University History
In 1959, the Louisiana Legislature authorized the establishment of LSUA as a two-year commuter college under the governance of the LSU Board of Supervisors. LSUA registered its first students in September of 1960. The first degree program, an Associate in Nursing degree, was initiated in the Division of Nursing in 1964.
The additional academic divisions of Liberal Arts, Business Administration, and Sciences were created in 1967. In 1974, LSUA was accredited by the Commission on 吃瓜直播s of the Southern Association of 吃瓜直播s and Schools (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees. This accreditation was reaffirmed in 1984, 1994, and 2004.
Only one associate degree was available at LSUA from 1964 to March 1986, when the Associate of Arts and Associate of Science transfer degrees were approved. Over the next 15 years, several associate degree and certificate programs were added that the university continues to offer including:
- Associate of Science in Clinical Laboratory Science (1996)
- Associate of Arts in The Care and Development of Young Children (Spring 2001)
- Certificate in Pharmacy Technology (Spring 2001)
- Associate of Science in Radiologic Technology (Fall 2001)
From 1976 through Spring 2003, Louisiana State University and Agricultural and Mechanical 吃瓜直播 offered the upper-level course work for select bachelor's degree programs on the LSUA campus through a program known as LSU Senior 吃瓜直播. Initially, the Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and Bachelor of General Studies were offered. The Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education was added in 1982-83.
LSUA Celebrates Remarkable Spring 2024 Enrollment Surge, Exceeding 5,400 Students
Louisiana State University of Alexandria (LSUA) continues its rise as the fastest-growing public university in Louisiana, with Spring 2024 enrollment reaching an all-time high of 5,405 students. This momentous achievement represents a 35.5% increase over the last year, solidifying LSUA's position as a university of choice.
LSUA surpassed its goal of 5,000 students in the fall of 2023, two years ahead of schedule, with a staggering 24% enrollment increase over the previous year. Spring 2024's enrollment growth of an additional 5.9% since this fall semester marks a significant milestone for LSUA, as it is the first time spring enrollment has exceeded fall figures since the university became a 4-year institution two decades ago. LSUA's ability to buck the national trend of declining enrollment demonstrates its resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment to student success and excellence.
Deron Thaxton, LSUA鈥檚 Executive Vice Chancellor, said: 鈥淲ith our latest enrollment figures showing an unprecedented increase from last spring, it鈥檚 clear that LSUA is not just expanding, we're evolving. We are not the LSUA from 20 years ago or even five! We are no longer just a regional campus; LSUA is the university of choice in Louisiana and beyond. Our growth is a robust affirmation of our commitment to accessible, top-tier education.鈥�
LSUA's online programs witnessed an extraordinary 58.7% rise in enrollment compared to the previous spring, with 2,727 students. Meanwhile, on-campus enrollment soared by 17.6% since Spring 2023, totaling 2,677 students. The university's diverse student body now represents all 50 states and 24 countries, reflecting LSUA's growing reputation as a preferred destination for students seeking a transformative educational experience.
Notably, LSUA boasts a remarkable 90% retention rate, with 9 out of 10 first-time freshmen returning this spring. This exceptional retention rate is a nod to the Division of Student Engagement's robust offerings of on-campus activities, the vibrant atmosphere, and the unwavering personal support provided by faculty and staff. LSUA's commitment to nurturing student success and fostering a sense of belonging has resulted in a thriving community where students feel valued, supported, and empowered to achieve their academic and personal goals.
Vice Chancellor for Student Engagement Abbey Bain, Ph.D., noted: 鈥淟SUA continues to experience unprecedented growth. We are seeing more students interested in attending LSUA, and with a 90% fall-to-spring retention rate, more students are staying at LSUA, too. With innovative degree programs and exciting events on campus, it is the best time to be a General! Students see the benefit of learning in a close-knit family environment, a feeling that truly sets LSUA apart from any other university in the state or region. Now is the right time to enroll at LSUA because we are just getting started!鈥�
Shelly Gill, LSUA鈥檚 Associate Vice Chancellor of Enrollment Management, added: 鈥淟SUA has many innovative degree programs that attract students from all over the nation. Whether on-campus or online, the assistance applicants receive through the entire enrollment process is individualized and tailored to each student's unique experience. We invite anyone looking to further their education to contact us for an appointment to learn how to become a General!鈥�
As LSUA continues its trajectory of growth and excellence, the university remains steadfast in its mission to provide affordable, accessible, innovative, and high-quality education that transforms lives and strengthens communities.
For more information about LSUA and its academic programs, visit .