Best
Value Colleges in Mississippi in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Mississippi combines coursework in accounting, economics, marketing, management, finance, business law, and data analytics. Programs often include internships or projects with employers. Graduates may pursue roles such as management trainee, marketing coordinator, human-resources specialist, sales representative, financial analyst, or operations supervisor. Popular Mississippi options include the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, the University of Southern Mississippi, Jackson State University, and Mississippi College. Compare accreditation, concentrations, online availability, and career support.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Mississippi introduces students to human behavior, mental processes, and research methods. Typical courses include introductory psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, abnormal psychology, cognitive psychology, statistics, and research design. Popular options include the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Jackson State University. Graduates may pursue roles as case managers, human resources specialists, research assistants, or behavioral health technicians; becoming a licensed psychologist requires graduate education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Mississippi combines foundational theory with technology training. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, software engineering, and artificial intelligence. Students may build projects while developing problem-solving and teamwork skills. Popular in-state options include Mississippi State University, the University of Mississippi, Jackson State University, and the University of Southern Mississippi. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or network administrators across industries.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Mississippi prepares students for helping professions. Typical coursework includes counseling theories, human development, assessment, ethics, multicultural counseling, group counseling, and supervised clinical practice. Popular colleges include Mississippi State University, the University of Mississippi, the University of Southern Mississippi, Jackson State University, and William Carey University. Graduates may become school counselors, mental health counselors, career counselors, substance use counselors, or community program coordinators; many roles require graduate study and state licensure.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Mississippi can lead to associate, bachelor's, or graduate degrees, preparing students for patient care in diverse clinical settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, microbiology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, pediatrics, and community health. Graduates commonly become registered nurses; advanced study can lead to educator, care coordinator, or nurse practitioner roles. Popular schools include the University of Mississippi Medical Center, the University of Southern Mississippi, William Carey University, and Alcorn State University.

Best Colleges in Mississippi Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is $11,887, compared with $28,848 at schools in the top 10% of the ranking, making cost an important factor to compare.
• Financial aid is received by an average of 100% of students overall, versus 72.41% at top-10% schools. Students should compare both the cost of attendance and the availability of aid.
• The average acceptance rate is 72.41%. Schools receive an average of 6,064.65 applicants, while top-10% schools average 18,630.6 applicants. The median number of applicants is 829 men and 1,383 women.
• Average test scores are 1,076.82 on the SAT and 21.86 on the ACT. Compare these figures with your own scores when considering admissions.
• Schools average 5,446.94 enrolled students, including an average of 379 men and 549.62 women.
• The average graduation rate is 48.41%, compared with 69% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 44% for men and 59% for women, so students may wish to examine graduation outcomes alongside cost and aid.
• Among the institutions, 7 offer associate's degrees, 18 offer bachelor's degrees, 16 offer master's degrees, and 8 offer doctor's degrees. There are 17 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, weigh affordability and financial aid against admissions selectivity, test-score expectations, enrollment, degree offerings, and graduation rates. Consider which factors best match your academic goals and circumstances.

How much does studying at a college in Mississippi cost?

In Mississippi, the reported average total cost of studying is $15,962.78. That gives you a useful statewide benchmark when comparing options, though your actual degree costs depend on the college, program, housing, and enrollment choices.

• Average tuition and fees: $15,189.78.
• Average room and board cost: $10,385.06.
• Average books and supplies cost: $1,304.77.

At popular choices such as the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, Jackson State University, and the University of Southern Mississippi, compare each program's published charges and financial aid before deciding. These averages offer a starting point, not a promise of what you will pay: scholarships, grants, commuting from home, and campus housing can change your budget. Include course materials and living expenses as you plan for each semester. Ask financial aid offices about deadlines, renewal rules, and work-study availability. With a clear budget and a careful aid search, pursuing a Mississippi degree can feel more manageable and exciting, without letting costs catch you by surprise.

How long does it take to finish college in Mississippi?

In Mississippi, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, while an associate degree usually takes about two. Your timeline varies by major, course load, and changes in your own study plans. At the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, or Jackson State University, planning courses with an adviser early can help keep your graduation date on track.

You may finish sooner by bringing in AP or dual-enrollment credits, transferring eligible coursework, taking summer classes, or choosing an accelerated schedule. Ask colleges which credits count toward your degree before enrolling, so savings in time and tuition are realistic.

Graduation rates offer a useful reality check on completion: Mississippi's average graduation rate is 48.41%, compared with 69.0% among the top 10% of schools. The average is 45.0% for men and 49.88% for women. These rates show that completing a degree is not automatic; academic advising, manageable course loads, and support services can help make your path clearer and keep you encouraged.

Salary

After graduating from college in Mississippi, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $39,996. Graduates of top-10% schools have a median alumni salary of about $51,644, showing the potential for higher earnings after attending a particularly strong institution.

Mississippi students can explore colleges and universities such as the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, Jackson State University, and the University of Southern Mississippi. Your own earnings can vary based on your degree, career, experience, and location, but these figures offer a useful starting point as you plan for life after college.

People also ask

What college in Mississippi has the lowest tuition?

For a Mississippi resident comparing public four-year colleges, Mississippi Valley State University is often among the lowest-cost options for tuition and fees. Community colleges can cost less overall, and the lowest price depends on the academic year, residency, and fees. Check each school's current cost page and your financial-aid offer before deciding.

What are Tier 1 schools in Mississippi?

"Tier 1" is an informal term, often used to mean a university with Carnegie R1 research status. Under that definition, Mississippi State University and the University of Mississippi are established Mississippi examples. Classifications can change, so check the current Carnegie designation if research activity matters to your college choice.

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

Tougaloo College, a private historically Black liberal arts college near Jackson, enrolls 1,301 students and offers a close-knit setting for Mississippi learners. Its 60% acceptance rate may appeal to applicants seeking a less selective admissions process. The listed total study cost is $11,886, the lowest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $30,107. Its 33% graduation rate is worth weighing alongside affordability. Students can consider Jackson-area access and campus community when deciding whether Tougaloo fits their academic goals.

Mississippi State University, a public land-grant institution in Starkville, is the largest school in this group, with 23,563 enrolled students. Its 78% acceptance rate offers many applicants a possible route to admission, while the 67% graduation rate provides another outcome to compare. The listed total cost is $27,487, and median alumni salary is $44,961. For a Mississippi student, Starkville offers a college-town setting; compare program options and expenses against your budget before choosing this sizable university for your intended degree.

University of Mississippi, commonly called Ole Miss, is a public university based in Oxford and the second-largest school listed, with 26,917 students. Its 97% acceptance rate indicates broad access for applicants, and its 72% graduation rate is the highest among these five colleges. The listed total study cost is $28,440, while median alumni salary is $46,782, also the group's highest. Mississippi residents considering Ole Miss can weigh Oxford's campus environment, their program choice, and overall expenses when planning a degree.

University of Southern Mississippi, a public university with its main campus in Hattiesburg, enrolls 13,191 students. Its 99% acceptance rate is the highest in this group, though its 49% graduation rate is a useful consideration when comparing outcomes. The listed total cost is $11,888, second-lowest among these schools, and median alumni salary is $40,977. For students living in Mississippi, Hattiesburg provides an in-state option; review degree offerings and likely costs to see whether Southern Miss suits your plans and goals.

Alcorn State University, a public historically Black university in Lorman, is the smallest school listed, enrolling 2,900 students. Its 45% acceptance rate is the lowest of the five, so applicants should review admission requirements carefully. The listed total study cost, $8,105, is the lowest, while median alumni salary is $37,047. Its 57% graduation rate offers another point for comparison. Mississippi students may value Alcorn's smaller campus setting and should compare available programs, financial aid, and travel needs before enrolling there.