoral20 (0% international)
  • Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General · Master's16 (13% international)
  • English Language and Literature, General · Master's16 (0% international)

Data insights

Analysis of Graduate Statistics at Northwestern State University of Louisiana

The data from Northwestern State University of Louisiana reveals interesting trends in graduate numbers across various disciplines, particularly in the fields of healthcare, education, and the arts. Notably, the Registered Nursing program stands out with a significant number of graduates, amounting to 98 at the associate level, indicating a strong demand for nursing professionals. This trend aligns with the ongoing national focus on healthcare, especially in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has intensified the need for qualified healthcare workers.

On the other hand, the education-related programs seem to have a consistent output, with multiple areas producing graduates in the range of 8 to 15. This reflects a steady interest in teaching careers, which are essential for community development. However, it is crucial to note that the majority of these education programs are producing a lower number of graduates compared to nursing, suggesting a potential shortage of educators in the near future.

Interestingly, the performance arts also show a vibrant graduation scene, with several programs, including Theater and Music Performance, graduating a modest number of students. This could be indicative of the growing interest in creative fields, although the numbers still pale in comparison to the healthcare sector.

Furthermore, the international student presence is noteworthy, particularly in psychology, where 4 international students graduated with a bachelor’s degree. This reflects the university's ability to attract a diverse student body, which is essential for fostering global perspectives in education. Overall, the data highlights the university's strengths in healthcare and education, while also pointing to areas where growth and increased enrollment may be necessary to meet future job market demands.

All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard

*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes

Health professionshas 655 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General.$80,862
Radiologic Technology/Science - Radiographer.$62,421-$72,151
Substance Abuse/Addiction Counseling.$30,611
Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse.$76,774-$115,505
Nursing Practice.$76,774-$115,505
Liberal arts has 451 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Liberal Arts and Sciences/Liberal Studies.$37,721-$41,844
General Studies.$37,721-$41,844
Businesshas 133 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Business Administration and Management, General.$43,904
Accounting.$52,462
Hospitality Administration/Management, General.$33,565
Educationhas 125 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Curriculum and Instruction.-
Educational Leadership and Administration, General.$56,457
Special Education and Teaching, General.$56,444
Counselor Education/School Counseling and Guidance Services.$49,401
College Student Counseling and Personnel Services.$49,401
Adult and Continuing Education and Teaching.$50,308-$52,067
Elementary Education and Teaching.$50,308-$52,067
Junior High/Intermediate/Middle School Education and Teaching.$50,308-$52,067
Secondary Education and Teaching.$50,308-$52,067
Early Childhood Education and Teaching.$50,308-$52,067
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods, Other.$50,308-$52,067
Music Teacher Education.-
Physical Education Teaching and Coaching.-
Education, Other.-
Psychology has 81 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Psychology, General.$30,031
Clinical Psychology.-
Visual and Performing artshas 63 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Dance, General.-
Drama and Dramatics/Theatre Arts, General.$27,678
Musical Theatre.$27,678
Art/Art Studies, General.$15,645
Fine/Studio Arts, General.$15,645
Music Performance, General.-
Biologyhas 57 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Biology/Biological Sciences, General.$33,667
Microbiology, General.-
Parks, recreation, leisure has 56 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness, General.$29,238-$45,639
Sport and Fitness Administration/Management.$29,238-$45,639
Homeland security has 50 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.$35,717
Homeland Security.$50,407
Human science has 48 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Human Development and Family Studies, General.$35,973
Public administrationhas 41 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Social Work.$37,669
Computer and information sciencehas 32 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Information Science/Studies.$59,340
Engineering technologieshas 30 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Engineering Technologies/Technicians, General.-
Electrical, Electronic, and Communications Engineering Technology/Technician.$67,253
Industrial Technology/Technician.$60,160
Communication has 27 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Speech Communication and Rhetoric.$32,935
English has 23 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
English Language and Literature, General.-
Agricultural has 14 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Veterinary/Animal Health Technology/Technician and Veterinary Assistant.-
History has 13 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
History, General.$32,981
Multi/inerdisciplinary studies has 7 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other.-
Physical scienceshas 2 graduates in 2025
MajorGraduate SalaryAssociateUnderMasterDoctor
Physical Sciences, General.-

Students

8,523 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 31:69 · Freshman retention 70.9%

Undergraduate race and ethnicity (7,622)

White
4,323 · 56.7%
Black
1,817 · 23.8%
Hispanic
443 · 5.8%
Two or more races
364 · 4.8%
Unknown
320 · 4.2%
International
150 · 2.0%
Asian
91 · 1.2%

Data insights

Analysis of Student Demographics at Northwestern State University of Louisiana

The student body at Northwestern State University of Louisiana exhibits a diverse composition, particularly in terms of gender distribution and ethnic background. The undergraduate freshmen category shows a significant majority of female students, comprising 63.5% of this group. This trend continues among other student classifications, with female representation notably high at 73.2% in undergraduate juniors and 78.7% in graduate programs, reflecting a broader national trend where women are increasingly enrolling in higher education.

In terms of ethnic diversity, while specific data for undergraduate juniors and transfers is not available, the available figures indicate that the largest ethnic group among freshmen is white students, who make up a substantial portion of the overall demographics. The focus on inclusivity is evident, as the university strives to create an environment that welcomes individuals from various backgrounds, including underrepresented groups.

The data also reveals that as students progress through their educational journey, the percentage of male students decreases, hinting at potential challenges in retaining male students in higher education settings. This phenomenon is an ongoing concern across many universities, where gender disparities in enrollment and retention rates continue to be discussed in academic circles.

Overall, the demographic patterns at Northwestern State University reflect broader societal shifts in education, gender roles, and ethnic diversity. As the university adapts to these changes, ongoing efforts to enhance inclusivity and support for all students will be crucial in fostering a balanced and thriving academic community.

Age Composition of Students at Northwestern State University

The age distribution of students at Northwestern State University of Louisiana reveals significant insights into the demographics of the student body. The largest group of undergraduates is found in the under-18 category, with 733 male and 1,351 female students, indicating a substantial number of young students entering higher education. The 18-19 age group also shows a robust enrollment, particularly among female students, who outnumber their male counterparts.

Interestingly, the data indicates a gradual decline in the number of male students as age increases, particularly in the 20-21 and 22-24 categories. This trend may reflect broader societal challenges, such as the declining college enrollment rates among young men, which have been noted in recent studies. In contrast, female enrollment appears more stable across age groups, culminating in a significant female presence in the 25-29 age range, where females outnumber males substantially.

As we examine older age brackets, particularly those from 30-34 and above, the numbers drop significantly, indicating that traditional college-age students dominate the university's demographic. However, there is a notable presence of non-traditional students, especially among the 25-29 and 30-34 age groups, which may reflect the increasing trend of adults returning to education for career advancement.

Overall, the data underscores the importance of understanding age dynamics within the student population, which can inform university policies and support services tailored to varied student needs, particularly for non-traditional students seeking academic advancement.

International Students

International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Undergraduates2.0%

150 in 2025 · 1.3% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 1.3%2017: 1.3%2018: 1.4%2019: 1.4%2020: 1.3%2021: 1.3%2022: 1.4%2023: 1.8%2024: 1.7%2025: 2.0%
2016Peer median 1.7%2025
Graduate students1.4%

13 in 2025 · 0.8% in 2016

0% 5% 10% 2016: 0.8%2017: 1.1%2018: 1.1%2019: 1.2%2020: 1.7%2021: 1.8%2022: 1.6%2023: 1.8%2024: 1.6%2025: 1.4%
2016Peer median 3.1%2025

Data insights

Trends in International Student Enrollment at Northwestern State University

Over the years, Northwestern State University of Louisiana has demonstrated a notable increase in the enrollment of international students, both at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The percentage of international students in undergraduate programs has gradually risen from 0.36% in 2004 to a significant 1.78% in 2023. This trend indicates a growing interest in the university among international students, reflecting the institution's efforts to enhance its global presence and attract a diverse student body.

On the graduate level, the percentage of international students has also shown an upward trajectory, climbing from 0.69% in 2004 to 1.83% in 2023. This growth can be attributed to various factors, including the university's commitment to providing quality education and support for international students, as well as the increasingly globalized nature of higher education.

The data also reveals fluctuations in the total student population over the years. For instance, while the undergraduate population peaked in 2019 at 9,994 students, it has seen a decline to 8,405 by 2023. Despite these fluctuations, the proportion of international students continues to grow, suggesting that the university is successfully maintaining and attracting a diverse international cohort.

As universities across the United States continue to adapt to changing immigration policies and global health concerns, the sustained growth in international student enrollment at Northwestern State University is a positive sign of resilience and adaptability. The university's focus on fostering an inclusive environment for all students could serve as a model for other institutions aiming to enhance their global engagement.

Cost

2025 cost per year (out-of-state)

$30,578

Undergrad tuition (out-of-state)
$19,652
Undergraduate tuition (in-state)
$8,864
Room and board
$10,926
Graduate tuition
$20,546
Out-of-state tuition and room and board over time

Peer median tuition + room and board $31,000 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Tuition rose 8% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 27%.

Finances · fiscal year 2024

Revenue$141M

Government grants and contracts
$55.9M39.5%
Tuition and fees
$35.6M25.1%
Auxiliary enterprises
$7.3M5.2%
Sales and services of educational activities
$5.7M4.0%
Gifts and private grants
$2.5M1.8%
Other
$34.4M24.4%

Expenses$115M

Instruction
$46.7M40.5%
Scholarships
$14.8M12.8%
Academic support
$14.1M12.2%
Auxiliary enterprises
$12.5M10.8%
Institutional support
$11.3M9.8%
Student services
$8.4M7.3%
Public service
$1.0M0.9%
Research
$364K0.3%
Other
$6.3M5.5%

Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)

Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

All faculty
$64,064peers $80,690
Professor
$77,259peers $98,841
Associate professor
$69,971peers $84,060
Assistant professor
$60,836peers $74,446
Instructor
$50,755peers $58,934

Campus Life

Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Southland Conference

Southland Conference: football, basketball, baseball, cross country

2025
NCAA Division I-FCSMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7976
Football117-
Baseball43-
Soccer-33
Basketball1517
Softball-19
Volleyball-15
Tennis-8
2024
NCAA Division I-FCSMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)6170
Football126-
Baseball41-
Basketball1717
Soccer-26
Softball-23
Volleyball-18
Tennis-8
2023
NCAA Division I-FCSMENWOMEN
Track and Field and Cross Country (combined)7970
Football127-
Baseball40-
Basketball1616
Soccer-28
Softball-23
Volleyball-16
Tennis-8

Nearby & Safety

Ranked colleges nearby

Data insights

Here are some notable universities near Northwestern State University of Louisiana:

  1. Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College - Ranked 185th in the 2024 US News rankings, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs.

  2. University of Houston - With a ranking of 133, this comprehensive university is known for its diverse academic offerings and vibrant campus life.

  3. Rice University - A prestigious institution ranked 17th, Rice University is renowned for its strong emphasis on research and small class sizes.

  4. Texas A & M University-College Station - This well-respected comprehensive university ranks 47th and is known for its engineering and business programs.

  5. Tulane University of Louisiana - Ranked 73rd, Tulane is recognized for its strong liberal arts education and commitment to community service.

These institutions represent a range of educational opportunities in the region, each with its unique strengths and offerings.

Campus safety · incidents per 1,000 students

Peer median 4.7 · all 238 public master's colleges and universities in the U.S.

Incidents, 2023–2025

Drug arrests
94
Drug referrals
57
Burglary
28
Stalking
23
Liquor arrests
17
Liquor referrals
11

From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.

Data insights

Analysis of Crime Rates at Northwestern State University of Louisiana

The crime statistics at Northwestern State University of Louisiana over the past decade reveal a fluctuating trend in the overall crime rates affecting students. In recent years, there has been an observable increase in the average crime rate per 1,000 students, peaking in 2023 at 9.12 incidents per 1,000 students. This figure reflects a growing concern for student safety and highlights the importance of proactive measures in crime prevention.

Looking closely at the specific types of crime, the data shows that gun-related arrests have been particularly notable, with several years reporting incidents both on-campus and off-campus. For instance, in 2020, the university faced a significant spike in gun-related incidents, coinciding with broader national trends of increased gun violence during that period. This alarming rise emphasizes the urgent need for universities to implement effective safety protocols and educational programs regarding weapons and their implications.

Additionally, incidents of drug-related arrests and alcohol-related arrests also appear to contribute to the overall crime rates, underscoring the challenges that universities face in addressing substance abuse among students. The consistent presence of these issues over the years suggests a need for continuous engagement and support systems targeting substance abuse prevention.

As we analyze these statistics, it becomes clear that maintaining a safe campus environment is a shared responsibility among students, faculty, and administration. Universities must remain vigilant and responsive to these trends, fostering an atmosphere that prioritizes safety while promoting awareness and prevention strategies. For more information on how to calculate crime rates, please refer to this link: Crime Rate Calculation.

Notable Alumni

All 24

Notable alumni of Northwestern State University of Louisiana include D'or Fischer (American-Israeli former professional basketball player), Elle Evans (Model and actress in Blurred Lines music video) and Ricardo Acuña (Former Chilean tennis player).

See all 24 notable alumni of Northwestern State University of Louisiana →

References and Data Sources

Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.