Higher Education
The Greater New Orleans region boasts a diverse and strong base of higher education institutions, including 10 four-year universities, 2 medical schools, 2 two-year colleges, 3 Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and a variety of technical and vocational schools.
These vibrant institutions provide strong educational services, serve as a hub of research activity and related entrepreneur development, act as active community participants, and play an important role in preparing a skilled regional workforce across multiple industries.
Higher Education is a major economic engine for the Greater New Orleans area, developing skilled workers and strengthening and diversifying the region’s economy. In 2007, approximately 10,000 people were employed in this industry.
Louisiana recognizes Higher Education as an economic sector deserving attention and has increased higher education funding by 102%. The result has been a 244.9% increase in the number of associate degrees awarded in science and technology and an increase of 156.9% in business and management. Baccalaureate degrees for science and technology have increased by 34.8% and business and managements as increased by 39.7%.
The state has also demonstrated strong support for research and development, recently creating and funding over $25 million for a research commercialization and education enhancement program designed to increase research ; invest in research talent; and to enhance the quality and availability of undergraduate and graduate education and training in targeted disciplines. This investment is on top of the state’s ongoing $40 million commitment to the Louisiana Optical Network Initiative to join the National LambdaRail project and link eight research universities in Louisiana to each other and beyond, enabling national and international partnerships.
The region’s community and technical colleges support a demand-driven, employer-led workforce system by providing associates degree programs for production, maintenance and administrative careers. These schools offer targeted curriculum in advanced manufacturing, computer information technology, engineering technology, construction, mechanics, maintenance, precision production, transportation and materials, and business management. as well as work-based training in basic skills directly related to specific occupations, and on-the-job training, dual, incumbent worker ), and pre-employment training programs.
News in The Region
GNO Inc. intensifies focus on digital media industry
GNO Digital Media Alliance launches
Idea Village and GNO Inc. win $1M Rockefeller Foundation grant
Grant to create affordable, worker housing
Armstrong close to landing deal for AeroMexico service
International service may return to MSY
