Nicholls capitalizes on its prime location and rich culture by offering distinctive academic programs in culinary arts, geomatics, maritime management, marine and environmental science, petroleum services and safety technology. The university serves a large population of college students and has consistently been designated as a Military Friendly School. The 287-acre Thibodaux campus is located approximately 50 miles west of New Orleans and 60 miles southeast of Baton Rouge. The university is named in honor of Francis Redding Tillou Nicholls, who was born on Aug. 20, 1834, in Donaldsonville, La. Located in Cajun Country, Nicholls lies in the heart of the Mississippi River delta, allowing for easy access to the river, its tributaries, Louisianas wetlands and the Gulf of Mexico. The 287-acre Thibodaux campus is approximately 50 miles west of New Orleans and 60 miles southeast of Baton Rouge. For more than half a century, the universitys strong general education program has prepared students to be leaders in a global society and has enhanced their ability to create a vision for the future. Nicholls capitalizes on the regions geography and culture by offering distinctive academic programs in the culinary arts and geomatics. With its prime location along the banks of Bayou Lafourche, Nicholls also provides unique opportunities for instruction and research in the fields of marine and environmental science. The university has assumed a leadership role in an area known for its agricultural, fishing, petrochemical and oilfield-related industries. Nicholls continues to contribute significantly to the regions growth in new technology, manufacturing and international trade. By maintaining partnerships with businesses, local school systems, community agencies and other educational institutions, Nicholls actively participates in the south-central Louisianas development. The university maintains a strong commitment to the well-being of local residents. Through the expansion of health science programs, Nicholls collaborates with a nationally recognized health care industry in the Houma-Thibodaux area.