
118 College Drive, Hattiesburg, MS 39406-0001, USA


The University of Southern Mississippi is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award bachelor's, master's, educational specialist, and doctoral degrees. This regional accreditation is a widely recognized standard that ensures the institution meets rigorous criteria for academic quality and institutional effectiveness.
The university also holds program-specific accreditations for various fields, reflecting adherence to industry benchmarks and professional standards. Such accreditations can be crucial for students seeking employment or licensure in certain careers, as they demonstrate that the programs comply with specialized educational requirements.
For prospective students evaluating the credibility and transferability of their degrees, the accreditation status of the University of Southern Mississippi provides assurance that the institution maintains quality academic programs and supports continuous improvement processes.
Admission to University of Southern Mississippi requires applicants to have completed a secondary school program and achieved a satisfactory grade point average. While submission of high school rank is recommended, it is not mandatory. The university also requires applicants to present their admission test scores, including the ACT and TOEFL for international students. Although some recommendations and competency proofs are suggested, they are not compulsory for admission.
Applicants must hold a General Educational Development (GED) credential if they have not completed traditional high school studies. The institution mandates the presentation of a secondary school record along with college program requirements. Credit transfer from dual credit courses is not accepted, but Advanced Placement (AP) credits may be awarded to eligible students.
Regarding computer requirements, applicants are not obligated to own a computer; however, leasing options are available. The university does not operate an open admission policy, implying selective acceptance standards are in place.
The average ACT score for enrolled students is 23, placing them approximately in the 36th percentile nationally. Notably, 98.62% of enrolled students submitted ACT scores. The acceptance rate stands very high at 99%, indicating a strong likelihood of admission for qualified candidates.
The University of Southern Mississippi requires an application fee from prospective students as part of the admission process. This fee helps cover administrative costs related to processing applications.
Applicants who demonstrate financial need may be eligible for a waiver of the application fee. The university offers these waivers to ensure that cost does not become a barrier for qualified candidates seeking admission.
To obtain a fee waiver, students typically need to provide documentation verifying their financial situation or meet specific criteria set by the admissions office. It is advisable for applicants to consult the university's admissions website or contact the admissions office directly to learn about the exact procedures and eligibility requirements for fee waivers.
There are no ROTC branch units present on the campus of University of Southern Mississippi. Prospective students seeking Reserve Officers' Training Corps programs will need to consider other institutions or options outside of the university itself.
University of Southern Mississippi accepts transfer students for several terms throughout the year, including fall, spring, and summer. Prospective transfer students should note that the admissions process is moderately difficult, indicating a balanced level of selectivity.
The university does accept transfer credits, which allows students to continue their education without losing previously earned credits. However, specific policies regarding credit from CLEP exams or DANTES are not available, so students should verify credit transfer details through official channels.
University of Southern Mississippi offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' educational experiences by immersing them in international environments. The programs include faculty-led trips, exchange agreements with partner institutions around the world, and summer or semester-long sessions abroad. These diverse options allow students to select opportunities that align with their academic goals and personal interests while earning credit toward their degree.
The university emphasizes experiential learning through its travel courses, which are often centered around cultural immersion and discipline-specific topics. Such faculty-led initiatives typically last a few weeks and focus on direct engagement with local communities, arts, and history, providing a practical extension to classroom studies.
In addition, the University of Southern Mississippi maintains exchange partnerships that enable students to study at universities abroad for a semester or entire academic year. These exchange programs often include destinations in Europe, Asia, and Latin America, although specific locations may vary. Students participating in exchanges benefit from the flexibility of studying abroad while preserving access to academic advising and financial aid through their home institution.
Summer abroad programs also form an essential component of the offerings, accommodating students who prefer shorter-term international experiences. These programs combine coursework with cultural activities, allowing participants to explore new countries without interrupting their regular semester schedules.
Median composite ACT score
23Percent of students submitting ACT scores
98.62%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
RecommendedSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RecommendedFormal demonstration of competencies
RecommendedAdmission test scores
RequiredTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
RecommendedOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
Data not availableAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring, Summer