Although Louisiana is well-known for its agricultural industry—generating a lot of rice, soybeans, and corn exports—it also makes other contributions to the US economy. It has generated a real GDP, or gross domestic output, of $219.1 billion in 2023. Louisiana’s good location makes it a doorway for businesses wanting to reach national and international markets, exposing MBA graduates to many different business settings.

The state’s big port system and central location in the southern US make it an important hub for businesses worldwide. It has good infrastructure with six highways, railroads, ports, and airports, making it convenient for businesses to move things efficiently. Louisiana is attractive for investments in energy, manufacturing, and new technology-related industries. This brings many opportunities for MBA graduates.

The state also invests in different projects, like making natural gas and upgrading lumber mills, which makes its economy strong and diverse. It believes in education and new ideas, supporting higher education and technology development. This matches well with MBA programs, allowing students to learn and use the latest information in real situations.

When it comes to the unemployment rate, you don’t have to worry as much. The state’s 3.5% unemployment rate falls well below the national average. This means that the state provides a relatively stable job market, enhancing the attractiveness of pursuing an MBA here.

Louisiana also has a robust higher education system. With 17 public, 17 nonprofit private, and 28 for-profit private four-year colleges and universities, you’ll never run out of options on where to study. However, not all these universities are created the same—they each have their strengths and weaknesses. Some institutions are best for liberal arts studies, while others are made for STEM degrees.

Based on information from the National Center for Educational Statistics (NCES), business degrees are available at 28 public and nonprofit universities. When pursuing an MBA degree, it’s crucial to only apply to programs with regional and programmatic accreditation. The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business is the most popular business education accreditation.

In this ranking, we’ve only included the ten best MBA schools in Louisiana, which means that they are Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)-approved and accredited by the AACSB or ACBSP.

Top 10 MBA Programs in Louisiana

Freeman School of Business – Tulane University

Tulane University is a top-rated private research university in Louisiana that earned a distinction as an R1 institution. It’s also a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), which means that its graduate and professional education and research programs are among the best in the United States and Canada. However, the tuition fee at Tulane University is expensive. According to the US News and World Report, the average tuition fee for degree programs at Tulane is $22k above the national average.

Nevertheless, Tulane’s enrollment is still soaring due to its known rigor and competitiveness.

Tulane University houses six schools, including the Freeman School of Business. Freeman School is one of the most comprehensive business schools in the United States, emphasizing an innovative curriculum that blends classroom instruction with experiential learning and real-world applications. All Freeman School of Business courses are taught by distinguished faculty members and seasoned business experts to give students insights into today’s modern business environment.

The Freeman School of Business offers two MBA programs:

These MBA degrees are fully accredited by the AACSB. They only differ in delivery formats but follow the same curriculum. Each student of either MBA will be equipped with the knowledge and skills required for the interconnected business world, emphasizing international business courses. These MBAs are also STEM-designated programs, better preparing students for the technologically-driven marketplace.

The Professional MBA requires students to complete international trips to Latin America, Europe, and Asia as part of its Global Leadership Module. This MBA track offers seven specializations: Finance, Energy, Entrepreneurial Hospitality, Analytics, Strategic Management and Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Real Estate. On the other hand, the Full-Time track offers only four concentrations: Finance, Strategy And Marketing, Analytics, and Sustainability.

One space on the campus is designed to resemble a trading center at a brokerage house; it has plasma screens, computers running sophisticated trading software, and an electronic stock ticker. The Stewart Center CBD in downtown New Orleans, which houses the executive MBA program and the recently announced program in entrepreneurial hospitality, is part of the campus expansion completed in January 2019.

E. J. Ourso College of Business – LSU (Louisiana State University)

Louisiana State University - E. J. Ourso College of Business

Louisiana State University is a public land grant institution that gained traction for its research initiatives in various fields. Students in all degree levels have various opportunities to participate in research opportunities, either faculty-led or student-initiated. LSU has eight campuses statewide. However, the most popular is the one in Baton Rouge.

LSU’s Ourso College of Business is one of the best business schools in Louisiana, with a long-standing accreditation from the AACSB. This business school is popular for prioritizing students’ personal and professional growth, offering various student services like academic advising, career counseling, and networking opportunities. Ourso College is also one of the top providers of MBA degrees nationwide.

There are five MBA pathways available at LSU:

These customizable and affordable MBA degrees are among the most sought-after programs for working adult students. Students will greatly benefit from its STEM-designated curriculum, application-based learning, and practical focus that aligns with industry needs. The MBAs offer cutting-edge coursework, leadership, professional development, and job placement opportunities.

Students can also choose a concentration to customize their degrees and align them with in-demand industries. LSU MBA offers concentrations in Accounting, Data Analytics, Entrepreneurship & Family Enterprise, Finance, Hospitality & Casino Management, International Business, Marketing, and Project Management. MBA students pursuing the Data Analytics concentration will graduate with an added certificate without taking any additional courses.

College of Business – Louisiana Tech University

Louisiana Tech University, a public research university, was initially established to provide education in the arts and sciences and practical and industrial skills. Over the years, the university has adopted a more comprehensive approach to education and begun offering various academic programs, from the arts and science to business and technology. Today, Louisiana Tech has expanded into a comprehensive research university and gained an R2 designation from the Carnegie Foundation.

Among its top-performing schools is the College of Business, which offers some of the best business disciplines accredited by the AACSB. The college is known for its academic culture with personal connections, ensuring students receive the attention and guidance they need to excel. It also boasts a 93% continuing education rate where undergraduates pursue graduate school after graduation.

Interested MBA students have various opportunities to pursue an MBA at Louisiana Tech. They can enroll in:

These MBA programs are “market-responsive” programs, which means they are flexible in preparing students for positions at a Fortune 500 or a start-up company. Whether enrolled on-campus or online, MBA students can take advantage of the college’s state-of-the-art facilities, technology labs, innovative learning centers, and collaborative working spaces. They will have access to top teaching faculty and technology-focused academic programs—the college partners with leading companies for internships, mentorships, and career opportunities.

Louisiana Tech offers a range of financial aid opportunities to support students pursuing MBA programs. These financial aid options, which include scholarships, grants, tuition discounts, and work-study programs, are designed to assist eligible students in managing the costs associated with their education.

College of Business – Loyola University New Orleans

Loyola University New Orleans, a top private university in the United States, emphasizes a holistic approach to higher education. The university was built as a response to the growing Catholic population in New Orleans. Since then, the university has continued expanding and now offers over 100 majors, leading to certificates and undergraduate and graduate degrees.

The College of Business at Loyola University New Orleans is a sought-after business school accredited by the AACSB. The college offers various business programs that equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to create a mark and revolutionize their chosen field. One of its popular business programs is the Master of Business Administration, which has four tracks:

These MBA programs are designed for motivated professionals seeking to advance their business careers, achieve a competitive edge, and exceed professional goals. Prospective MBA students can expect to emerge in a curriculum that focuses on practical skills, ethical leadership, and a global mindset.

Another standout feature of the College of Business at Loyola University New Orleans is its Portfolio Career Program. This program helps students connect with local professionals, coaches, and upperclassmen to showcase their future in business. It partners with local employers, ensuring connections and real work experience before graduation.

Students will learn in an inspiring environment, grow ideas in labs, and build careers while working alongside New Orleans business community leaders.

College of Business – McNeese State University

McNeese State University is a competitive public university classified as a Master’s Degree and a Tier One Regional University. While it is particularly recognized for its majors in the liberal arts and humanities, the university provides comprehensive education in fields such as business, education, engineering, health and human performance, nursing, and science.

Its College of Business is a prominent business school that prepares graduates for a global business environment. From its undergraduate to graduate offerings, the McNeese COB covers economics and business knowledge, and the school adapts through partnerships, community engagement, internships, and service-learning programs. The college offers a Master of Business Administration that can be completed on-campus and online and has three tracks:

Regardless of which track students choose, they will undergo a rigorous curriculum that will equip them with the necessary abilities to excel in administrative and leadership roles in a globally competitive business environment. Accredited by the AACSB, the McNeese MBA is constantly updated by its experienced faculty members to meet the evolving demands of the changing global landscape, changing values, and diverse workforce.

McNeese partners with the business and professionals in the Lake Charles community to help its students create a professional network for improved business opportunities. In addition to its core and concentration courses, students must complete an experiential learning opportunity that is focused on practical applications and analytical thinking.

McNeese offers low tuition rates, financial aid, scholarships, internships, and service-learning projects. Graduates can also participate in graduate research projects and meet with the dean twice a semester.

College of Business Administration – Nicholls State University

Nicholls State University is another public university in Louisiana nationally ranked as one of the best universities for graduate studies and is the only university serving the Bayou Region. Nicholls State is known for its diverse student organizations and vibrant campus life, creating a welcoming environment for students from various backgrounds.

The university offers at least 100 academic programs, including a Master of Business Administration from its College of Business Administration. There are four pathways available for students who want to complete an MBA at Nicholls State:

The MBAs at Nicholls State are high-quality, AACSB International-accredited programs that emphasize a student-focused environment, dedicated faculty, and numerous rewarding career opportunities. MBA students can delve into diverse business disciplines like Finance, Entrepreneurship, Marketing, and Management. The program is structured to equip graduates with a holistic understanding of business operations, preparing them for leadership roles in various industries.

The university’s strong connections with regional businesses and industries provide students with valuable networking opportunities and access to internships. The Office of Career Services collaborates with students to refine their resumes, hone interview skills, and connect with potential employers, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce or advance in their current careers.

College of Business – Southeastern Louisiana University

Southeastern Louisiana University offers a supportive and student-centered environment, with faculty members dedicated to helping them achieve their academic and professional goals. The campus has a famous Friendship Oak tree, symbolizing the university’s unity and community. As the state’s third-largest university, Southeastern offers more than 150 programs of study and enrolls over 15,000 students annually.

Southeastern has five academic colleges, all of which have received acknowledgment and accreditation within their fields. For instance, SLU’s College of Business is renowned for its business administration programs and is accredited by the AACSB. Southeastern’s COB is applauded for providing students from all levels with comprehensive educational experiences.

The Southeastern COB offers one of the most academically rigorous MBA programs:

SLU MBA

The MBA program at Southeastern Louisiana University goes beyond traditional business education by emphasizing personal interaction and interdisciplinary learning experiences, fostering a holistic approach to leadership and management. Students have the opportunity to tailor their MBA learning by choosing a concentration in Accounting or Financial Analysis. Whether students pursue accounting or financial analysis, they will graduate with the skills needed for business success and ethical decision-making.

The program also features an accelerated format that allows students to apply their MBA knowledge quickly. This opportunity provides students with a competitive edge in the job market, especially when seeking career advancement or business opportunities.

The inclusivity of Southeastern Louisiana University’s MBA program is one of its main advantages. Since the program values a diversity of academic backgrounds and experiences, it invites applicants with bachelor’s degrees in various fields. Students bring a variety of viewpoints and ideas to the classroom, which fosters a dynamic and enriching learning environment. This is made possible by their openness.

College of Business – Southern University and A&M College

The most prominent historically black university in Louisiana, Southern University and A&M College, is a proud beacon of academic achievement, cultural legacy, and community involvement. Southern University prioritizes research and innovation, offering students cutting-edge projects and faculty members with extensive knowledge and expertise in their respective fields. Beyond academics, Southern University is also very strict about recruiting students to participate in its community service and civic engagement.

The College of Business at Southern University is an AACSB-accredited school that offers a comprehensive business program. It prepares students for global career challenges and contributes positively to the public and private sectors through effective instruction, research, and community engagement. The Southern University COB offers three MBA pathways:

Students enrolled in the Southern University MBA will be immersed in a unique and enriching program where they’ll learn in a dynamic environment. It equips MBA students with practical skills and industry insights beyond the traditional classroom setting. The admission process for this MBA is also deemed less complicated and less competitive, giving chances to students who might not have considered pursuing an MBA due to conventional barriers, such as low GPAs and bachelor’s degrees from other fields.

Once enrolled, students discover that the inclusive philosophy extends to the curriculum and the learning environment. After all, this MBA is designed to accommodate numerous learning styles and preferences.

In addition to the academic components, the program provides a platform for students to connect with industry leaders and alumni. Networking events, guest lectures, and panel discussions offer invaluable insights into various sectors, giving students a unique chance to build professional relationships and gain mentorship from seasoned professionals.

BI Moody III College of Business – University of Louisiana Lafayette

The University of Louisiana Lafayette is the largest among the nine-campus University of Louisiana System. Its student body, recorded at 16,225, is the second largest in Louisiana. As a large campus, UL Lafayette is home to some of the state’s most renowned facilities, research centers, and faculty.

The university offers 80 academic programs and a myriad of student support services. Its BI Moody III College of Business is a nationally ranked AACSB-accredited business school known for its rigorous curriculum and faculty expertise. Moody College’s business programs emphasize global perspectives, exposing students to international practices, cultures, and trends through study abroad, internships, and global competitions.

Students interested in earning an MBA degree can pursue one of the programs offered by UL Lafayette:

Students can tailor their degrees by choosing a concentration. They can pursue a concentration in Finance, Business Administration, Entrepreneurship, Human Resource Management, Sales Leadership, Hospitality Management, Global Management, or Project Management. Online MBA students can also pursue an MBA in Health Care Administration.

This wide variety of concentration options allows students to customize their educational experience and hone in on specific skills and knowledge areas that will directly benefit their career goals. Moreover, students can pursue an 8-week accelerated schedule for their online MBA courses, allowing them to fast-track their degree completion.

Prospective MBA students can expect to pay low and affordable tuition prices when enrolled at the Moody College of Business.

College of Business Administration – The University of New Orleans

College of Business Administration - University of New Orleans

The University of New Orleans was established in 1956 as the first racially integrated public university in the South, which began with only 1,460 students enrolled. Today, UNO has graduated over 80,000 alumni, solidifying its reputation as a transformative institution committed to academic excellence and diversity.

UNO offers over 60 degree programs in arts, business, education, engineering, and sciences, including the College of Business Administration, the only business school with a self-funded career center. UNO’s Business Career Coaching Center significantly contributes to its students’ success. They offer various student services, including career coaching, resume assistance, job placement, business etiquette, and more.

UNO offers two MBA tracks:

The UNO MBAs, fully accredited by the AACSB, prepare students for managerial positions in the private and public sectors. The core curriculum of these MBAs is to help students develop keen problem-solving and decision-making abilities necessary for navigating the complexities of modern business environments.

Students who want to tailor their MBA learning will work with an academic advisor from the College of Business Administration to choose a concentration that will help them reach their goals. Current concentrations available include International Business, Marketing, Health Care Management, Human Resource Management, Management Information Systems, Technology Management, Hotel-Restaurant-Tourism, and Finance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Louisiana a good place for an MBA?

Louisiana’s economy offers a promising future for MBA professionals, with a median annual income of $133,605 and the state’s low cost of living. MBA professionals can work in any industry thanks to an MBA’s education and training. However, MBA graduates who’ve studied operations management, technology management, finance, healthcare, marketing, and international business may have better opportunities since these concentrations lead directly to the state’s top industries.

What are the admission requirements for the MBA program in Louisiana?

The type of MBA program (full-time, part-time, executive), your background, and the particular institution or business school you are applying to are some variables that affect the admission requirements of MBA programs in Louisiana. Generally speaking, like those nationwide, Louisianan MBA schools aim to choose applicants from a broad range of backgrounds and skill sets.

MBA programs typically require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree, professional work experience, standardized test scores, letters of recommendation, a resume, a statement of purpose, an interview, and proof of English language proficiency. Programs may also require a statement of purpose or personal essay and standardized tests like the TOEFL or IELTS for international applicants.

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