Louisiana Engineering Schools
Louisiana offers engineering students a unique blend of academic opportunity, industry access, and cultural richness. With strong programs in civil, chemical, petroleum, and coastal engineering, the state’s institutions are closely tied to its natural resources, infrastructure development, and energy sectors.
Why Study Engineering in Louisiana
Louisiana’s engineering schools offer students the chance to engage with some of the nation’s most critical challenges—like coastal restoration, energy production, and infrastructure renewal. The state also provides affordable tuition and strong ties to regional employers across a variety of types of engineering jobs.
Highlights include:
- Energy and Petrochemical Industry Presence: Louisiana is home to major oil, gas, and chemical companies, offering extensive internship and employment opportunities.
- Coastal and Environmental Engineering Focus: Research and applied work on coastal resilience and sustainability are key priorities.
- Affordable In-State Tuition: Strong public university system with competitive costs and state financial aid.
- Applied Learning and Industry Ties: Universities maintain close partnerships with employers in construction, transportation, and utilities.
Some of the Top Engineering Schools in Louisiana
Louisiana is home to a wide range of engineering schools that reflect the state’s industrial diversity and research priorities. The institutions listed below are among the top choices for engineering students in the state. A full list of ABET-accredited programs will be included later in this profile.
The LSU College of Engineering offers a comprehensive suite of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to cultivate the next generation of engineering leaders. The college’s undergraduate offerings span 11 fields, while graduate students can pursue advanced degrees in areas aligned with LSU’s strategic priorities, including energy, biomedicine, coastal resilience, and defense.
LSU emphasizes hands-on experience and interdisciplinary collaboration, with strong industry partnerships and access to state-of-the-art research facilities. The college supports online learning options and features robust student success programs, including career preparation, scholarships, and co-curricular experiences. Research is a significant component, with nearly $30 million in annual expenditures and faculty who are active in tackling global challenges.
About the University
Louisiana State University is a public research university located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As the state's flagship institution, LSU offers a blend of academic excellence, innovation, and cultural richness, serving a diverse student population in a vibrant campus setting.
The College of Engineering and Science at Louisiana Tech University provides a project-based engineering education designed to prepare students to solve real-world problems from their first year. Undergraduate students begin their academic journey in the state-of-the-art Integrated Engineering and Science Building and progress through a curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning, team collaboration, and product development. The college offers a wide range of engineering and technology degrees including civil, electrical, mechanical, chemical, industrial, cyber, and biomedical engineering, along with engineering technology programs such as construction and instrumentation & control systems.
Graduate students can pursue master’s or doctoral degrees in engineering disciplines, including advanced study in biomedical engineering, engineering and technology management, computational modeling, and molecular science and nanotechnology. Opportunities for assistantships, interdisciplinary research, and online graduate degrees are also available.
About the University
Louisiana Tech University is a public research university located in Ruston, Louisiana. Known for its innovation and commitment to STEM education, Louisiana Tech offers students a supportive, collaborative environment rooted in real-world application and research.
Tulane University's School of Science and Engineering (SSE) offers a distinctive interdisciplinary approach that merges the traditionally separate disciplines of science and engineering. Engineering-related programs within SSE include biomedical engineering, chemical and biomolecular engineering, engineering physics, and the interdisciplinary River-Coastal Science and Engineering program. The school emphasizes both undergraduate and graduate education and actively supports research at all levels, including undergraduate research and interdisciplinary doctoral opportunities such as the Bioinnovation program.
Faculty are active researchers in areas such as sustainability, healthcare innovation, and coastal resilience, and the school fosters a collaborative, student-focused learning environment. The integration of research and education is central to SSE’s mission, with state-of-the-art labs and facilities enabling hands-on learning and discovery.
About the University
Tulane University is a private research institution located in New Orleans, Louisiana. Known for its strong commitment to public service and interdisciplinary studies, Tulane offers a rich educational experience rooted in the vibrant cultural and environmental context of the Gulf South.
Part of the College of Science, Engineering, and Mathematics, McNeese State University’s Department of Engineering and Computer Science offers a practical, industry-connected education grounded in interdisciplinary collaboration and hands-on experience. The department provides a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees, including:
- Bachelor’s Degrees in Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, and Mechanical Engineering
- Master’s Degrees in Engineering with concentrations in Chemical, Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering
Students can also pursue minors in areas such as Automation, Cybersecurity, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Power Engineering. The programs emphasize applied projects, industry-standard technology, and strong regional partnerships that support internships, co-op placements, and career development. Facilities are designed to reflect the latest in engineering and scientific practice, enabling students to engage in real-world problem-solving from their first year.
About the University
McNeese State University is a public institution located in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Known for its commitment to excellence in education and regional engagement, McNeese provides students with a practical, supportive learning environment and close ties to local industry.
The College of Engineering at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette offers a comprehensive suite of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to develop industry-ready leaders equipped to solve real-world problems. Undergraduate degrees are available in Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Petroleum Engineering, as well as Engineering and Technology Management—the only program of its kind in Louisiana. Most programs offer optional concentrations in areas such as Smart Oilfield, Sustainable Energy Systems, and Autonomous & Robotic Systems.
Graduate students can pursue a Master of Science in Engineering with a concentration in Engineering Management. The college emphasizes interdisciplinary education, hands-on learning, and curriculum flexibility through concentrations that align with emerging industry needs.
About the University
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette is a public research university located in Lafayette, Louisiana. Known for its strong ties to industry and a commitment to innovation, it provides a robust educational environment that balances academic rigor with practical application.
Engineering Scholarships and Financial Aid in Louisiana
Louisiana provides engineering students with access to robust financial aid resources, including state-funded scholarships, institutional awards, and federal grants.
Key programs and resources include:
Students should also submit the FAFSA to be considered for federal and most state aid programs.
Engineering Licensure and Other Resources in Louisiana
Licensure is a vital step for engineers working in public safety, infrastructure, and regulated sectors. Louisiana offers a well-structured licensure process and several key academic and professional support resources for engineers.
Key organizations and resources include:
These organizations help students and professionals navigate licensure, expand their networks, and stay current with industry practices.
FAQs About Engineering Education in Louisiana
Can I earn an engineering degree online in Louisiana?
While most in-state programs are campus-based, students can also pursue an online engineering bachelor's degree or an online engineering master's degree from accredited institutions that offer flexible and remote learning formats.
What engineering disciplines are strongest in Louisiana?
Louisiana has particular strengths in petroleum, chemical, civil, coastal, and environmental engineering—reflecting the state’s energy economy and focus on infrastructure and climate resilience.
Is licensure required to work as an engineer in Louisiana?
Yes. A PE license is required for engineers working in regulated sectors or those offering public-facing services. The Louisiana Professional Engineering and Land Surveying Board (LAPELS) governs licensure.
Do Louisiana schools offer internships and co-op opportunities?
Absolutely. Schools like LSU, Louisiana Tech, and UL Lafayette have strong industry partnerships and established co-op and internship pipelines.
ABET-Accredited Engineering Programs in Louisiana
Attending one of the ABET-accredited engineering schools in Louisiana ensures that your education meets the rigorous standards required for licensure, graduate study, and top-tier employment. These programs are reviewed for academic quality, relevance, and industry alignment.
Louisiana’s ABET-accredited programs span a variety of engineering fields, including chemical, civil, mechanical, petroleum, and biomedical engineering. Whether you plan to work in energy, public infrastructure, or sustainability, these degrees offer the foundation you need.
Note: The list of ABET-accredited engineering programs in Louisiana was compiled in 2025. Because program offerings and accreditation statuses may change, readers are encouraged to consult the ABET official website and the individual university websites for the most current information. Additional resources mentioned earlier—such as LAPELS and LOSFA—can also support your academic and professional planning.