Academics
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette was established in 1898 as the Southwestern Louisiana Industrial Institute, though classes started only in 1901. Over the next 100 years, new buildings were added, curriculum was expanded, and master’s degree programs were introduced. In the light of all these changes, the Southwestern Louisiana Industrial Institute changed its name to University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
As of 2010, the university has more than 15,000 students enrolled in the 115 undergraduate and 28 master degree programs that it offers. It is the only college in the South that offers a doctoral degree in cognitive science. University of Louisiana at Lafayette is among the best colleges in the United States according to a 2011 Forbes study.
The university is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. It is also a member of the Southeastern Universities Research Association and has been ranked as a high research activity university by the Carnegie Foundation. All programs at the university are accredited by corresponding authorities.
There are a total of ten colleges and schools at University of Louisiana at Lafayette:
Students can also enroll in distance and online learning programs. Most programs are hybrid programs requiring at least 20% to 25% of lessons to be completed through regular or evening classes. Distance learning programs are available in business administration, family studies, nursing, education, and management.
