PublicTownNorthwestern State University of Louisiana
NSU
Natchitoches, Louisiana 71497-0002
Data last updated: August 29, 2026
Known for health sciences — excellent value
Northwestern State University of Louisiana is a public institution in Natchitoches with particular strength in health sciences and business. With an average SAT of 1090, the school attracts a broad applicant pool.
A mid-sized campus of 5.8K undergraduates with a 16:1 student-faculty ratio. The town location creates a classic college-town feel.
45% of students graduate within four years, and graduates earn a median of $47,021 a decade after enrollment. Net price after aid averages $13,809.
More About This School
Varsity Sports — Lady Demons
History & Fun Facts
- •As early as 1856, the Bullard mansion was in use as a convent by the Religious Society of the Sacred Heart.
- •In 1884, the Louisiana State Legislature by Act 51 created the Louisiana State Normal School for the preparation of teachers.
- •Baccalaureate programs were inaugurated, and the Louisiana Constitution of 1921 changed the name of the school to Louisiana State Normal College.
Source: Wikipedia
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Admissions
SAT Score Ranges
Average: 1090
ACT Score Range
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard / IPEDS.
Typical Application Requirements
Cost & Financial Aid
Sticker Price
Net Price by Family Income
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Net price reflects most recent cohort of federally-aided undergraduates.
Debt & Aid Detail
Net Price Trend
Tuition Trend
Graduate w/ Zero Debt
63.0%
Avg Tuition Increase
0.8%/yr
Median Debt at Grad
$15,000
Programs (73)
Outcomes
Median Earnings After Graduation
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. Earnings reflect federally-aided students 6 and 10 years after entry.
Student Life
Student Satisfaction
Retention Rate
70%
Student Body
Race & Ethnicity
Campus Safety
Total Incidents (2024)
40
Peer Average
37
3-Year Trend
Emergency System
Campus police, emergency alert system, blue-light phones
Incident Breakdown (2024)
Burglary
Aggravated Assault
Robbery
Motor Vehicle Theft
Sex Offenses
Arson
Drug Arrests
Liquor Arrests
Source: U.S. Department of Education Campus Safety & Security data (Clery Act, 2024 reporting year).
Location & Lifestyle
Cost of Living
Estimated from LA state average
Climate (School Year)
Nearest Cities
Getting There
Nearest Airports
Distance to Cities
Visit Planning
Nearby Hotels
Plan Your Visit
Days out near Natchitoches
NewTwo or three colleges you can see in one day around Natchitoches, from real bookable tour times.
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