Most
Popular Colleges in Mississippi in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Mississippi combines coursework in accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, business law, and data analysis. Students often build communication, leadership, and decision-making skills through projects and internships. Popular options include the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, the University of Southern Mississippi, Jackson State University, and Mississippi College. Graduates commonly pursue roles as management trainees, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, financial analysts, sales representatives, or operations supervisors across industries throughout the state.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Mississippi combines classroom learning with research and practical experience. Courses commonly include psychology, developmental psychology, cognitive psychology, abnormal 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 work as behavioral health technicians, case managers, research assistants, human resources specialists, or community outreach workers. Clinical psychologist and counseling careers typically require graduate education.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Mississippi offers a rich mix of theory and hands-on learning. Students typically study programming, algorithms, data structures, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Projects may build practical coding and teamwork skills. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or IT support professionals. Popular in-state options include Mississippi State University, the University of Mississippi, Jackson State University, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Mississippi College.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Mississippi typically combines psychology foundations with training in assessment, ethics, human development, group counseling, multicultural practice, and diagnosis. Programs may include supervised internships to build clinical skills. Graduates pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, mental health therapists, or addiction counselors, depending on degree and licensure. Mississippi options include counseling programs at the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, the University of Southern Mississippi, Jackson State University, and Mississippi College.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Mississippi combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, medical-surgical nursing, pediatrics, mental health, and maternal-newborn care. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse educators, or public health nurses, depending on their degree and licensure. Mississippi colleges offering nursing programs include the University of Mississippi, Alcorn State University, University of Southern Mississippi, William Carey University, and Delta State University.

Best Colleges in Mississippi Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median cost of studying across the ranked colleges is 11,886.0, compared with 28,984.0 among schools in the top 10% - a substantially higher median for that group.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students overall, versus 72.41% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 72.41%. Colleges receive an average of 6,064.65 applicants, while top-10% schools average 18,630.6 applicants.
• The median number of male applicants is 829.0, compared with 1,383.0 female applicants.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,076.82 and 21.86, respectively.
• Colleges average 5,709.53 enrolled students. Average enrollment is 379.0 men and 549.62 women.
• The average graduation rate is 51.44%, compared with 69.5% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 44.0% for men and 61.0% for women.
• Six institutions offer associate's degrees, 17 offer bachelor's degrees, 15 offer master's degrees, and 8 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 16 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare costs with financial-aid availability, and consider acceptance rates and applicant numbers alongside your academic profile. Also weigh graduation-rate differences, degree offerings, enrollment figures, and the type of campus environment that fits your needs.

How much does studying at a college in Mississippi cost?

The average total cost of studying for a degree in Mississippi is $16,094.41, according to the statewide figure. Consider it a starting point, not a guaranteed bill: expenses depend on your college, program, housing, and financial aid. Reported averages include for budgeting:

• Tuition and fees: $15,264.47.
• Room and board: $10,444.25.
• Books and supplies: $1,286.

These expense categories exceed the stated total, so they may use different calculations; don't combine them as an itemized budget. Check your chosen school's current cost of attendance, and ask its financial aid office about grants, scholarships, and payment options. Mississippi students can compare the University of Mississippi in Oxford, Mississippi State University in Starkville, Jackson State University in Jackson, and the University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg. Costs vary by campus, program, and housing. Planning early can make expenses feel more manageable and help you find a school and degree program that fit your goals.

How long does it take to finish college in Mississippi?

Most bachelor's degrees in Mississippi take about four years of full-time study; associate degrees typically take two. At the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), Mississippi State University, or Jackson State University, your timeline depends on your program, course availability, and whether you study full- or part-time. Transfer credits and summer classes may help you finish sooner.

Mississippi's average graduation rate is 51.44%, indicating that about half of students in the measured groups complete within the reporting period; the top 10% of schools average 69.5%. Rates are 45.0% for men and 53.0% for women. These figures show completion is achievable, while planning and support can make a difference.

• Ask whether prior coursework or exams can earn credit, and map required classes with an advisor early.
• Consider summer or online courses to keep momentum if your schedule and budget allow.
• Some programs offer accelerated terms; confirm prerequisites and workload before enrolling.

Salary

College graduates in Mississippi earn a median alumni salary of $39,014. At schools in the top 10% for alumni salaries, the median is about $46,054 - a difference of roughly $7,040. Your own earnings can vary depending on your degree, career, and experience, but these figures offer a useful starting point as you plan for life after college.

Mississippi students can explore universities such as the University of Mississippi, Mississippi State University, Jackson State University, and the University of Southern Mississippi. When comparing programs, consider how each school's majors and career support fit your goals; choosing a path that matches your strengths can make the transition from campus to career feel more promising.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Mississippi?

The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) appears to be the largest by total enrollment. It reported more than 28,000 students in fall 2024, making it a lively, large-campus option for students who want a wide range of classmates, activities, and academic programs. Enrollment changes each year, so check the latest university figures when comparing schools.

What is the most popular school in Mississippi?

There is no official measure of "most popular," but Ole Miss is a strong answer if you mean broad name recognition and student appeal. Its Oxford campus, active student life, and well-known athletics draw attention across the state. Popularity is personal, though: visiting campuses can help you find the school that feels right for you.

What is the most famous university in Mississippi?

Ole Miss is arguably Mississippi's best-known university nationally. Its Oxford setting, prominent athletic programs, and important place in the history of school desegregation have kept it in the public eye. For a prospective student, that visibility can mean a strong sense of tradition and school spirit - while the campus community still offers room to make your own experience.

What is the hardest university to get into in Mississippi?

Mississippi College is a reasonable answer when comparing general undergraduate admissions selectivity: published acceptance-rate figures have typically placed it among Mississippi's more selective institutions. Rates vary by year and source, and they are only one measure of difficulty. Strong grades, thoughtful essays, and careful preparation can help you present your best application.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Popular Colleges Ranking in Mississippi Ranking in 2026-2027

Mississippi College, in Clinton, is a private Christian university offering a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs. For a student choosing to study in Mississippi, its reported enrollment of 3,842 suggests a substantial campus community while remaining smaller than a large public university. The school reports a 59% graduation rate and a 29% acceptance rate. Its total study cost is $21,000, and median alumni salary is $44,233, figures worth weighing alongside academic interests, financial aid, and career plans locally.

Alcorn State University, in Lorman, is a public historically Black land-grant institution with a distinctive Mississippi heritage. Its enrollment of 2,900 offers students a more compact campus setting. The reported graduation rate is 57%, and 45% of applicants are accepted. At $8,105, its listed total study cost is the lowest among these five colleges, while median alumni salary is $37,047. Mississippi students comparing affordability should also review individual aid packages, program offerings, and likely living expenses before deciding where applicable.

Belhaven University, based in Jackson, is a private Christian university known for its emphasis on the arts and a range of disciplines. Its 4,213 enrolled students make it the largest of these five institutions by enrollment. The school reports a 49% graduation rate and a 50% acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $29,800, the highest listed here, and median alumni salary is $43,005. Students in Mississippi can compare its urban setting, programs, and financial aid with personal goals.

Tougaloo College, near Jackson, is a private historically Black liberal arts college with a role in Mississippi education and civic life. Its enrollment of 1,301 is the smallest among the five schools described, potentially offering a close-knit campus experience. Tougaloo reports a 33% graduation rate and a 60% acceptance rate. The total study cost is $11,886, and median alumni salary is $30,107. Prospective students can explore its liberal arts programs and consider how campus size and costs fit their plans.

William Carey University, located in Hattiesburg, is a private Christian university offering undergraduate and graduate study in a range of fields. It has the largest reported enrollment here, with 5,321 students. Its 60% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools, and its acceptance rate is also 60%. Total study cost is $14,250, while median alumni salary is $44,069. For Mississippi students, its south-central location and reported outcomes provide useful points for comparing programs, affordability, and campus life locally.