Acceptance Rate
74%
Avg. SAT
1241
75th percentile
“A vibrant public university in the heart of New Orleans, blending academic grit with the city's soulful rhythm.”
New Orleans, LA
Location
Large City
Campus Setting
Nestled in the lively, culturally rich city of New Orleans, the University of New Orleans (UNO) stands as a public institution with a unique story. Founded in 1958 as the first fully integrated public university in the South, UNO emerged with a mission to provide accessible higher education to a diverse population. Its lakeside campus, bordering Lake Pontchartrain, offers a striking contrast to the bustling French Quarter just a short drive away, giving students a blend of serene study spaces and urban excitement.
This university thrives as a haven for independent, adaptable students who are drawn to a non-traditional college experience. If you’re someone who loves immersing yourself in a city’s culture—think jazz on every corner, Mardi Gras parades, and Creole cuisine—you’ll find a second home here. However, the urban setting and commuter-heavy student body mean that campus life can feel less tight-knit than at more isolated or residential-focused schools, so self-starters who can build their own community will shine brightest.
The tradeoff of being in such a dynamic city is that distractions abound, and the campus itself has faced challenges recovering from events like Hurricane Katrina, with some facilities still showing wear. Budget constraints as a public university can also mean fewer resources compared to larger state flagships. Still, UNO’s deep ties to New Orleans give it a gritty, authentic charm that’s hard to replicate, perfect for students who want their college years flavored with real-world vibrancy.
Photo Gallery
+11
+3
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
Test-optional schools still weigh strong scores. Submitting can help.
Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Available Online
Degree Levels Offered
At the University of New Orleans, academics carry a practical, career-focused edge, reflecting the city’s entrepreneurial and creative spirit. Known for its strong programs in business, hospitality, and tourism management, UNO prepares students for industries that drive the local economy—think managing hotels during Mardi Gras or navigating port logistics along the Mississippi. The university also boasts a respected film and theatre department, tapping into New Orleans’ reputation as a hub for movie production, often dubbed 'Hollywood South.'
Classroom experiences here vary widely; introductory courses can be large, especially in popular fields, which might leave you feeling like just a number at first. However, smaller upper-level classes and dedicated faculty often foster closer connections as you progress. Research opportunities exist, particularly in coastal and environmental studies due to the region’s unique geography, but funding and access to cutting-edge facilities may lag behind bigger research institutions, so you’ll need to be proactive to seize those chances.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
5,419 undergrad • 1,082 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
45%
Black / African American
22%
Hispanic / Latino
14%
Asian
8%
Other / Multi-racial
12%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
New Orleans, LA
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at UNO pulses with the eclectic energy of New Orleans, though it’s not the classic college-town bubble many envision. With a significant number of commuter students, the campus can feel quieter on weekends, but when you’re here, you’ll find events like jazz performances and cultural festivals that mirror the city’s spirit. Traditions often tie into local celebrations—Mardi Gras is a campus-wide affair, with students decking out in purple, green, and gold, and the annual Crawfish Muster brings everyone together for a boil by the lake.
Socially, you can expect a laid-back vibe, but building a tight circle might take extra effort since many students juggle jobs or live off-campus. The surrounding city offers endless entertainment, from live music on Frenchman Street to late-night beignets, though the cost of living in New Orleans can strain a student budget, especially if you’re drawn to off-campus housing in pricier areas. Weather-wise, prepare for hot, humid summers and the occasional storm threat, which can disrupt routines but also teach resilience.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Southland Conference
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
Yes
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA to unlock grants, scholarships, and federal loans.
Costs shown are before financial aid. Most students receive some form of aid. Complete the FAFSA to see what you qualify for.
Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
67%
4 Years Graduation Rate
29%
6 Years Graduation Rate
42%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$47,872
67% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at University of New Orleans and return in the fall. 29% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 42% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
29%
4-5 years
13%
6-8 years
2%
Non-grad
56%
Let’s find your perfect tutor
Answer a few quick questions. We’ll recommend the right plan and match you with a top 5% tutor.
Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$6,090
Acceptance
74%
Undergrads
5,419
4-Year Grad Rate
29%
Endowment
$25M
New Orleans, LA 70148