Overview
The College of Nursing at McNeese State University has been training nurses for decades as one of the university's most respected academic units, building a strong reputation in Louisiana for producing well-prepared, licensure-ready graduates. It offers a range of degree pathways including a BSN, RN-to-BSN completion track, and graduate-level nursing programs, with a curriculum emphasizing clinical competency, evidence-based practice, and community health. The college maintains strong ties with regional hospitals and healthcare systems in Lake Charles and the broader Southwest Louisiana region, supporting robust clinical placement opportunities.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Lake Charles, Louisiana |
| Founded | 1939 |
| Total students | 800 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 12:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 60% |
| Graduation rate | 70% |
| Average starting salary | $62,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $10,500 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $22,000 |
| Room & board | $10,200 |
| Average financial aid | $8,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 80% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 950-1150 |
| ACT range | 19-24 |
| Average GPA | 3.30 |
| Regular deadline | July 1 |
Top Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN)
- RN to BSN
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Family Nurse Practitioner
- Nursing Education
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.