Southeastern Louisiana University vs LA Tech

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences between Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) and Louisiana Tech University (LA Tech)?

  Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) is a comprehensive regional university known for its strong programs in nursing, education, and the arts. It offers a more intimate campus environment and a broader range of liberal arts programs. Louisiana Tech University (LA Tech), on the other hand, is a nationally recognized STEM-focused university with a strong emphasis on engineering, technology, and applied sciences. LA Tech is known for its 'Living with the Lab' curriculum and its focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. SLU is located in Hammond, LA, offering a more suburban setting, while LA Tech is in Ruston, LA, a smaller college town.

• Which university is better known for its engineering programs: SLU or LA Tech?

  Louisiana Tech University (LA Tech) is significantly better known and highly regarded for its engineering programs. It has a long-standing reputation for producing highly skilled engineers and boasts state-of-the-art facilities and research opportunities in various engineering disciplines. While SLU offers engineering technology programs, LA Tech's engineering programs are more comprehensive and research-intensive.

• How do the tuition costs compare between Southeastern and Louisiana Tech?

  Generally, tuition costs at Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) are slightly lower than those at Louisiana Tech University (LA Tech). However, the exact cost can vary depending on your residency status (in-state vs. out-of-state), chosen program, and any applicable fees. It's best to check the official websites of both universities for the most up-to-date tuition and fee schedules.

• What is the campus environment like at SLU versus LA Tech?

  Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) offers a more relaxed and community-oriented campus environment. It's known for its friendly atmosphere and strong sense of school spirit. Louisiana Tech University (LA Tech) has a more academically focused and technologically driven campus environment. While still friendly, the emphasis is more on innovation, research, and STEM-related activities. Both universities offer a variety of student organizations and activities to enhance the campus experience.

• Which university has a stronger focus on the arts and humanities?

  Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) generally has a stronger focus on the arts and humanities compared to Louisiana Tech University (LA Tech). SLU offers a wider range of programs in areas like visual arts, performing arts, music, English, and history. While LA Tech does offer some arts and humanities programs, its primary focus is on STEM fields.

• What are the career opportunities like after graduating from SLU versus LA Tech?

  Career opportunities after graduating from either Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) or Louisiana Tech University (LA Tech) depend heavily on your chosen field of study. SLU graduates often find opportunities in education, healthcare, business, and the arts, particularly within Louisiana and the surrounding region. LA Tech graduates are highly sought after in engineering, technology, and related industries, with opportunities available both regionally and nationally. LA Tech's strong industry connections often lead to internships and job placements for its graduates.

• How do the student populations compare at SLU and LA Tech?

  Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) and Louisiana Tech University (LA Tech) have similar student populations, both typically enrolling between 10,000 and 15,000 students. However, the demographic makeup may differ slightly. SLU tends to draw a larger proportion of students from southeastern Louisiana, while LA Tech attracts students from a wider geographic area, including out-of-state and international students, particularly in its STEM programs.

• Does either university have a particularly strong program in nursing?

  Yes, Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) has a very strong and well-regarded nursing program. It's one of the university's flagship programs and is known for producing highly qualified nurses who are well-prepared for careers in healthcare. While LA Tech may offer some health-related programs, it does not have a nursing program with the same level of prominence or focus as SLU.

• Which university is better for someone interested in a 'Living with the Lab' type of learning environment?

  Louisiana Tech University (LA Tech) is the university known for its 'Living with the Lab' curriculum. This innovative approach integrates hands-on, project-based learning into the curriculum across various disciplines, particularly in engineering and the sciences. If you're looking for a university that emphasizes experiential learning and practical application of knowledge, LA Tech is the better choice.

• Are there any notable differences in the athletic programs at SLU and LA Tech?

  Both Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) and Louisiana Tech University (LA Tech) have NCAA Division I athletic programs. LA Tech competes in Conference USA, while SLU competes in the Southland Conference. LA Tech generally has a higher profile in athletics, particularly in football and basketball, due to its conference affiliation and historical success. However, both universities offer a variety of sports and provide opportunities for student-athletes to compete at the collegiate level.