Louisiana has been named the most affordable state for online nursing programs in 2024, and McNeese State University’s program helped garner that recognition.

“Our RN to BSN curriculum has 10 nursing courses, but students may also have to complete additional general education courses, depending on what is included in their original nursing education,” said Dr. Ann Warner, dean of the College of Nursing and Health Professions at McNeese. “The 10 online nursing courses can be completed in 10 months if someone is a full-time student and does not need additional courses.”

McNeese also has online graduate nursing programs designed for BSN prepared nurses who want to become nurse practitioners or nurse educators.

“BSN-prepared nurses can choose to complete an MSN and become eligible to certify as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner or a Family Nurse Practitioner. If they are already a nurse practitioner, they can complete a post master’s certificate and certify as a psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner or they can complete a practice doctorate (DNP) and certify as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner.”

McNeese also has an MSN with a focus on nursing education which prepares nurses for roles in academic education or staff development. Graduate programs take longer than 10 months, especially if a student takes classes part time – which most do because they are working and have families.”

The study, conducted by university ranking site Research.com used data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, distance learning data, College Scorecard and the National Center for Education Statistics to look at program length, cost per credit, and more.

In a presentation to the Kiwanis Club, new McNeese State University President Wade Rousse said that nursing graduates have 100 percent placement, and 95 percent of its graduates  have a 98 percent NCLEX (test to become a licensed registered nurse)  pass rate.

According to the study, The University of Louisiana at Monroe has the most cost effective online nursing program in the country, according to the study.

McNeese State University was ranked No. 2. Tallahassee Community College, Florida Southwestern State College and Broward College round out the top five colleges for students looking to save money on their course.