McNeese State University is a public institution located in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Established in 1939, it has evolved from a junior college to a comprehensive university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is part of the University of Louisiana System and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.
Academic Programs: McNeese comprises six colleges and the Doré School of Graduate Studies, offering programs in fields such as agricultural sciences, business, education, liberal arts, nursing and health professions, and science, engineering, and math. Notably, it was the first university in Louisiana to offer a concentration in forensic chemistry and one of the first to offer a concentration in terrorism, preparedness, and security.
Campus and Facilities: The main campus spans 121 acres and features 51 buildings, including historic structures like Kaufman Hall and Francis G. Bulber Auditorium, the latter being listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The university also boasts specialized facilities such as the Legacy Center for health and human performance, and the Jack V. Doland Field House, which houses athletic offices and a Hall of Fame room.
Athletics: McNeese’s athletic teams, known as the Cowboys (men’s) and Cowgirls (women’s), compete in NCAA Division I as part of the Southland Conference. The university has a rich athletic history, including multiple appearances in NCAA tournaments across various sports. In men’s basketball, McNeese secured the Southland Conference championship in 2024, earning a spot in the NCAA tournament.
Recent Achievements: In the 2025 Southland Conference men’s basketball championship, McNeese clinched the title with a 63-54 victory over Lamar University. This win marked their second consecutive conference title and earned them an automatic berth in the NCAA tournament. Guard Quadir Copeland led the team with 18 points in the championship game.
For more detailed information about McNeese State University, including admissions, programs, and campus life, you can visit their official website at www.mcneese.edu.