Rooted in history. Driven by innovation. NSU empowers students through affordable, career-focused education and a vibrant, supportive community.
Our Legacy
140 Years of Impact
FOUNDED IN 1885, NSU is Louisiana’s oldest continually occupied site of higher learning, built on tradition and dedicated to student success for generations.
Our Mission
Purpose-Driven Education
Northwestern State University is a responsive, student-oriented institution committed to acquiring, creating, and disseminating knowledge through innovative teaching, research, and service. With its certificate, undergraduate, and graduate programs, Northwestern State University prepares its increasingly diverse student population to contribute to an inclusive global community with a steadfast dedication to improving our region, state, and nation.
Vision for the Future
A Bold Vision for Tomorrow
Northwestern State University will become the nation’s premier regional university through the innovative delivery of transformative student learning experiences that prepare graduates for life and career success.
Leadership
Meet Our Leadership
OUR UNIVERSITY IS GUIDED BY A TEAM of experienced leaders who are deeply committed to student success and institutional excellence.
Traditions
Deep Roots, Lasting Traditions
FROM OUR ICONIC TRIO OF COLUMNS to Demon pride, NSU’s rich traditions unite students, alumni, and faculty in a shared spirit of belonging.
Fast Facts
Numbers that speak for themselves — NSU delivers results with value, support, and career-driven programs designed to launch futures.
#0
in Louisiana for Top Public Schools Regional Universities in the South (U.S. News & World Report)
Top 0
Return on Investment in Louisiana (Georgetown University, 2022)
0%
of NSU students receive scholarships and grants
0%
Job placement rate for College of Nursing graduates.
$0M
Economic impact on northwest and central Louisiana — supporting 7,200+ jobs
Natchitoches (Main Campus)
Nestled in the heart of Natchitoches, NSU’s Main Campus blends historic charm with modern facilities. Whether you’re here for classes, events, or simply to enjoy campus life, you’ll find a vibrant community ready to support your academic and personal growth.
Shreveport Campus
Home to Louisiana’s oldest state-supported nursing school, NSU Shreveport powers healthcare careers with top-ranked nursing and allied health programs.
Address: 1800 Line Avenue, Shreveport, Louisiana 71101
Barksdale Air Force Base
NSU proudly supports our military and veterans at Barksdale with flexible, accredited degrees that fit the demands of service life.
Address: 723 Douhet Drive, BAFB, LA
Alexandria (CENLA)
At the heart of Central Louisiana, NSU CENLA connects students to academic opportunity and workforce-ready programs tailored for real-world success.
Address: 1410 Neel Kearby Blvd., Alexandria, LA 713
Leesville/Fort Polk Campus
Designed for both military and civilian learners, NSU Leesville and Fort Polk offers hands-on programs, degree flexibility, and powerful career outcomes.
Address: 3329 University Parkway, Leesville, LA 71446
Marksville Campus
NSU Marksville brings education close to home, offering local classes, online support, and proctored testing—all within the Tunica-Biloxi community.
Address: 150 Melancon Rd, Marksville, LA 71351
Online Learning
As Louisiana’s first electronic campus, eNSU offers 40+ accredited online degrees, competitive tuition, and unmatched flexibility for working adults and military students.
Address: 150 Melancon Rd, Marksville, LA 71351
