Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College logo

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

Baton Rouge, LA

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

29,207
Total Students
$12K
Tuition (In-State)
$29K
Tuition (Out-State)
$20K
Avg Net Price
74%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Graduation Rate
6-year
84%
Retention Rate
Doctoral Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

Discover LSU: Louisiana's flagship land-grant research university with a rich history and vibrant campus life.

Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College, widely known as LSU, stands as Louisiana's esteemed flagship land-grant research university. Established on January 2, 1860, near Pineville as a military academy, LSU boasts a deep and enduring history, earning it the affectionate nickname "The Ole War Skule." Over the decades, it evolved, reopening in Baton Rouge after the Civil War and becoming coeducational in the early 20th century. Today, its iconic 650-acre main campus, dedicated in 1926, captivates with more than 250 buildings designed in the elegant Italian Renaissance style, creating a truly inspiring environment.

As a public R1 Doctoral University with "Very High Research Activity," LSU offers a robust academic experience through its 14 schools and colleges. Prospective students can explore diverse programs ranging from agriculture and engineering to business, humanities, and veterinary medicine. The university is dedicated to advancing knowledge and providing extensive educational opportunities, attracting a broad spectrum of students seeking rigorous academics and cutting-edge research opportunities.

With a vibrant student body of over 42,000 students in Fall 2024, including a record-breaking and diverse freshman class, LSU fosters a dynamic and inclusive community. Beyond the classroom, students embrace the lively spirit of the Tigers and Lady Tigers, cheering on their NCAA Division I SEC athletic teams. The campus, nestled in Baton Rouge, provides a rich student experience supported by extensive resources and a strong sense of tradition, making LSU an exceptional place to learn, grow, and thrive.

Key Highlights

  • Designated as an R1: Doctoral University with "Very High Research Activity."
  • The flagship institution of Louisiana, established on January 2, 1860.
  • Home to a diverse student body of 42,016 students (Fall 2024), including 34,502 undergraduates.
  • Features a picturesque 650-acre main campus with over 250 buildings in Italian Renaissance architectural style.
  • Member of the NCAA Division I Southeastern Conference (SEC), proudly represented by its mascot, Mike the Tiger.
  • System-wide endowment of $1.14 billion as of 2024, supporting extensive academic and research initiatives.
  • Historically founded as a military academy, maintaining traditions reflected in its nickname "The Ole War Skule."

Timeline

1860
Founded as Louisiana State Seminary of Learning & Military Academy near Pineville.
1869
The seminary building burned; institution resumed exercises in Baton Rouge.
1870
Name officially changed to Louisiana State University.
1877
Merged with the Agricultural and Mechanical College, prompting the final name change.
1905
Admitted its first female student, R. O. Davis, for a master's degree program.
1908
University fully opened its doors to female applicants, establishing coeducation.
1926
The present 650-acre LSU campus in Baton Rouge was formally dedicated.
1978
Named a sea-grant college, the 13th university in the nation to receive this designation.
2021
William F. Tate IV named the first African-American president in LSU's history.

Schools & Colleges

19 notable schools within Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College

🏫

College of Agriculture

🎨

College of Art & Design

🔬

College of Humanities & Social Sciences

🔬

College of Science

💼

E. J. Ourso College of Business

🎭

College of Music & Dramatic Arts

📚

College of Human Sciences & Education

⚙️

College of Engineering

⚖️

Paul M. Hebert Law Center

🏫

University College

🏫

Roger Hadfield Ogden Honors College

🎓

Pinkie Gordon Lane Graduate School

🏫

Manship School of Mass Communication

🏫

School of Information Studies

🏥

School of Veterinary Medicine

🏫

College of the Coast & Environment

🏫

School of Social Work

📚

Continuing Education

🏫

Louisiana State University Laboratory School

A kindergarten through 12th grade public school operated by the university.

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