University of Louisiana at Lafayette Logo University of Louisiana at Lafayette

Address: University of Louisiana at Lafayette, 104 University Cir, Lafayette, LA 70503, USA

Phone: +1 337-482-0000

Email: admissions@louisiana.edu

Website: www.louisiana.edu


For international students applying to the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, meeting English language proficiency requirements is essential, as the university conducts all instruction in English. The main requirements and accepted tests are as follows:

1. Accepted English Proficiency Tests

  • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language):
    • Undergraduate: Minimum score of 70 (Internet-based).
    • Graduate: Minimum score of 81 (Internet-based).
  • IELTS (International English Language Testing System):
    • Undergraduate: Minimum overall band score of 6.0.
    • Graduate: Minimum overall band score of 6.5.
  • Duolingo English Test:
    • Undergraduate: Minimum score of 95.
    • Graduate: Minimum score of 105.
  • PTE Academic (Pearson Test of English):
    • Minimum score requirements vary; typically around 58-61.

2. Alternative Pathways

  • English Language Institute (ELI): Students who do not meet the English proficiency requirement may enroll in UL Lafayette’s English Language Institute, which provides intensive English instruction. Upon completion, students may qualify to enter degree programs without needing to retake a proficiency test.
  • Conditional Admission: UL Lafayette may offer conditional admission to some students, allowing them to start at the English Language Institute and transition into their degree programs once they meet the language requirement.

3. Exemptions from Language Requirements

  • Some students may be exempt from English language testing if they have completed a certain level of education in an English-speaking country or have a qualifying score on the SAT or ACT for undergraduate admission. Graduate programs may also offer exemptions based on prior education or other criteria.

Meeting the language requirements is important for ensuring students can actively participate and succeed in their academic programs at UL Lafayette.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette) is known for several standout programs and course specialties across various disciplines. Here are some of its notable areas:

1. Engineering and Computer Science

  • Petroleum Engineering: UL Lafayette has a strong reputation for its Petroleum Engineering program, given its location in Louisiana, a major hub for the energy industry. The program offers practical training and industry partnerships.
  • Computer Science and Informatics: UL Lafayette is known for its Computer Science program, particularly with concentrations in cybersecurity, video game design, and data science. The university’s Center for Advanced Computer Studies (CACS) is well-regarded for research in these fields.
  • Chemical and Mechanical Engineering: Both programs emphasize hands-on experience and are recognized for their industry connections.

2. Nursing and Health Sciences

  • Nursing: UL Lafayette's College of Nursing and Health Sciences is one of the largest and most respected in Louisiana. The nursing program is known for its clinical training and high job placement rates.
  • Kinesiology and Exercise Science: This program is popular for students interested in sports science, physical therapy, and athletic training.

3. Business and Management

  • Hospitality Management: Located in a region with a vibrant hospitality and tourism industry, UL Lafayette’s Hospitality Management program is highly regarded, with courses covering event planning, tourism management, and restaurant management.
  • Business Administration and Entrepreneurship: The B.I. Moody III College of Business Administration offers well-regarded programs in areas like entrepreneurship, finance, and marketing, often connecting students with local businesses for internships and projects.

4. Environmental and Biological Sciences

  • Environmental Science: UL Lafayette is known for its environmental science program, particularly in coastal ecology and wetland management, which are critical areas of study in Louisiana.
  • Biology: The biology program offers specializations in areas such as ecology, evolutionary biology, and marine science, benefiting from the university’s proximity to diverse ecosystems.

5. Cajun and Creole Studies

  • UL Lafayette is unique for its offerings in Cajun and Creole Studies, focusing on the history, language, and culture of the region’s Cajun and Creole communities. This interdisciplinary program covers folklore, history, music, and language preservation.

6. Architecture and Design

  • Industrial Design: UL Lafayette’s School of Architecture and Design offers an Industrial Design program that focuses on sustainable design and product development.
  • Architecture: Known for its practical and sustainability-focused curriculum, the architecture program includes hands-on learning with a strong emphasis on designing for the regional environment.

7. Performing Arts and Visual Arts

  • Music (Traditional Music): The School of Music offers a unique concentration in traditional Cajun and Creole music, reflecting the rich musical heritage of the region.
  • Dance and Theatre: UL Lafayette’s dance and theatre programs are known for their high-quality training and community performances, providing ample opportunity for student involvement.

8. Education

  • Special Education and Early Childhood Education: The College of Education offers well-regarded programs in teacher education, including special education and early childhood education, with a focus on preparing educators to work in diverse classroom environments.

9. Liberal Arts and Social Sciences

  • History and Francophone Studies: Louisiana’s unique cultural background is emphasized in programs like Francophone Studies, which explores the influence of French culture in Louisiana and beyond.
  • Political Science: The Political Science program is recognized for its emphasis on public policy and administration, with many graduates finding roles in local government.

These course specialties at UL Lafayette reflect its connection to the cultural and environmental uniqueness of Louisiana, as well as its dedication to providing practical, job-ready skills across a variety of fields.

At the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, several professors are highly regarded for their expertise, research, and contributions to their fields. Here are a few notable faculty members:

1. Dr. Paul Darby – Petroleum Engineering

  • Dr. Darby is a respected figure in petroleum engineering, particularly known for his work in drilling technologies and oilfield development. Given Louisiana's role in the energy sector, his research and industry connections provide valuable opportunities for students.

2. Dr. Geoffrey Stewart – Marketing and Hospitality Management

  • Dr. Stewart is recognized for his research on customer satisfaction, consumer behavior, and business ethics. His work is particularly relevant to Louisiana’s tourism and hospitality industries, where he collaborates with local businesses to improve service quality and sustainable practices.

3. Dr. Brian Schwartzkopf – Computer Science

  • Dr. Schwartzkopf is a faculty member in the Center for Advanced Computer Studies and specializes in areas such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. His expertise is valuable to students in computer science and the growing field of data science.

4. Dr. Michael Desmond – Biology and Coastal Ecology

  • Dr. Desmond's research focuses on coastal and wetland ecosystems, which are essential to Louisiana's environment. He is involved in important projects related to coastal restoration and environmental sustainability, making him a key resource for students in environmental science and biology.

5. Dr. Robert Carriker – History and Cajun/Creole Studies

  • Dr. Carriker is an expert in Louisiana history, particularly the cultural heritage of the Cajun and Creole communities. His work in promoting and preserving Louisiana’s unique history is central to the university’s Center for Louisiana Studies.

These professors contribute significantly to their fields and provide students with both practical skills and research experience, often tailored to the unique environmental and cultural needs of the region.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette does not have any Nobel laureates among its alumni or faculty to date. Its focus has historically been on regional and applied research, particularly in areas like environmental science, coastal studies, computer science, and Cajun/Creole studies, rather than on the types of theoretical research more commonly recognized by the Nobel Prize committees.

UL Lafayette continues to grow in its research capabilities, particularly through its Center for Advanced Computer Studies, environmental programs, and cultural studies. While the university hasn’t produced a Nobel Prize winner, it has a significant impact on regional development and is known for contributions to fields that are crucial to Louisiana and the Gulf Coast region.

Established in 1898, the  University of Louisiana at Lafayette is a non-profit public higher  education institution located in the urban setting of the small city of Lafayette (population range of 50,000-249,999 inhabitants), Louisiana. Officially accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette) is a large-sized (uniRank enrollment range: 15,000-19,999 students) coeducational US higher education institution. University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. See the uniRank degree levels and areas of study table below for further details. This 126-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 70-79% making this US higher education organization a moderately selective institution. International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. UL Lafayette also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.

The University of Louisiana at Lafayette (UL Lafayette) is known for its unique academic offerings, cultural heritage, and contributions to research, especially in fields closely tied to Louisiana’s environment and culture. Here are a few reasons UL Lafayette is well-regarded:

1. Strong Programs in Energy and Engineering

  • UL Lafayette is particularly known for its Petroleum Engineering program, one of the strongest in the region, given Louisiana's role in the oil and gas industry. Graduates often secure jobs in this competitive field due to the program’s focus on real-world applications and industry connections.
  • The Center for Advanced Computer Studies (CACS) also places UL Lafayette on the map for innovation in computer science and cybersecurity, with a focus on research that addresses practical issues and prepares students for emerging technology fields.

2. Focus on Cajun and Creole Culture

  • UL Lafayette is nationally recognized for its dedication to preserving and promoting Cajun and Creole culture, which reflects the rich and unique heritage of southern Louisiana. The university offers programs in Cajun and Creole Studies, traditional music, and folklore, drawing students and researchers interested in these specialized areas.

3. Research in Environmental Science and Coastal Studies

  • Given its proximity to the Gulf Coast and Louisiana’s unique ecological challenges, UL Lafayette has strong programs in environmental science, coastal ecology, and wetland management. The university's research initiatives focus on coastal restoration, flood management, and sustainability, addressing issues critical to the state and region.

4. Center for Louisiana Studies

  • The Center for Louisiana Studies at UL Lafayette is a prominent institution for research, preservation, and education on Louisiana’s cultural history. This center is renowned for its role in preserving and promoting Louisiana’s unique history, language, and folklore through publications, exhibitions, and academic programs.

5. Francophone Studies

  • UL Lafayette is a hub for Francophone Studies, reflecting the French influence in Louisiana’s culture. The program draws scholars interested in studying French-speaking cultures, especially those within Louisiana, Canada, and other regions influenced by French heritage.

6. Community Engagement and Public Service

  • The university emphasizes community service and public engagement, often partnering with local industries, schools, and organizations. This mission aligns with its practical approach to education and commitment to improving life in Louisiana, especially through projects that address local economic, educational, and social issues.

7. Growing Reputation in Nursing and Health Sciences

  • UL Lafayette’s College of Nursing and Health Sciences is one of the largest in Louisiana, recognized for producing skilled healthcare professionals. Its nursing program is known for high pass rates on licensure exams and strong job placement rates.

8. Athletics and School Spirit

  • Known as the Ragin' Cajuns, UL Lafayette’s sports teams, particularly in football and baseball, have built a dedicated fan base and brought attention to the university. Their participation in NCAA Division I athletics contributes to school spirit and community pride.

UL Lafayette’s reputation is rooted in its commitment to both academic excellence and cultural preservation, providing an educational experience that’s deeply connected to Louisiana’s history, environment, and future.