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Mississippi, the Magnolia State, has an economy that grew nearly 16% from 2018 to 2023, according to IBISWorld. The state's largest sectors include healthcare, oil, and automobiles. Individuals interested in working or living in this state can benefit from pursuing a local degree. Mississippi students have the opportunity to network, learn the state culture, and find internships.
Prospective Mississippi college enrollees can use the following page to discover top schools, available scholarships, and popular in-state careers.
Popular Online Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
2024 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
The school descriptions below were drafted using natural language generation technology and have been edited for clarity and accuracy.
We use trusted sources like
Peterson's Data and
the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
#1 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi of 2024
Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in the city of Mississippi State, Mississippi State University offers 396 total programs. The institution's graduation rate is 60%, and its student-to-faculty ratio is 17-to-1, providing ample opportunities for individual attention. Additionally, 87 degree programs are available online, accounting for roughly 22% of all programs offered by the school.
When it comes to financial aid, 97% of students receive aid. At MSU, the average amount of aid awarded is $9,318. This lowers the average cost after aid to $16,175. In addition, 42% of students receive loans, with an average loan award amount of $6,813.
Key Points:
- Avg. Cost per Credit: Not Available
- Avg. Annual Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,318
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1
- Number of Programs Available Online: 87
#2 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi of 2024
University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The University of Southern Mississippi, based in Hattiesburg, offers an extensive selection of 174 programs. The student-to-faculty ratio is 16-to-1, ensuring you're not just another face in the crowd.
Financial aid is a vital part of the Southern Miss experience for many learners. The average amount of aid awarded is $9,210, with 93% of students receiving some form of aid. In terms of flexible studies, the university offers 36 online degree programs, allowing you to learn at your own pace.
Key Points:
- Avg. Cost per Credit: Not Available
- Avg. Annual Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,210
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1
- Number of Programs Available Online: 36
#3 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi of 2024
Jackson State University
Jackson, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Jackson State University, found in the city of Jackson, offers a total of 90 academic programs. The student-to-faculty ratio is a balanced 15-to-1, meaning you'll have easy access to your professors. What's more, 40% of the school's programs are offered online, making it a good choice if you prefer remote learning.
At JSU, 99% of students receive some form of financial aid, with the average amount awarded being $9,636. If you need to take out loans, the average amount in loans awarded is $8,551.
Key Points:
- Avg. Cost per Credit: Not Available
- Avg. Annual Amount of Aid Awarded: $9,636
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1
- Number of Programs Available Online: 36
#4 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi of 2024
Belhaven University
Jackson, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Belhaven University, based in Jackson, provides 85 programs for you to choose from. With an impressive student-to-faculty ratio of 10-to-1, you can expect personalized attention in your classes.
When it comes to financial support, Belhaven has a solid track record. All students receive some form of aid, lessening the burden of tuition. And if you're considering an online degree, Belhaven offers 28 degree programs online, accounting for about one-third of its programs.
Key Points:
- Avg. Cost per Credit: Not Available
- Avg. Annual Amount of Aid Awarded: Not Available
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10-to-1
- Number of Programs Available Online: 28
How We Rank Schools
Accredited Schools Online (ASO) uses a custom ranking system to evaluate schools on their quality, affordability, and reputation.
We rank schools using data like graduation rate, admission rate, tuition costs, financial aid awarded, and program offerings. And all our ranked schools hold institutional accreditation.
Our detailed methodology page can tell you more about how we create school rankings.
Did You Know...
- Just 23.9% of adults in Mississippi have a college degree, according to data from the 2020 U.S. Census. Graduating from college can help you stand out in the Mississippi job market!
- The number of postsecondary enrollees in Mississippi institutions more than doubled from 1970 to 2020, according to the National Center for Education Statistics.
- According to the Mississippi Department of Education, the number of high school graduates from the 2022-23 school year who enrolled in a postsecondary program was 60.5%.
Why Accreditation Matters for Mississippi Online Colleges
Accreditation verifies that schools meet standards of academic quality. Accreditation status matters when choosing an online college. By attending an accredited online college, you can qualify for federal student aid programs like the Pell Grant. Your credits are also more likely to transfer to other institutions.
In Mississippi, institutional accrediting agencies include the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). Some fields — like nursing, education, computer science, and business — also offer programmatic accreditation, which evaluates how well programs prepare students for jobs in the field.
Before applying to any Mississippi online colleges, make sure to check for accreditation.
How Much Do Online Colleges in Mississippi Cost?
For the 2021-22 school year, Mississippi public schools charged in-state students an average of $8,930 and out-of-state students an average of $20,848 in tuition and fees, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Private Mississippi institutions charged an average of $19,603 in tuition and fees in 2021-22.
Generally, Mississippi residents who attend public institutions pay lower tuition rates than students at private institutions. Some schools charge all online learners in-state tuition rates regardless of residency status.
As an online learner, you may also qualify for in-state tuition rates through reciprocity agreements. Mississippi and 14 other states participate in the Academic Common Market from the Southern Regional Education Board. Through this program, students from member states can get in-state tuition for select programs at public Mississippi institutions.
You can also reduce the cost of your college education by submitting the FAFSA and applying for scholarships and grants.
Scholarships and Grants for Mississippi College Students
The government and independent organizations offer scholarships and grants to qualifying college students. Unlike student loans, scholarships and grants do not require repayment. Financial aid opportunities for Mississippi college students include:
Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant
- Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors and full-time college students attending approved Mississippi institutions can apply for this grant. Applicants must be Mississippi residents. Current high school students need a minimum 3.5 GPA and a minimum 29 SAT or 1350 SAT score. College-enrolled applicants need a 3.5 GPA, 12-18 completed credits, and full-time enrollment status.
- Amount: Up to $2,500 per year
Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant
- Eligibility: Mississippi residents with financial need can apply for this grant. High school applicants must have a minimum 2.5 GPA, minimum 15 ACT score, and be eligible for less than the maximum Pell Grant. Current postsecondary attendees require a minimum 2.5 GPA with at least 12 completed credits. They must also enroll full time and be eligible for less than the maximum Pell Grant.
- Amount: $500-$1,000 per year
Nissan Scholarship
- Eligibility: Graduating Mississippi high school seniors with a minimum 20 ACT or 940 SAT score and a minimum 2.5 GPA can apply for this scholarship. Applicants must plan to attend a public two- or four-year institution in the state and demonstrate leadership ability and financial need. They submit a brief essay regarding their future plans and how their major can support the automotive industry.
- Amount: Full tuition, required fees, and a book allowance
Did You Know...
Mississippi provides $40 million annually in student aid. The state has three grant programs, which offers up to full tuition coverage.
City Spotlight: Jackson, Mississippi
Home to the scenic Pearl River and historic sites from the civil rights movement, Jackson is the capital of Mississippi and the largest city in the state. Its major industries include manufacturing, transportation, healthcare, and telecommunications.
Jackson is also home to several colleges offering online degrees and courses, including Jackson State, one of the largest public HBCUs in the United States.
| School | Type | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Jackson State University | Public 4-Year | SACSCOC |
| Belhaven University | Private 4-Year | SACSCOC |
| University of Mississippi Medical Center | Public 4-Year | SACSCOC |
Highest-Paying Jobs in Mississippi
Because Mississippi has a below-average cost of living, even lower salaries may have higher purchasing power than in other states. Healthcare, management, and engineering careers pay some of the highest average salaries in Mississippi, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). These fields also report strong projected job growth from 2020 to 2030, according to data from Projections Central.
As the following table shows, many high-paying jobs require a graduate degree.
| Job | Average Annual Wage in Mississippi (2022) | Job Growth Rate in Mississippi (2020-30) | Minimum Education Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family Medicine Physicians | $230,540 | 17% | Professional |
| Nurse Anesthetists | $184,390 | 13.8% | Master's |
| Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | $157,160 | 28.8% | Doctorate |
| Dentists, General | $157,110 | 7.2% | Professional |
| Architectural and Engineering Managers | $131,850 | 4.3% | Bachelor's |
| Optometrists | $125,210 | 10% | Doctorate |
| Pharmacists | $121,860 | 6.2% | Professional |
| Airline Pilots, Co-Pilots, and Flight Engineers | $115,380 | 0% | Bachelor's |
| Chemical Engineers | $111,840 | 4.5% | Bachelor's |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $111,160 | 9.6% | Bachelor's |
Resources for Online Mississippi College Students
Get2College
Part of the Woodward Hines Education Foundation, this organization offers free counseling for prospective Mississippi college students. Get help completing the FAFSA and attend virtual workshops and webinars.
Mississippi Department of Education
This government resource includes financial aid information, lists of Mississippi colleges and universities, and links to resources for new and continuing students.
Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid
This government office assists Mississippi college students. The site connects learners to counselors and administrators as they complete their Mississippi financial aid applications.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Mississippi
Does Mississippi have online schools?
Yes, several Mississippi colleges and universities have online programs. For example, Mississippi State University and the University of Mississippi offer online degrees. You can also attend community college online or earn a degree from one of Mississippi's private institutions.
How many colleges and universities are in Mississippi?
According to NCES data, Mississippi has 33 colleges and universities as of the 2021-22 school year. The state is home to 23 public institutions and nine private nonprofit schools. Many Mississippi colleges offer online classes, certificates, and degrees.
How long do you have to live in Mississippi to get in-state tuition?
College students must live in Mississippi for at least 12 months to qualify for in-state tuition, according to the University of Southern Mississippi. Other evidence of state residency includes filing Mississippi income tax returns and being registered to vote in the state. Some online programs at Mississippi schools offer in-state or reduced online-only tuition to all learners, regardless of state residency.
Who qualifies for free college in Mississippi?
Mississippi residents can cover the cost of college with a mix of federal grants, state grants, and scholarships. For example, the Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant covers $500-$1,000 per year for qualifying students. Mississippi residents can also use the federal Pell Grant and other federal aid to help cover costs.
What is the hardest college to get into in Mississippi?
According to NCES data, Alcorn State University, Belhaven University, and Mississippi College have the lowest acceptance rates in Mississippi, making them the most competitive for admission. Many schools require applicants to submit materials like transcripts, official test scores, personal essays, and letters of recommendation.