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Colleges / LA / Lake Charles
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McNeese State University

Public Lake Charles, LA · Urban · Southeast · 100% data reported · Agent Insights
49%
Graduation Rate
$46,453
Earnings (10yr)
$12,493
Net Price
78%
Acceptance Rate

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Overview

With an enrollment of 5,005 students and an acceptance rate of 78%, McNeese State University is a solid choice for those looking for a welcoming environment where they can explore their interests in fields like Health Professions, Business & Marketing, and Engineering. The university stands out for its commitment to providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for various career paths. Whether you're drawn to psychology or the humanities, there's a good chance you'll find a program that fits your aspirations.

After graduation, the average earnings for McNeese alumni are $46,453 after ten years. This is a solid figure that reflects the university’s ability to equip students with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. While the graduation rate is 49%, many students find their footing after starting, and the affordability of the education, with a net price of $12,493, makes it accessible for a wide range of families. It’s important to consider how this financial commitment translates into future opportunities.

On the financial side, students typically graduate with a median debt of $23,000. This debt load is manageable, especially when considering the potential earnings graduates can achieve. McNeese tends to attract students who are motivated and eager to make the most of their educational experience, often thriving in this supportive community. With 35% of students receiving Pell Grants, it’s evident that there’s a strong commitment to helping those who need it most.

Rankings

How McNeese Compares

Dot right of center = above national average.

NATIONAL AVGGraduation49%Earnings 10yr$46KNet Price$12KRetention68%Median Debt$23KPell Grant Rate35%

Net Price by Family Income

What families actually pay after aid, by income bracket.

$10K$0-30K$11K$30-48K$12K$48-75K$18K$110K+

The Mobility Equation

Mobility = Access x Success. How many low-income students get in, and how many reach the top 20%?

ACCESS% from bottom 20%1279.3%SUCCESS% who reach top 20%1998.7%MOBILITY255.69%

Cost & Financial Aid

$8,489
In-State Tuition
$9,989
Out-of-State
$12,493
Avg Net Price
$23,000
Median Debt
35%
Pell Grant Rate
32%
Federal Loan Rate

What Families Actually Pay

$10,482
Family Income $0–$30K
$11,067
Family Income $30K–$48K
$11,640
Family Income $48K–$75K
$18,250
Family Income $110K+

Graduate Outcomes

$38,713
6 Years After Entry
$41,254
8 Years
$46,453
10 Years
0.5x
Debt-to-Earnings
62%
Earning > $25K

Earnings Trajectory

$38,713 6yr $41,254 8yr $46,453 10yr

Social Mobility

Data: Raj Chetty's Mobility Report Card · 30M+ anonymized tax records

255.69%
Mobility Rate
Bottom 20% → Top 20%
1998.7%
Success Rate
If bottom 20% get in
1279.3%
From Bottom 20%
Share of students
$75,800
Parent Median Income

Social Capital

Data: Opportunity Insights Social Capital Atlas

1.34
Economic Connectedness
Cross-class friendships
-0.01
Friending Bias
Lower = more inclusive
9.6%
Volunteering Rate
1.00
Support Ratio
Community support

Academics & Admissions

Acceptance Rate 78%
Retention Rate 68%
SAT Average 1087
ACT Midpoint 22
SAT Range 940–1198
ACT Range 18–23
Full-Time Faculty 100%
Faculty Salary (mo) $7,591
Diversity Index 0.58
First-Gen Students 38%

Top Programs

Health Professions 20%
Humanities 17%
Business & Marketing 16%
Engineering 7%
Psychology 6%
Biology & Biomedical 4%
Social Sciences 3%
Visual & Performing Arts 3%