McNeese State University Overview

McNeese State University is a four-year, full-time, selective, lower transfer-in, higher education institution located in Lake Charles, LA. It has an enrollment of 5,202 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 68.76%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $10,161. Tuition is $8,380.00 without financial aid.

McNeese State University is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At McNeese State University, 69.44% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

McNeese State University has a student-to-faculty ratio of 19 to 1.

McNeese State University Website

McNeese State University Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 68.76%.

SAT or ACT scores are required

• The average SAT score was 1116.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 22.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

McNeese State University Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $10,161. The in-state tuition is $8,380.00. Out-of-state tuition is $16,418.00

The average tuition is:

• $7,487, when family income is less than $30,000

• $8,035, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $11,603, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $14,467, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $14,320, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 32.13% of students received a federal student loan and 31.10% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $16,418.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

McNeese State University Net Price Calculator

McNeese State University Majors/Salaries

McNeese State University has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at McNeese State University here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Agriculture, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,594
• Communication and Media Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,818
• Computer Science. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $47,260
• Educational Administration and Supervision. (Master’s Degree) – $48,139
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,295
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Post-baccalaureate Certificate) – $39,369
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Master’s Degree) – $43,240
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $46,673
• Engineering, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $69,338
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. (Associate’s Degree) – $24,035
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $29,006
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,649
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Master’s Degree) – $36,848
• Chemistry. (Master’s Degree) – $44,384
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,869
• Psychology, General. (Master’s Degree) – $44,835
• Criminal Justice and Corrections. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,332
• Sociology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $31,462
• Fine and Studio Arts. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $15,182
• Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $42,123
• Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $49,136
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Associate’s Degree) – $54,252
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $58,104
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Master’s Degree) – $96,345
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,806
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $61,814
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,829
• Finance and Financial Management Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $41,565
• Marketing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,954
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $39,729

McNeese State University Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at McNeese State University

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.44%
• Asian: 1.54%
• Black: 15.51%
• Hispanic: 4.15%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.10%
• Non-resident alien: 5.57%
• Two or more races: 3.94%
• Unknown: 0.56%
• White: 68.19%

At McNeese State University, 13.76% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

McNeese State University Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at McNeese State University?

McNeese State University has a strong school spirit and students and alumni take pride in their university. The university’s athletic teams, known as the McNeese Cowboys and Cowgirls, participate in various sports and there is a large turnout for games and events. Additionally, the university hosts a range of events and activities throughout the year, such as homecoming, pep rallies, a rodeo, and more, which allow students to show their school spirit and connect with the campus community. Overall, McNeese State University has a vibrant campus culture and a strong sense of pride in being a Cowboy or Cowgirl.

What are some popular extracurriculars at McNeese State University?

McNeese State University offers a variety of extracurricular activities for students to get involved in. Some of the popular extracurriculars at McNeese State University include: 1. Student Government Association 2. Greek Life 3. Intramural Sports 4. Club Sports 5. Service Organizations, such as the Rotaract Club 6. Academic Clubs, such as the Chemistry Club, Accounting Club, or the Nursing Student Association 7. Honors Societies, such as Phi Kappa Phi, Alpha Chi or Psi Chi 8. Cultural Organizations, such as the International Student Association or the Black Student Union These are just a few examples of the extracurricular opportunities available at McNeese State University, and students are encouraged to explore and find the activities that best suit their interests and passions.

How are the food choices at McNeese State University?

McNeese State University offers a variety of food choices to students. On campus, there are multiple dining options such as a food court, coffee shop, grill, and many other food vendors. The food court offers various food items such as pizza, burgers, tacos, salads, and more. Additionally, there are healthy food options and vegetarian/vegan options available. Also, the university has a meal plan system allowing students to get discounts on their food purchases. Overall, students at McNeese State University have plenty of food options to choose from.

Is there Greek life at McNeese State University?

Yes, McNeese State University has several Greek organizations on campus. The university has 7 fraternities and sororities recognized by the National Panhellenic Council, as well as several multi-cultural organizations, service organizations, and honor societies. Participation in Greek life can provide students with opportunities for leadership development, community service, and social activities.

What is McNeese State University known for?

McNeese State University is a public university located in Lake Charles, Louisiana. It is known for its programs in fields such as engineering, nursing, business, education and the liberal arts. McNeese is particularly well-regarded for its engineering program, which has consistently been recognized as one of the top programs in the state of Louisiana. Additionally, McNeese is home to the Harold and Pearl Dripps School of Agricultural Sciences, which offers a range of degree programs in fields such as animal science, agribusiness, and plant science. The university also has a strong athletic program, with teams competing in the Southland Conference of the NCAA Division I.

What are the most popular school clubs at McNeese State University?

McNeese State University offers a range of student organizations and clubs that cater to a variety of interests. Some of the most popular clubs at McNeese State University are: 1. Greek Life: McNeese has several fraternities and sororities that provide opportunities for students to network, develop leadership skills, and make lasting connections. 2. Campus Activities Board: This club plans and hosts a variety of events on campus, including movies, concerts, and other social gatherings. 3. Student Government Association: The SGA is responsible for representing the student body and providing opportunities for students to voice their concerns and get involved in campus governance. 4. Service Organizations: Several service organizations, such as Alpha Phi Omega, provide opportunities for students to engage in volunteer work and give back to the community. 5. Honor Societies: McNeese has a number of academic honor societies, including Phi Kappa Phi and Alpha Chi, that recognize and reward academic excellence. These clubs are just a few examples of the many student organizations and clubs available at McNeese State University.

Is the campus at McNeese State University safe?

McNeese State University has implemented a number of safety measures on its campus in recent years, such as increasing police patrols, installing numerous cameras, and improving lighting. As a result of these efforts, the university’s crime rate has decreased. However, as with any campus, it is still important to take precautions and use common sense when walking around after dark. In general, McNeese State University is considered to be a safe campus.