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Get Matched With Mississippi Programs
The State of Mississippi has eight publicly funded Universities located across the state from the Delta region to North East Mississippi. Overall, Mississippi’s colleges and universities are among the strongest academic institutions in the entire southern region of the US. Mississippi State University in Starkville Mississippi is the state’s land grant college. It has a long history of leadership in the fields of agriculture and applied science. It is the largest campus in the state and it has an expansive international student program. The University of Mississippi or ‘Ole Miss’ is the flagship school in the state. Delta State located in Cleveland is in Mississippi’s Delta region.
Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi is a Historically Black College and is the official Urban University of the State of Mississippi. Alcorn State is the oldest HBCU in the nation. Tougaloo College, ranked as one the best values in education in Mississippi, is a private historically Black College and is a top-rated school for science and engineering. The Mississippi College for Women is a leading school for nursing.
What are the most popular bachelor's degrees offered in Mississippi?
Mississippi students have a wide range of majors and professional training. Business, healthcare, nursing, and natural sciences are the leading majors based on the types of degrees conferred. They reflect in majors like Sociology, Psychology, Economics, Chemistry, Elementary Education, and Teaching. Many students choose majors with a view towards entering a particular field after graduation. Business majors rank among the best-paid graduates.
Top degrees in Mississippi include:
- Business and Business Management
- Health Professions
- Humanities Degrees
- Natural Sciences
How Much Can You Make by Having a Degree in Mississippi
The impact of education on income is significant. Incomes rise directly with the level of education. Recent studies have highlighted some of the important differences. A bachelor degree holder earns an average of $17,500 more per year than a high school graduate. Over the course of a lifetime of earnings, college graduates earn about one million dollars more than those with a high school diploma or GED.
Bachelor degree holders also get a wider range of opportunities for promotion including entry into higher-paying occupations and brand new industries. A degree combines with work experience to produce superior earnings, a wide range of promotional opportunities, and access to emerging sectors driven by technology and innovation.
Education Level & National Average Median Compensation
| NO FORMAL EDUCATION | HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA | ASSOCIATE DEGREE | BACHELOR’S DEGREE | MASTER’S DEGREE | DOCTORAL DEGREE |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $30,784* | $38,792* | $46,124* | $64,896* | $77,844* | $96,772* |
*National Average Earnings by Degree Level
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Most Popular Degrees and Careers in Mississippi
Mississippi has a long tradition of agriculture. It is a physically large state with vital access to waterways and the Gulf of Mexico. The economy has evolved and diversified through a mix of manufacturing and high-tech hubs. The growth trends include electronics and automobiles. The demand for graduates with degrees in business is strong, and so too are the health professions, teaching, and finance occupations.
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Top Business Management Careers and Salaries
- Buyers and Purchasing Agents carry out purchases and contracts to meet the organization's needs for supplies and inventory. These skilled professionals must work markets and achieve the most advantageous purchasing arrangements.
- Compliance Officers manage processes within companies or organizations that meet reporting requirements. Compliance with applicable laws, regulations, and financial reporting requirements is needed to stay within the rules that govern the organization and its activities.
- Human Resources Specialists help recruit needed talent and retain key personnel. They oversee reward and benefits programs, employee development, training, and education.
- Management Analysts perform analysis and gather information to make organization processes and functions more efficient. They perform critical assessments and provide continuous improvements.
- Accountants and Auditors ensure that the books of the organization meet generally accepted accounting principles for organizing financial information. These skilled professionals issue official reports and confirm the accuracy of essential items like income, expenses, and reserves.
- Business Administrators
- Business Careers
- Business Managers
- Financial Analyst
- Marketing Managers
- Entrepreneurship
- Human Resources Manager
- Organizational Leader
- Project Manager
| CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|---|
| Buyers and Purchasing Agents | 2,150 | $49,400 |
| Compliance Officers | 2,030 | $69,700 |
| Human Resources Specialists | 3,060 | $51,500 |
| Management Analysts | 1,730 | $67,500 |
| Accountants and Auditors | 5,780 | $57,400 |
Best Mississippi Schools for Business and Management
- Mississippi State University
- University of Mississippi
- Mississippi College
- Millsaps College
- University of Southern Mississippi
Top Education Careers and Salaries
- Elementary School Teachers help students transition between early learning years and the years when they’ll be expected to start learning on their own time and choosing a career.
- Substitute Teachers maintain the consistency of a student’s learning, filling in when the regular teachers are unavoidably kept from their jobs.
- Librarians, the keepers of knowledge are there to assist students in their learning endeavors.
- High school teachers help students figure out what they want to study in college, teaching them more in-depth studies than they have learned before.
- Health Specialties Teachers Post-secondary provide instruction in major fields of health studies to college students.
- Preschool Teachers
| CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|---|
| Elementary School Teachers | 12,340 | $46,400 |
| Substitute Teachers | 7,690 | $29,200 |
| Librarians | 1,370 | $50,800 |
| High School Teachers | 8,850 | $50,300 |
| Health Specialties Teachers, Post-secondary | 1,720 | $97,300 |
Best Mississippi Schools for Education
- Mississippi State University
- University of Mississippi
- William Carey University
- University of Southern Mississippi
- Mississippi College
Top Health Professions Careers and Salaries
- Physician Assistants can perform many of the diagnostic and treatment functions of a medical doctor. In managed care settings, they can provide primary medical care and referrals to specialists.
- Registered Nurses are the primary source of patient care in hospitals, care facilities, and skilled nursing homes. They supervise the work of Nurse Assistants and Licensed Practical or Vocational Nurses.
- Respiratory Therapists provide therapy to patients with pulmonary damage from disease, occupations, or genetic conditions. They help restore lung and pulmonary capacity
- Emergency Medical Technicians (EMT) perform emergency medical care in emergency settings such as accidents and catastrophic events. They often work at the scene of an event along with police and firefighters. They assess patient conditions and provide immediate treatment, aid, and transport to medical facilities.
- Nurse Practitioner is an advanced practice registered nurse licensed in nursing and nursing specializations. Nurse practitioners can perform many of the roles of a Physician Assistant as well as nursing functions.
- Healthcare Administrator helps with strategic planning, preparing budgets, risk management, and marketing to keep the facilities operations running smoothly. There are many skills that are necessary to become a successful healthcare administrator.
- Healthcare Manager
| CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|---|
| Physician Assistant | 160 | $97,900 |
| Registered Nurse | 29,550 | $65,500 |
| Respiratory Therapist | 1,530 | $56,700 |
| Nurse Practitioner | 3,390 | $97,600 |
| Emergency Medical Technician | 2,320 | $40,600 |
Best Mississippi Schools for Health Professions
- Delta State University
- Mississippi State University
- University of Southern Mississippi
- Mississippi College
- Mississippi University for Women
Top Humanities Careers and Salaries
- Educational, Guidance, School, and Vocational Counselors provide expert counseling and guidance services to the groups within their responsibilities including students at all levels.
- Rehabilitation Counselors provide therapy and support for persons with physical, emotional, and psychological conditions. Some rehabilitation counselors specialize in personal effects of disabilities on employment and other life functions.
- Healthcare Social Workers work with communities and groups to promote health and prevention.
- Social Workers work in a wide variety of settings in government, private companies, and public interest organizations.
- Directors of Religious Activities and Education oversee programs for education, training, and public service. They combine skills and knowledge of organizational behavior with faith-based structures.
- Counselors help individuals overcome various challenges in life.
- Addiction Counselors help individuals overcome various drug and alcohol addictions in life.
- Mental Health Counselors help individuals overcome various drug and alcohol addictions in life.
- Psychologist
- School Counselor
| CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|---|
| Educational, Guidance, School, and Vocational Counselors | 1,960 | $52,100 |
| Rehabilitation Counselors | 460 | $45,700 |
| Healthcare Social Workers | 1,320 | $55,400 |
| Social Workers, All Other | 370 | $48,100 |
| Directors, Religious Activities and Education | 40 | $41,000 |
Best Mississippi Schools for Humanities
- Belhaven University
- Millsaps College
- Tougaloo College
- University of Mississippi
- Rust College
Top Natural Sciences Careers and Salaries
- Soil and Plant Scientists interpret soils and coil conditions as agricultural and other resources.
- Conservation Scientists study methods to sustain natural resources through reduction of waste and inefficiency.
- Foresters provide expertise to research, study, and manage forest resources.
- Physical Scientists research and study the chemical and energy properties of all types of matter.
| CAREER NAME | CURRENTLY EMPLOYED | ANNUAL SALARY |
|---|---|---|
| Soil and Plant Scientists | 70 | $58,700 |
| Conservation Scientists | 840 | $54,300 |
| Foresters | 9,510 | $52,200 |
| Physical Scientists, All Other | 310 | $81,200 |
Best Mississippi Schools for Natural Sciences
- Alcorn State University
- Mississippi University for Women
- Mississippi State University
- University of Mississippi
- University of Southern Mississippi
- Millsaps College
- Jackson State University
Additional Careers in Mississippi
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Database Administrator
- Computer Science Professional
- Criminal Justice Professional
- Information Technology Specialist
- Software Engineer
- Web Developer
Want to See All the Mississippi Occupational Wage Averages
The top occupations with the highest forecasted growth rate in Mississippi
| Occupation | Projected Growth | Average Wage | 2024 Jobs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Physical Therapist Assistant | 32.9% | $47,650 | 1,130 |
| Industrial Mechanic | 28.7% | $47,800 | 4,440 |
| Physical Therapist | 28.5% | $89,270 | 2,030 |
| Nurse Practitioner | 28.3% | $99,880 | 2,810 |
| Software Developer | 21.7% | $91,580 | 1,010 |
| Emergency Medical Tech | 18.8% | $35,330 | 2,470 |
| Preschool Teacher | 17.9% | $28,950 | 3,090 |
| Phlebotomist | 17.7% | $27,960 | 1,000 |
Top 15 Best Associate Degree Programs in Mississippi
See MethodologyGet Ranking Seal
1
Itawamba Community College
Score: 89.18
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,160
- Out-of-State: $5,360
- Net Price: $3,972
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 50%
- Total Enrollment: 4,599
- Undergrad Students: 4,599
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $26,300
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
2
Copiah-Lincoln Community College
Score: 83.66
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,600
- Out-of-State: $5,600
- Net Price: $4,879
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 69%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 2,801
- Undergrad Students: 2,801
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $24,700
- Student-to-faculty: 20:1
3
Southwest Mississippi Community College
Score: 83.22
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,600
- Out-of-State: $6,300
- Net Price: $4,253
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 71%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 1,807
- Undergrad Students: 1,807
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $25,100
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
4
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Score: 79.72
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,950
- Out-of-State: $7,250
- Net Price: $6,789
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 44%
- Total Enrollment: 7,845
- Undergrad Students: 7,845
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $25,800
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
5
East Mississippi Community College
Score: 78.81
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,740
- Out-of-State: $6,740
- Net Price: $5,277
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 54%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 3,324
- Undergrad Students: 3,324
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $25,100
- Student-to-faculty: 18:1
6
Northwest Mississippi Community College
Score: 78.59
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,460
- Out-of-State: $5,860
- Net Price: $7,573
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 38%
- Total Enrollment: 7,198
- Undergrad Students: 7,198
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $27,700
- Student-to-faculty: 21:1
7
Mississippi Delta Community College
Score: 78.47
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,380
- Out-of-State: $5,980
- Net Price: $2,136
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 57%
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Total Enrollment: 2,039
- Undergrad Students: 2,039
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $22,100
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
8
Pearl River Community College
Score: 78.14
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,500
- Out-of-State: $5,500
- Net Price: $5,462
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 63%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 5,462
- Undergrad Students: 5,462
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $25,700
- Student-to-faculty: 24:1
9
Hinds Community College
Score: 77
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,750
- Out-of-State: $6,800
- Net Price: $4,107
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 53%
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Total Enrollment: 9,407
- Undergrad Students: 9,407
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $23,600
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
10
Holmes Community College
Score: 76.96
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,510
- Out-of-State: $6,210
- Net Price: $7,280
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 44%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 4,948
- Undergrad Students: 4,948
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $25,400
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
11
Jones County Junior College
Score: 76.84
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,870
- Out-of-State: $5,870
- Net Price: $7,225
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 58%
- Graduation Rate: 43%
- Total Enrollment: 4,399
- Undergrad Students: 4,399
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $26,200
- Student-to-faculty: 25:1
12
East Central Community College
Score: 76.41
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,565
- Out-of-State: $5,665
- Net Price: $6,111
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 2,380
- Undergrad Students: 2,380
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $25,200
- Student-to-faculty: 17:1
13
Coahoma Community College
Score: 75.18
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,353
- Out-of-State: $3,353
- Net Price: $734
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 60%
- Graduation Rate: 33%
- Total Enrollment: 1,783
- Undergrad Students: 1,783
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $19,200
- Student-to-faculty: 19:1
14
Meridian Community College
Score: 73.03
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $3,811
- Out-of-State: $5,811
- Net Price: $6,884
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 61%
- Graduation Rate: 32%
- Total Enrollment: 2,621
- Undergrad Students: 2,621
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $23,800
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
15
Northeast Mississippi Community College
Score: 70.76
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $4,770
- Out-of-State: $8,050
- Net Price: $9,867
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 52%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 3,062
- Undergrad Students: 3,062
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $26,100
- Student-to-faculty: 22:1
Top 15 Best Bachelor's Programs in Mississippi
See MethodologyGet Ranking Seal
1
Mississippi State University
Score: 86.39
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,398
- Out-of-State: $25,444
- Net Price: $15,364
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 22,649
- Undergrad Students: 18,305
- Graduate Students: 4,344
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
2
University of Mississippi
Score: 85.58
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,220
- Out-of-State: $26,440
- Net Price: $14,289
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 22,300
- Undergrad Students: 17,302
- Graduate Students: 4,998
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
3
William Carey University
Score: 80.76
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,685
- Out-of-State: $14,685
- Net Price: $15,271
- Acceptance Rate: 54%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 42%
- Total Enrollment: 5,662
- Undergrad Students: 3,291
- Graduate Students: 2,371
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
4
Alcorn State University
Score: 80.73
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,549
- Out-of-State: $8,549
- Net Price: $14,864
- Acceptance Rate: 30%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 2,933
- Undergrad Students: 2,431
- Graduate Students: 502
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
5
Mississippi College
Score: 80.55
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $21,098
- Out-of-State: $21,098
- Net Price: $20,874
- Acceptance Rate: 40%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 3,946
- Undergrad Students: 2,396
- Graduate Students: 1,550
- Grads Salary: $64,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
6
Delta State University
Score: 77.85
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,605
- Out-of-State: $8,605
- Net Price: $14,138
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 2,556
- Undergrad Students: 1,889
- Graduate Students: 667
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
7
University of Southern Mississippi
Score: 76.43
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,450
- Out-of-State: $11,450
- Net Price: $14,427
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Total Enrollment: 13,526
- Undergrad Students: 10,258
- Graduate Students: 3,268
- Grads Salary: $64,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
8
Tougaloo College
Score: 75.69
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,861
- Out-of-State: $10,861
- Net Price: $13,718
- Acceptance Rate: 49%
- Retention Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 31%
- Total Enrollment: 677
- Undergrad Students: 657
- Graduate Students: 20
- Grads Salary: $64,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
9
Belhaven University
Score: 74.05
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $28,375
- Out-of-State: $28,375
- Net Price: $19,794
- Acceptance Rate: 43%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 3,627
- Undergrad Students: 1,501
- Graduate Students: 2,126
- Grads Salary: $62,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
10
Millsaps College
Score: 73.94
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $43,815
- Out-of-State: $43,815
- Net Price: $27,260
- Acceptance Rate: 68%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Total Enrollment: 661
- Undergrad Students: 627
- Graduate Students: 34
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
11
Mississippi University for Women
Score: 71.93
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,866
- Out-of-State: $7,866
- Net Price: $12,691
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- Total Enrollment: 2,339
- Undergrad Students: 2,080
- Graduate Students: 259
- Grads Salary: $61,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
12
Jackson State University
Score: 71.01
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,445
- Out-of-State: $9,445
- Net Price: $15,292
- Acceptance Rate: 89%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Total Enrollment: 6,906
- Undergrad Students: 4,927
- Graduate Students: 1,979
- Grads Salary: $64,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
13
Mississippi Valley State University
Score: 67.43
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,414
- Out-of-State: $7,414
- Net Price: $11,598
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 26%
- Total Enrollment: 1,879
- Undergrad Students: 1,654
- Graduate Students: 225
- Grads Salary: $57,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
14
Rust College
Score: 66.84
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,900
- Out-of-State: $9,900
- Net Price: $8,151
- Acceptance Rate: 79%
- Retention Rate: 66%
- Graduation Rate: 25%
- Total Enrollment: 755
- Undergrad Students: 755
- Graduate Students: N/A
- Grads Salary: $51,000
- Student-to-faculty: 8:1
15
Blue Mountain Christian University
Score: 59.04
- Undergraduate Tuition
- In-State: $19,280
- Out-of-State: $19,280
- Net Price: $15,305
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 922
- Undergrad Students: 892
- Graduate Students: 30
- Grads Salary: $43,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
Top 15 Best Master's Programs in Mississippi
See MethodologyGet Ranking Seal
1
Mississippi State University
Score: 88.6
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,398
- Out-of-State: $25,444
- Net Price: $15,364
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 63%
- Total Enrollment: 22,649
- Undergrad Students: 18,305
- Graduate Students: 4,344
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
2
University of Mississippi
Score: 87.98
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,072
- Out-of-State: $26,294
- Net Price: $14,289
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Retention Rate: 89%
- Graduation Rate: 68%
- Total Enrollment: 22,300
- Undergrad Students: 17,302
- Graduate Students: 4,998
- Grads Salary: $66,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
3
William Carey University
Score: 83.03
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,312
- Out-of-State: $12,312
- Net Price: $15,271
- Acceptance Rate: 54%
- Retention Rate: 79%
- Graduation Rate: 42%
- Total Enrollment: 5,662
- Undergrad Students: 3,291
- Graduate Students: 2,371
- Grads Salary: $71,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
4
Alcorn State University
Score: 83.03
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,174
- Out-of-State: $8,174
- Net Price: $14,864
- Acceptance Rate: 30%
- Retention Rate: 81%
- Graduation Rate: 47%
- Total Enrollment: 2,933
- Undergrad Students: 2,431
- Graduate Students: 502
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 16:1
5
Mississippi College
Score: 81.85
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,510
- Out-of-State: $12,510
- Net Price: $20,874
- Acceptance Rate: 40%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 62%
- Total Enrollment: 3,946
- Undergrad Students: 2,396
- Graduate Students: 1,550
- Grads Salary: $64,000
- Student-to-faculty: 13:1
6
Delta State University
Score: 80.35
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,435
- Out-of-State: $8,435
- Net Price: $14,138
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 64%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 2,556
- Undergrad Students: 1,889
- Graduate Students: 667
- Grads Salary: $69,000
- Student-to-faculty: 10:1
7
University of Southern Mississippi
Score: 78.82
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $9,340
- Out-of-State: $11,340
- Net Price: $14,427
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 70%
- Graduation Rate: 52%
- Total Enrollment: 13,526
- Undergrad Students: 10,258
- Graduate Students: 3,268
- Grads Salary: $64,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
8
Tougaloo College
Score: 78.28
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,134
- Out-of-State: $10,134
- Net Price: $13,718
- Acceptance Rate: 49%
- Retention Rate: 82%
- Graduation Rate: 31%
- Total Enrollment: 677
- Undergrad Students: 657
- Graduate Students: 20
- Grads Salary: $64,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
9
Belhaven University
Score: 75.59
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $10,710
- Out-of-State: $10,710
- Net Price: $19,794
- Acceptance Rate: 43%
- Retention Rate: 67%
- Graduation Rate: 46%
- Total Enrollment: 3,627
- Undergrad Students: 1,501
- Graduate Students: 2,126
- Grads Salary: $62,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
10
Mississippi University for Women
Score: 74.67
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $7,766
- Out-of-State: $7,766
- Net Price: $12,691
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Retention Rate: 73%
- Graduation Rate: 37%
- Total Enrollment: 2,339
- Undergrad Students: 2,080
- Graduate Students: 259
- Grads Salary: $61,000
- Student-to-faculty: 11:1
11
Millsaps College
Score: 74.19
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $23,568
- Out-of-State: $23,568
- Net Price: $27,260
- Acceptance Rate: 68%
- Retention Rate: 83%
- Graduation Rate: 57%
- Total Enrollment: 661
- Undergrad Students: 627
- Graduate Students: 34
- Grads Salary: $65,000
- Student-to-faculty: 9:1
12
Jackson State University
Score: 73.24
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,270
- Out-of-State: $8,270
- Net Price: $15,292
- Acceptance Rate: 89%
- Retention Rate: 77%
- Graduation Rate: 35%
- Total Enrollment: 6,906
- Undergrad Students: 4,927
- Graduate Students: 1,979
- Grads Salary: $64,000
- Student-to-faculty: 15:1
13
Mississippi Valley State University
Score: 70.35
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $8,046
- Out-of-State: $8,046
- Net Price: $11,598
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Retention Rate: 62%
- Graduation Rate: 26%
- Total Enrollment: 1,879
- Undergrad Students: 1,654
- Graduate Students: 225
- Grads Salary: $57,000
- Student-to-faculty: 12:1
14
Blue Mountain Christian University
Score: 61.29
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $12,386
- Out-of-State: $12,386
- Net Price: $15,305
- Acceptance Rate: 96%
- Retention Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 39%
- Total Enrollment: 922
- Undergrad Students: 892
- Graduate Students: 30
- Grads Salary: $43,000
- Student-to-faculty: 14:1
15
Strayer University-Mississippi
Score: 3.48
- Graduate Tuition
- In-State: $14,940
- Out-of-State: $14,940
- Net Price: N/A
- Acceptance Rate: 100%
- Retention Rate: 31%
- Graduation Rate: N/A
- Total Enrollment: 564
- Undergrad Students: 524
- Graduate Students: 40
- Grads Salary: N/A
- Student-to-faculty: 28:1
Cost of Mississippi College Education & Salaries
As with most states, Mississippi public colleges and universities charge lower rates for Mississippi residents than out-of-state students. Private schools tend to charge the same prices to all students. The policy of in-state tuition versus out-of-state fees is that state residents support the public university system with income taxes, property taxes, and sales taxes.
Students must qualify for aid through the FAFSA and attend accredited schools in Mississippi. In addition to grants and scholarships, students can qualify for work-study and loan forgiveness programs when studying certain high demand fields like nursing and teaching.
When considering the costs of education in Mississippi, students must be aware of extra costs, such as housing, food, books, and equipment. Many colleges and universities carefully advise that the costs of on-campus or off-campus living may involve some general costs. These estimates may range in the thousands of dollars. Students should examine advice on added costs. They typically reflect the student experience well and should be considered when arranging financial aid and student budgets.
Search Programs Offering Mississippi Majors
College Cost Analysis - Mississippi vs. National
Average Mississippi Tuition & Fees at 4 Year Public Schools
In-State Tuition - $8,340
National Average – $9,580
Out-of-State Tuition – $19,942
National Average – $27,437
Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid
Federal Aid is a vital source of funds in this era of rising education costs. Educational attainment is an investment in a brighter economic future, the costs of college are part of the investment made by students and their families. Federal grants do not require repayment and, along with state grants, are a preferred source of college funds. Student loans can fill the student’s needs but they require a plan for repayment. Mississippi ranks near the national average in dollars per recipient of federal aid. The state figure is slightly below the national median at $10,082.
| Financial Aid | Mississippi | Nationally |
|---|---|---|
| Received Federal Grants | 44% | 37.7% |
| Average $ per Recipient | $10,082 | $10,927 |
* Institutional aid represents grant and scholarship funds directly awarded by a post-secondary institution.
* Financial aid data represents 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only.
Best Scholarships for Mississippi
Mississippi has an extensive program to prepare students for college and to support them with grants and scholarships. The state has four programs that operate to reach nearly every student. Some are merit-based while all have needs as a basic criterion. Students must qualify for the state programs by succeeding in high school as students that can manage a core curriculum of math, science, reading, and language. They must complete the core coursework and obtain sufficient scores on the standardized tests to qualify for the grants and scholarships offered through by Mississippi.
The State of Mississippi is a source of grant and scholarship funds for students that reside in Mississippi and seek to attend a public or private college or university in the state. The colleges and universities each offer scholarships and many have needs-based selection criteria. Scholarships are important to students that cannot easily pay the costs of college education. Grants and scholarships do not add to the student’s educational debt.
GUM
Gear Up Mississippi
https://www.msfinancialaid.org/
Amount: $2,500
Deadline: March 31
Students that participate in the GEAR UP high school program (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) can qualify for the GEAR UP Scholarship. The application period is January 1 through March 31. The general qualifications are Mississippi residency with a custodial parent or guardian that is also a state resident. Applicants must have clear criminal records and participation in the GEAR UP in grades 9-12. Applicants must be Pell grant eligible and graduated from a GEAR UP high School.
MTAG
Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant
https://www.msfinancialaid.org/mtag/
Amount: $500-$1,000
Deadline: September 15
This state grant may be reduced by other financial aid received by the student. The first-year award is $500 and the second, third, and fourth year provide $1,000. The total eligibility is four years or eight semesters. The eligibility standards require Mississippi residence for one year prior to application, a 2.5 GPA or better, attendance or enrollment at an accredited and approved college or university. Students must qualify for less than the full Pell grant. Students must complete the online application for each academic and submit documentation to prove residency.
HELP
Higher Education Legislative Plan for Needy Students
https://www.msfinancialaid.org/help/
Amount: Tuition and Required fees at a Public Institution and equivalent for Private schools.
Deadline: March 31
Eligible applicants may be high school seniors or current college students. All applicants must be Mississippi residents for the year prior to the application. All applicants must be within one year of high school graduation. The award may be renewable for eight semesters or completion of a bachelor’s degree. New applicants must apply through the FAFSA.
MESG
Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant
https://www.msfinancialaid.org/mesg/
Amount: Up to $2,500
Deadline: September 15
Applicants must be legal residents of the State of Mississippi for one year prior to high school graduation. Applicants must have a high school cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.5. If home-schooled, then applicants must submit a signed transcript of 9th through 12th-grade equivalence.
Applicants must score a minimum of a 29 on the National ACT or 1350 on the SAT. They can also qualify by achieving National Merit or National Achievement Finalist or Semi-Finalist status and they must enroll full-time at an approved post-secondary institution in Mississippi in a program of study leading to their first bachelor’s degree.
Award winners must attend an approved post-secondary institution in Mississippi. They must enroll in a program of study leading to a first associate or bachelor’s degree. Applicants must be enrolled full-time and maintain full-time enrollment, with passing grades during each semester. Full-time enrollment is 15 hours per semester or nine hours per trimester. College level applicants must have a minimum 3.5 cumulative college GPA on at least 12 completed college hours, but no more than 18 completed college hours.
NISS
Nissan Scholarship
https://www.msfinancialaid.org/nissan/
Amount: Full tuition Fees and Books
Deadline: March 1
The awards can run four two or four years for an associate or bachelor’s degree. Applicants must complete the FAFSA, prove residency in Mississippi, and recipients must attend a two-year or four-year college. The program awards students that seek their first degree. Students must write an essay describing future intentions to use education to promote the automobile manufacturing industry in the state of Mississippi.
TMLEOFSP
The Mississippi Law Enforcement Officers and Fireman Scholarship Program
https://www.msfinancialaid.org/law/
Amount: Full tuition, housing, and required fees.
Deadline: September 15
The state of Mississippi will pay the full college costs of a dependent child or spouse of any state law enforcement officer killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. The student must maintain a 2.5 GPA during each term of enrollment. The recipient must enroll on a full-time basis at any public college or university in a two-year or four-year degree program. The program can also work for existing college students and first-year college students. The program will pay nearly all the tuition and expenses for up to eight semesters of attendance. The funding must end with eight semesters or the completion of a bachelor’s degree.
TMS
Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. Inc. Scholarship
https://www.ffa.org/participate/grants-and-scholarships/local-engagement-programs-scholarships/
Amount: $2,500 (10 Awards)
Deadline: February 6
The program supports students pursuing a four-year degree in agricultural engineering or agricultural science/technology. Residents of Mississippi are eligible and must provide proof of residence. The selection criteria emphasize activity in community and extracurricular activities. Students must complete the financial analysis. The program will favor those with the greatest financial need. The level of need can add selection weight If the major criteria between potential applicants are roughly equal.
