1. University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
Overview
The University of Mississippi, commonly known as Ole Miss, is a public research university located in Oxford, Mississippi. Established in 1848, it is the flagship university of the state and known for its vibrant campus life, strong academic programs, and deep-rooted traditions. Ole Miss offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees and is renowned for its programs in business, law, medicine, and engineering.
U.S. News Ranking
The University of Mississippi is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.
Number of Students
Ole Miss has a student population of approximately 22,000, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.
Degrees Offered
The university offers over 100 majors and degree programs across various disciplines including liberal arts, sciences, engineering, business, education, and more.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at Ole Miss is about 88%, making it relatively accessible while maintaining a selective admissions process.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for admitted students ranges from 1050 to 1250.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at Ole Miss include Greek life, student government, athletics, and various student-run organizations and clubs.
5 Famous Alumni
- William Faulkner – Nobel Prize-winning author.
- Archie Manning – Former NFL quarterback and father of Peyton and Eli Manning.
- Michael Oher – NFL player and subject of the movie “The Blind Side.”
- John Grisham – Best-selling author known for his legal thrillers.
- Eli Manning – Two-time Super Bowl-winning NFL quarterback.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- FedEx
- C Spire
- North Mississippi Health Services
- University of Mississippi Medical Center
- Entergy
2. Mississippi State University
Overview
Mississippi State University (MSU) is a public land-grant research university located in Starkville, Mississippi. Founded in 1878, MSU is known for its strong programs in agriculture, engineering, business, and veterinary medicine. The university places a significant emphasis on research and offers a supportive environment for innovation and academic excellence.
U.S. News Ranking
Mississippi State University is ranked among the top public universities in the U.S. and is noted for its research contributions.
Number of Students
MSU serves over 21,000 students, including undergraduate and graduate populations.
Degrees Offered
The university offers more than 175 degree programs across various fields including engineering, agriculture, business, arts, and sciences.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at MSU is around 73%, indicating a moderately selective admissions process.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming students is between 1080 and 1300.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
MSU students engage in a variety of extracurricular activities such as athletics, student government, research clubs, and cultural organizations.
5 Famous Alumni
- John Grisham – Renowned author known for his legal thrillers.
- Dak Prescott – NFL quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys.
- G.V. “Sonny” Montgomery – Former U.S. Congressman.
- Ralph E. Puckett Jr. – Medal of Honor recipient.
- Morgan Freeman – Academy Award-winning actor.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Nissan
- Ingalls Shipbuilding
- Sanderson Farms
- Mississippi State University Research and Technology Corporation
- Leidos
3. Jackson State University
Overview
Jackson State University (JSU) is a public historically black university (HBCU) located in Jackson, Mississippi. Established in 1877, JSU is a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and offers a rich history and strong emphasis on research, particularly in the fields of education, public health, and the sciences.
U.S. News Ranking
Jackson State University is ranked among the top HBCUs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Number of Students
JSU has a student body of approximately 7,000 students, with a mix of undergraduate and graduate students.
Degrees Offered
JSU offers a wide range of degrees including bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in fields such as education, business, engineering, and health sciences.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at JSU is around 68%, reflecting its commitment to providing educational opportunities to a diverse population.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming students ranges from 900 to 1100.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at JSU include marching band, Greek life, student government, and community service organizations.
5 Famous Alumni
- Walter Payton – Hall of Fame NFL running back.
- Rod Paige – Former U.S. Secretary of Education.
- Cassandra Wilson – Grammy Award-winning jazz musician.
- Robert Brazile – Hall of Fame NFL linebacker.
- Tonea Stewart – Actress known for her role in “In the Heat of the Night.”
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Jackson Public School District
- Mississippi Department of Health
- Nissan
- Entergy
- Baptist Health Systems
4. University of Southern Mississippi
Overview
The University of Southern Mississippi (USM), often referred to as Southern Miss, is a public research university located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Founded in 1910, USM is known for its strong programs in business, education, nursing, and the arts. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and research opportunities for its students.
U.S. News Ranking
The University of Southern Mississippi is consistently ranked among the top national universities by U.S. News & World Report.
Number of Students
USM has an enrollment of approximately 14,000 students, including undergraduate and graduate students.
Degrees Offered
The university offers a wide range of degree programs, including over 140 undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs across various disciplines.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at USM is around 96%, making it one of the more accessible universities in the state.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for admitted students is between 1020 and 1240.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Students at USM enjoy a variety of extracurricular activities including athletics, student government, music and performing arts groups, and volunteer organizations.
5 Famous Alumni
- Jimmy Buffett – Singer-songwriter.
- Brett Favre – Hall of Fame NFL quarterback.
- Ray Guy – Hall of Fame NFL punter.
- Clarence Weatherspoon – Former NBA player.
- Cat Cora – Celebrity chef and television personality.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Forrest General Hospital
- Hancock Whitney Bank
- Chevron
- NASA
- Northrop Grumman
5. Millsaps College
Overview
Millsaps College is a private liberal arts college located in Jackson, Mississippi. Established in 1890, Millsaps is affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is known for its rigorous academic programs, strong emphasis on the liberal arts, and close-knit campus community.
U.S. News Ranking
Millsaps College is ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the South by U.S. News & World Report.
Number of Students
Millsaps has a small student body of approximately 800 students, which allows for personalized attention and close interaction with faculty.
Degrees Offered
The college offers a variety of undergraduate degrees in the arts, sciences, business, and humanities, as well as several pre-professional programs.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at Millsaps is around 60%, reflecting its selective admissions process.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for admitted students ranges from 1150 to 1350.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at Millsaps include Greek life, academic clubs, service organizations, and intramural sports.
5 Famous Alumni
- Haley Barbour – Former Governor of Mississippi.
- Clarke Reed – Political activist and founder of the Mississippi Republican Party.
- Barry Hannah – Award-winning author.
- Robert C. Khayat – Former Chancellor of the University of Mississippi.
- Angela McGlowan – Political commentator and author.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Trustmark National Bank
- Regions Financial Corporation
- Baptist Health Systems
- Butler Snow LLP
- Ergon, Inc.
6. Mississippi College
Overview
Mississippi College (MC) is a private Christian university located in Clinton, Mississippi. Founded in 1826, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state and the second-oldest Baptist college in the nation. MC is known for its strong commitment to faith-based education and offers a supportive and academically challenging environment.
U.S. News Ranking
Mississippi College is ranked among the top regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report.
Number of Students
MC has an enrollment of approximately 5,000 students, including undergraduate, graduate, and law students.
Degrees Offered
The university offers a wide range of degree programs, including over 80 undergraduate and graduate programs, as well as a law school.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at MC is around 42%, reflecting its competitive admissions process.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for admitted students ranges from 1050 to 1260.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Students at MC engage in a variety of extracurricular activities including athletics, music and performing arts groups, religious organizations, and student government.
5 Famous Alumni
- Thad Cochran – Former U.S. Senator.
- David Meadows – Actor known for roles in film and television.
- Eddie Khayat – Former NFL player and coach.
- Rebecca Allen – Author and journalist.
- Lee Strobel – Author and Christian apologetic.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- St. Dominic Hospital
- Mississippi Department of Education
- University of Mississippi Medical Center
- Mississippi Baptist Health Systems
- Butler Snow LLP
7. Tougaloo College
Overview
Tougaloo College is a private, historically black liberal arts college located in Tougaloo, Mississippi. Founded in 1869, Tougaloo has a rich history of activism and academic excellence. The college is known for its strong emphasis on social justice, community engagement, and producing graduates who go on to become leaders in various fields.
U.S. News Ranking
Tougaloo College is ranked among the top HBCUs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Number of Students
Tougaloo has a small student population of approximately 900 students, allowing for a close-knit community and personalized education.
Degrees Offered
The college offers a range of undergraduate degree programs in the arts, sciences, and humanities.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at Tougaloo is around 73%, reflecting its commitment to providing educational opportunities to a diverse student body.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming students ranges from 900 to 1100.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at Tougaloo include student government, social justice organizations, Greek life, and cultural clubs.
5 Famous Alumni
- Bennie Thompson – U.S. Congressman.
- Anne Moody – Author and civil rights activist.
- Reena Evers-Everette – Civil rights activist and daughter of Medgar Evers.
- Jerry Young – President of the National Baptist Convention, USA, Inc.
- Doris Derby – Civil rights activist and artist.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Jackson Public School District
- Mississippi Department of Health
- Tougaloo College
- University of Mississippi Medical Center
- Entergy
8. Belhaven University
Overview
Belhaven University is a private Christian liberal arts university located in Jackson, Mississippi. Established in 1883, Belhaven is known for its commitment to integrating faith and learning, and it offers a supportive community for students to grow academically and spiritually.
U.S. News Ranking
Belhaven University is ranked among the top regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report.
Number of Students
Belhaven has an enrollment of approximately 4,000 students, including undergraduate and graduate students.
Degrees Offered
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as business, arts, education, and health sciences.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at Belhaven is around 49%, reflecting its moderately selective admissions process.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for admitted students ranges from 950 to 1150.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Students at Belhaven participate in a variety of extracurricular activities including athletics, music and performing arts, student government, and faith-based organizations.
5 Famous Alumni
- William Winter – Former Governor of Mississippi.
- Randy Hatchett – Theologian and author.
- Fred Luter – Pastor and former President of the Southern Baptist Convention.
- Craig Detweiler – Author and filmmaker.
- Linda Rebrovick – Business executive and entrepreneur.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- St. Dominic Hospital
- Mississippi Department of Education
- University of Mississippi Medical Center
- Baptist Health Systems
- Regions Financial Corporation
9. Alcorn State University
Overview
Alcorn State University is a public historically black university (HBCU) located in Lorman, Mississippi. Founded in 1871, it was the first black land grant college established in the United States. Alcorn is known for its strong programs in agriculture, nursing, education, and the sciences.
U.S. News Ranking
Alcorn State University is ranked among the top HBCUs in the nation by U.S. News & World Report.
Number of Students
Alcorn has an enrollment of approximately 3,500 students, with a mix of undergraduate and graduate students.
Degrees Offered
The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various disciplines, including agriculture, business, education, and nursing.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at Alcorn is around 58%, reflecting its selective admissions process.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for incoming students ranges from 910 to 1120.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Popular extracurricular activities at Alcorn include athletics, marching band, student government, and Greek life.
5 Famous Alumni
- Medgar Evers – Civil rights activist.
- Steve McNair – Former NFL quarterback.
- Michael Clarke Duncan – Academy Award-nominated actor.
- Myrlie Evers-Williams – Civil rights activist and journalist.
- Alexander O’Neal – R&B singer.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Mississippi Department of Health
- Natchez-Adams School District
- Entergy
- University of Mississippi Medical Center
- C Spire
10. Delta State University
Overview
Delta State University is a public university located in Cleveland, Mississippi. Established in 1924, Delta State is known for its strong programs in education, business, nursing, and the arts. The university places a significant emphasis on providing a supportive and engaging learning environment for its students.
U.S. News Ranking
Delta State University is ranked among the top regional universities in the South by U.S. News & World Report.
Number of Students
Delta State has an enrollment of approximately 3,800 students, including undergraduate and graduate students.
Degrees Offered
The university offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in fields such as education, business, nursing, and the arts.
Acceptance Rate
The acceptance rate at Delta State is around 86%, making it accessible to a broad range of students.
Average SAT Score
The average SAT score for admitted students ranges from 980 to 1180.
Most Popular Extracurricular Activities
Students at Delta State participate in a range of extracurricular activities including athletics, music and performing arts, student government, and academic clubs.
5 Famous Alumni
- Margaret Wade – Hall of Fame women’s basketball coach.
- Hugh Freeze – College football coach.
- Lusia Harris – Hall of Fame women’s basketball player.
- Tim Brando – Sports broadcaster.
- Charlie Conerly – Former NFL quarterback.
Top 5 Companies or Organizations that Hire the Most Graduates in Recent Years
- Delta Regional Medical Center
- Cleveland School District
- Baxter International Inc.
- Entergy
- C Spire