Public research university on Lake Pontchartrain offering engineering, business, and arts programs with strong naval architecture and hospitality specialties.
UNO offers 46 bachelor's, 40 master's, and 17 doctoral degree programs through eight schools and colleges: Business Administration, Engineering, Liberal Arts/Education/Human Development, Sciences, School of the Arts, School of Education, School of Naval Architecture, and Hotel/Restaurant/Tourism. The university is designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Research by the NSA and Department of Homeland Security. Notable strengths include jazz studies (founded 1989 by Ellis Marsalis), naval architecture and marine engineering, and hospitality/tourism administration.
The 195-acre main campus sits on Lake Pontchartrain's shores in Gentilly, just 15 minutes from the French Quarter and 5 minutes from the lakefront. Three on-campus housing options (Pontchartrain Halls, Privateer Place, Lafitte Village) serve residential students. Campus features Earl K. Long Library, University Center, and specialized facilities including the Kiefer UNO Lakefront Arena and Maestri Field. Over 120 registered student organizations, approximately 15 fraternities and sororities, and extensive dining options managed by Chartwells Higher Ed support vibrant student life.
Graduate applicants must hold a bachelor's degree from a USDOE-accredited US institution or equivalent, with minimum 2.5 GPA overall or 2.75 on last 60 undergraduate hours. GRE and GMAT are no longer required for most programs. Graduate application fees are $20 (domestic) and $30 (international). Undergraduate admissions information available through the Office of Admissions; campus visits and virtual tours offered.
90% of UNO graduates are employed within two years of graduation (Niche.com). The university ranks top in Louisiana for lowest student debt and highest early career salaries. Nearly 77% of students receive some form of financial assistance annually, totaling over $41 million in aid and scholarships. UNO is among the top 50 national universities for lowest average student debt (US News & World Report).