Best
Private Colleges in Mississippi in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Mississippi provides grounding in management, accounting, marketing, finance, economics, and business communication. Programs may also cover business analytics, entrepreneurship, and organizational behavior. Students develop leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills through projects and internships. Popular options include the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Jackson State University. Graduates pursue roles as management trainees, marketing or sales coordinators, human resources specialists, business analysts, or operations supervisors.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Mississippi combines coursework in human behavior with research and community perspectives. Typical classes include introductory psychology, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, social psychology, statistics, and research methods. Popular options include the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Jackson State University. Graduates may pursue roles such as behavioral health technician, case manager, research assistant, human resources specialist, or mental health support worker; licensure usually requires graduate study.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Mississippi combines programming, mathematics, and hands-on problem-solving. Students typically take courses in algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, operating systems, and artificial intelligence. Popular options include Mississippi State University, the University of Mississippi, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Jackson State University. Graduates may pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, database administrators, web developers, or IT consultants, working in technology, government, healthcare, finance, and other sectors statewide.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Mississippi combines coursework in counseling theories, human development, ethics, assessment, multicultural practice, and group counseling, alongside supervised fieldwork. Graduates may pursue roles such as school counselor, mental health counselor, substance-use counselor, case manager, or college advisor, depending on degree level and licensure. Popular in-state options include the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Jackson State University, each offering relevant counseling or counselor-education pathways and programs.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Mississippi prepares students to provide safe patient care in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. Coursework commonly includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, maternal-child health, mental health, and clinical rotations. Depending on the degree, graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse educators, or care coordinators. Mississippi options include the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Mississippi State University, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Alcorn State University.

Best Colleges in Mississippi Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 13,987.5, compared with 30,995.0 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% substantially more expensive.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid across the schools, compared with 59.67% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 59.67%. Schools receive an average of 1,599.33 applicants, while top 10% schools average 2,871.0 applicants. The median number of applicants is 721.0 men and 1,283.0 women.
• The average SAT score is 1,111.0 and the average ACT score is 22.67.
• Schools average 1,795.8 enrolled students, including averages of 80.11 enrolled men and 113.38 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 45.0%, compared with 64.0% at top 10% schools. The median graduation rate is 45.5% for men and 64.0% for women.
• Five institutions offer associate's degrees, 10 offer bachelor's degrees, eight offer master's degrees, and three offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 10 coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total costs and financial aid alongside admissions selectivity, applicant volume, academic scores, enrollment, and graduation rates. Consider which degree level and school environment fit your goals, and weigh overall averages against the higher costs, applicant numbers, and graduation rates reported for top 10% schools.

How much does studying at a college in Mississippi cost?

The statewide estimate places the average total cost of studying in Mississippi at $17,840.10. Treat this as a typical study-cost benchmark, not a guaranteed price for an entire degree: the figures do not specify a program length, and your expenses depend on the college, degree, and living arrangements. Compare options at the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), Mississippi State University, Jackson State University, or the University of Southern Mississippi, and check each school's cost information.

Key averages to include in your budget are:

• Total cost of studying: $17,840.10.
• Tuition and fees: $19,809.40.
• Room and board: $9,719.
• Books and supplies: $1,088.33.

Because tuition and fees exceed the reported total-cost average, do not add these figures together; they may use different calculations. Check Mississippi residency rates, scholarships, and aid with each school. A financial-aid counselor can help you plan a budget and pursue an affordable degree.

How long does it take to finish college in Mississippi?

Most bachelor's degrees in Mississippi take about four years of full-time study at universities such as the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, Jackson State University, or the University of Southern Mississippi. An associate degree at a community college usually takes about two years. Part-time enrollment, changing majors, or needing prerequisite courses can extend these timelines, while careful planning can help you finish on schedule. Timelines vary by major and course availability.

Mississippi's average graduation rate is 45.0%, so fewer than half of students graduate on average. Among the top 10% of schools, average graduation is 64.0%. Rates average 44.75% for men and 43.78% for women. These figures show why checking each college's outcomes and support services matters, but they do not predict your individual result.

Ways to accelerate include:

• Apply accepted AP or dual-enrollment credits toward requirements.
• Take summer courses when available.
• Transfer credits with an adviser's guidance early.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Mississippi earn a median salary of about $40,515. For graduates of schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $47,915. These figures offer a useful benchmark as you compare programs and plan for life after graduation.

Whether you study at the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, Jackson State University, or the University of Southern Mississippi, your earnings can vary depending on your field, experience, and career path. Exploring programs that match your interests and local job opportunities can help you make the most of your degree and feel confident about what comes next.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Mississippi?

Beauty is subjective, but the University of Mississippi - often called Ole Miss - is a strong choice. Its Oxford campus is known for stately red-brick buildings, broad green spaces, and tree-lined paths, with the Lyceum as a memorable centerpiece. If you're nearby, visiting in person can help you decide whether its classic Southern-campus feel suits you.

What is the most selective college in Mississippi?

Millsaps College in Jackson is often among Mississippi's most selective colleges, based on its comparatively low acceptance rate. Admissions rates change from year to year, though, and selectivity is only one part of finding a good fit. Check the latest admissions profile and consider factors such as class size, academic programs, and financial aid.

What is the richest university in Mississippi?

If "richest" means the size of its endowment, Mississippi State University is often identified as the state's wealthiest university, with an endowment reported at more than $1 billion in recent years. Endowment totals fluctuate and can be reported differently across institutions, so compare the latest audited figures before treating the ranking as definitive.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Mississippi Ranking in 2026-2027

Tougaloo College offers a Mississippi-based option for students seeking a smaller college community, with 1,301 enrolled students. Its 60% acceptance rate may appeal to applicants looking for a moderately accessible admissions process, while the 33% graduation rate is worth weighing carefully. Total study costs are listed at $11,886, making it the second-lowest cost among these five schools. Median alumni salary is $30,107. For a prospective student, compare affordability with completion outcomes and likely career plans before deciding where to enroll.

Rust College is a small Mississippi college, enrolling 470 students, which may suit learners who prefer a compact campus community. Its 49% acceptance rate indicates a more selective admissions profile than some schools in this comparison. The listed total cost is $11,385, the lowest of the five, while its 12% graduation rate is the lowest as well. Median alumni salary is $31,782. Mississippi applicants should balance the cost against completion figures and investigate student support, transfer options, and financial aid.

Mississippi College has the largest enrollment in this group, with 3,842 students, and a 59% graduation rate. Its 29% acceptance rate is the lowest listed, so prospective students should plan carefully and review admission requirements. The total study cost is $21,000, higher than the three least expensive options but below Millsaps College. Median alumni salary is $44,233, second-highest in this comparison. For Mississippi residents, it offers an in-state college choice with outcomes and costs worth evaluating together for personal goals.

Millsaps College is a smaller Mississippi institution, with 587 enrolled students, offering a close-knit scale for learners considering college in-state. Its 57% graduation rate is among the stronger figures in this group, and its 43% acceptance rate suggests a selective admissions process. At $41,750, its total cost is the highest among the five colleges. Median alumni salary is $32,475. Students should consider whether the campus experience and academic fit justify the higher listed cost, and compare aid packages before enrolling.

William Carey University has 5,321 enrolled students, the second-largest student body in this five-college group, and a 60% graduation rate, the highest listed. Its 60% acceptance rate may make it an accessible option for applicants, though admission depends on individual qualifications. Total study costs are $14,250, lower than the costs at Mississippi College and Millsaps College. Median alumni salary is $44,069, close to the group's highest. For Mississippi students, it combines substantial enrollment with comparatively strong completion and salary figures.