Online Computer Science Programs in Louisiana

Louisiana's top-ranked business climate stems from its focus on economic development projects, leading to 35,000 new jobs since 2016. Louisiana's technology sector has also grown in recent years, with more than 2,700 tech-related jobs added between 2010 and 2019.

Though only 4.2% of Louisiana's workforce is employed in tech, computer science graduates still have opportunities to grow their careers within the state's lucrative industries.

An online computer science degree in Louisiana opens doors for technology careers in manufacturing, aerospace, and water management. The state's entertainment industry also seeks digital media professionals, software developers, and network architects.

Louisiana colleges and universities offer online associate, bachelor's, and master's in computer science programs. This guide helps students navigate computer science degrees and potential technology careers in Louisiana.

Louisiana at a Glance

• Population: 4,627,002
• Per Capita Income: $28,662
• Number of Higher Learning Institutions: 56
• % of Workforce in Tech: 4.2%
• Economic Impact of Tech Industry: $8 billion
• Climate: Average Annual Temperature: 66.4 ℉, Annual Precipitation: 60.1 inches
• Major Sports Teams: New Orleans Saints, New Orleans Pelicans

Considerations for a Computer Science Degree in Louisiana

Students should consider a few factors before choosing a Louisiana computer science program. For instance, online learning differs from in-person and hybrid models, and tuition rates often vary by location and program type.

Learners should first decide which degree level to pursue. The following list details the differences between an associate in computer science and other degree levels, along with how they might impact future career choices.

Associate Degree in Computer Science

Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science

Master's Degree in Computer Science

Ph.D in Computer Science

Computer Science Concentration Options

Computer science programs in Louisiana offer several concentrations. The following specializations can be especially beneficial for Louisiana's learners, as they directly relate to robust industries and in-demand technology roles in the state.

Computer Systems

A computer systems concentration teaches learners to design and build computer systems to improve business processes. Louisiana's aerospace, healthcare, and manufacturing industries seek computer systems analysts for entry-level and advanced roles.

Software Engineering

A concentration in software engineering leads to software development and computer programming careers, two leading technology positions in Louisiana. This specialization teaches students computational problem-solving skills to create effective solutions for business processes.

Supply Chain Management

Key Louisiana industries, like automotive and manufacturing, rely on efficient supply chain management processes. A supply chain management concentration incorporates software into the product cycle. This track teaches learners the necessary skills for developing technological systems and strategies for businesses.

Top Louisiana Schools for Computer Science

• Tulane University of Louisiana
• Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College
• Xavier University of Louisiana
• Louisiana Tech University
• University of Louisiana at Lafayette
• University of Louisiana at Monroe
• McNeese State University
• University of New Orleans
• Louisiana State University-Shreveport
• Southeastern Louisiana University

Why Go to College for Computer Science in Louisiana?

Computer science students can choose from 56 two- or four-year colleges in Louisiana. Distance learning opportunities are available for learners who need more flexibility, with 37.2% of the state's college students enrolled in an online program.

Higher education in Louisiana is supported by state initiatives. In 2019, the Louisiana Board of Regents announced its Master Plan for Higher Education with a goal to get 60% of working-age adults to hold a degree or other credential by 2030. The plan aims to increase talent across the state by making postsecondary education a priority.

Some online computer science programs in Louisiana provide students with networking opportunities to secure employment in popular, tech-focused areas such as Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and Shreveport.

Education Statistics for Louisiana

Louisiana's percentage of adults with associate, bachelor's, or graduate degrees is slightly lower than the national average. This means that prospective employees with higher education credentials may stand out in the job application process.

Louisiana appropriates around $6,100 for each full-time learner, about $2,500 less than the national average, though the percentage of funds given to higher education in Louisiana equals the national average.

The following table compares higher education statistics in Louisiana to national data.

Accreditation for Louisiana Schools

Accreditation verifies a school's commitment to academic excellence through its curriculum, student resources, and faculty credentials. Schools can hold regional or national accreditation.

Regional accreditation is the higher standard reserved for nonprofit public and private schools. National accreditation is usually awarded to religious or technical schools.

The Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) is the regional accrediting body for Louisiana institutions. SACSCOC endorses schools based on continuous quality improvement, peer review, and student learning. SACSCOC accreditation is voluntary, and schools are evaluated every 10 years.

Some online computer science degrees may also hold programmatic accreditation from ABET. Programmatic accreditation ensures that a program prepares learners for careers in the field. ABET endorses computing, engineering, and natural science programs.

Paying for Your Computer Science Degree

Louisiana tuition is generally higher than the national average. However, learners from other states considering a Louisiana school may benefit from lower than average out-of-state tuition. Pursuing financial aid options, like scholarships, fellowships, grants, and loans, can also lead to more affordable education costs. Follow the link below to learn more about financial aid options.

In-State Versus Out-of-State Tuition

The most affordable schools in Louisiana are public schools charging in-state tuition.

Out-of-state learners at Louisiana public four-year colleges enjoy tuition lower than the national out-of-state average tuition. Yet, out-of-state rates are still more than twice as costly as Louisiana in-state public tuition. However, online programs at public schools sometimes charge in-state rates for out-of-state learners.

The average cost of private four-year college tuition in Louisiana exceeds the national average by almost $6,000. Some private schools may offer lower tuition rates for online students.

In addition to lower online tuition, out-of-state enrollees may also receive in-state tuition rates at some Louisiana schools through the state's membership with the Southern Regional Education Board.

Louisiana's Cost of Living

Cost of living can directly impact a learner's budget for tuition, books, and other college expenses. Students pursuing an online computer science degree in Louisiana should consider how transportation, housing, food, and healthcare might affect their finances.

Louisiana has a cost of living index score of 93.9, the 20th lowest score in the country. Compared to the national average of 100, the state offers lower living costs, especially for transportation and groceries. This means living in Louisiana may be more affordable compared to other states.

Selecting Your Computer Science Program

In addition to cost, students should consider several other program qualities when selecting a school. Academic quality, supportive and professional faculty, plus alumni resources are a few critical features of stand-out programs. The following rankings offer helpful information as you begin your search.

Explore Our Rankings for the Best Computer Science Programs

Careers for Computer Science Graduates in Louisiana

The United States leads the global technology industry, accounting for about 33% of the world's tech income. According to CompTIA data, Louisiana's technology industry currently ranks 33rd in the country for net tech employment. Louisiana's leading jobs in technology include software programmers, network administrators and architects, plus cybersecurity analysts.

However, only 38% of the state's tech jobs are housed in the tech industry. Thus, the majority of Louisiana tech jobs are in non-technology industries, like agribusiness, manufacturing, and automotive. Construction, transportation, and healthcare are other leading Louisiana industries that also employ tech professionals.

Louisiana's economy ranks 47th in the country based on its business environment, employment, and growth. However, the state projects the economy will add more than 56,000 jobs in the coming year. Tech-forward cities like New Orleans and Shreveport, plus massive employers like IBM and CenturyLink, keep Louisiana's tech industry alive and thriving.

The following sections highlight select careers, top computer science employers, and employment trends in Louisiana's tech landscape.

Select Computer Science Careers in Louisiana

Computer Science Employers in Louisiana

Projected Job Growth for Computer Programmers, Computer and Information Systems Managers, and Web Developers

The most common computer science jobs in Louisiana include computer systems analysts (2,360), software developers (2,290), and computer programmers (2,220). Each of these careers pays more than $85,000 annually — lower than the national mean wage for these specific careers.

Students interested in a tech career in Louisiana can obtain a bachelor's in computer science degree with a concentration in computer programming or software development. Graduates can also pursue data science or other scientific computing concentrations to land high-earning positions in computer and information systems management or computer hardware engineering.

Curious About Other Computer Science Jobs? Explore More Here.

Frequently Asked Questions