Best Online Colleges in Mississippi of 2024

Love the Magnolia State? We rank the top online colleges in Mississippi using factors like academic quality and affordability.
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Updated January 27, 2024

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Famous for soul food and blues music, Mississippi boasts a low cost of living and affordable tuition rates at its colleges and universities. The University of Mississippi and Mississippi State University rank among the best public colleges in the U.S. And the state's many smaller accredited colleges offer a variety of popular majors.

The best online colleges in Mississippi provide a high-quality education at an affordable price. If you're considering online schools in Mississippi, read on to explore the top-ranked colleges, high-paying career paths, and scholarship opportunities.

Reasons to Consider Online Schools in Mississippi

  • Online colleges in Mississippi prepare graduates for in-demand, high-paying careers in healthcare, business, and tech.
  • Distance learning makes it easier to attend a top Mississippi college without relocating or commuting.
  • Tuition rates for public and private colleges in Mississippi are below the national average.
  • Online programs use a flexible format to help working students earn a college degree.
  • Mississippi residents often qualify for tuition discounts when attending an in-state public college or university.

Did You Know...

Just 23% of adults in Mississippi have a college degree, according to the U.S. Census. Graduating from college can help you stand out in the Mississippi job market!

Online Colleges in Mississippi Rankings Summary

Jump to a school below using the links in the "School" column.

Rank School In-State Tuition Out-of-State Tuition Acceptance Rate
#1 Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MS
$9,110 $24,790 76%
#2 University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, MS
$9,094 $11,094 96%
#3 Jackson State University
Jackson, MS
$8,270 $8,270 62%
#4 Belhaven University
Jackson, MS
$27,450 $27,450 64%

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.

#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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,110
Out-of-state
$24,790
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,110
Out-of-state
$24,790
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
76%
Students Enrolled
23,086
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
43% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$9,094
Out-of-state
$11,094
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,094
Out-of-state
$11,094
Retention Rate
70%
Acceptance Rate
96%
Students Enrolled
14,146
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
68% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$8,270
Out-of-state
$8,270
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$8,270
Out-of-state
$8,270
Retention Rate
77%
Acceptance Rate
62%
Students Enrolled
7,080
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
90% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#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
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,450
Out-of-state
$27,450
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,530
Out-of-state
$10,530
Retention Rate
68%
Acceptance Rate
64%
Students Enrolled
4,278
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
69% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

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.


AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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Why Accreditation Matters for Mississippi Online Colleges

Accreditation recognizes colleges that meet high academic standards. And programmatic accreditation evaluates individual programs that prepare students for professional careers in fields like nursing and business.

Accreditation matters when choosing an online college. By attending an accredited online college, you can qualify for federal financial aid programs like the Pell Grant. Your credits are also more likely to transfer to other institutions.

Perhaps most importantly, employers will recognize the value of your degree.

In Mississippi, the best institutional accrediting agency to look for is the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). The Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) also accredits many online schools in Mississippi.

Before applying to any Mississippi online colleges, make sure to check for accreditation.

How Much Do Online Colleges in Mississippi Cost?

In 2020-2021, Mississippi public colleges charged in-state students an average of $8,642 and out-of-state students an average of $20,160 in tuition and fees, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES).

Private Mississippi universities charged an average of $19,222 in tuition and fees in 2020-2021.

Mississippi residents who attend a public online Mississippi college or university can expect to pay lower tuition rates. Some Mississippi schools may charge all online learners in-state tuition rates, regardless of where they live.

As an online learner, you may also qualify for in-state tuition rates through reciprocity agreements.

Mississippi, along with 14 other states, participates in the Academic Common Market from the Southern Regional Education Board. Through this program, students in select states can get in-state tuition at public Mississippi institutions.

You can also save money on your college education by submitting the FAFSA and applying for scholarships and grants.

Scholarships and Grants for Mississippi College Students

The state and federal government, as well as many independent organizations, offer scholarships and grants to qualifying college students. Unlike student loans, scholarships and grants do not need to be repaid.

Here are some financial aid opportunities you can apply for if you plan to attend a Mississippi college or university.

Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant

Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors and full-time college students attending an approved Mississippi college can apply for this grant. College students must have a minimum 3.5 GPA and have completed at least 12 credits.

Amount: $2,500

Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant

Eligibility: Low-income Mississippi-based students can apply for this grant. You must have a minimum 2.5 high school or college GPA and (for currently enrolled college students) at least 12 credits from a participating Mississippi college or university.

Amount: $500 or $1,000

Nissan Scholarship

Eligibility: Graduating Mississippi high school seniors with a minimum 2.5 GPA may apply for this scholarship. You must demonstrate leadership ability and financial need and plan to attend a public two- or four-year Mississippi college.

Amount: Full tuition, required fees, and a book allowance

Did You Know...

Over 75,000 students enrolled at Mississippi's 10 public universities in 2022, with the highest enrollment at the University of Mississippi and Mississippi State University.

City Spotlight: Online Colleges in Jackson, Mississippi

Home to the scenic Pearl River and historic sites from the civil rights movement, Jackson is the capital city of Mississippi, not to mention 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.

Popular Online Colleges in Jackson, MS
School Type Accreditation
Belhaven University Private 4-Year SACSCOC
Jackson State University Public 4-Year SACSCOC
University of Mississippi Medical Center Public 4-Year SACSCOC

Highest-Paying Jobs in Mississippi

With Mississippi's below-average cost of living, your paycheck can stretch far. Healthcare, management, and engineering careers pay some of the highest salaries in Mississippi. These fields also report strong projected job growth in the next decade, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

As the following table shows, many high-paying jobs require a graduate degree.

10 High-Paying Jobs in Mississippi
Job Median Annual Salary in MS (May 2021) Job Growth Rate in MS (2020-2030) Minimum Education Required
Nurse Anesthetists $171,400 14% Master's
Family Medicine Physicians $168,260 17% First-professional
Dentists, General $162,390 7% First-professional
Psychiatrists $134,370 13% First-professional
Physicians, All Other $128,910 10% First-professional
Health Specialties Professors $127,720 29% Doctorate
Pharmacists $127,050 6% First-professional
Architectural and Engineering Managers $126,290 4% Bachelor's
Optometrists $120,910 4% First-professional
Airline Pilots, Co-Pilots, and Flight Engineers $111,260 0% Bachelor's

Sources: BLS, Projections Central

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 universities, and links to resources for new and continuing students.

Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid


This government office assists Mississippi college students. Through this website, you can consult with counselors and administrators as you complete your Mississippi aid application.

Frequently Asked Questions About Online Colleges in Mississippi

Does Mississippi have online schools?

Yes, several Mississippi colleges and universities have online programs. Both Mississippi State University and the University of Mississippi offer online degrees. You can also attend community college online or earn an online degree from one of Mississippi's private colleges.

How many colleges and universities are in Mississippi?

Mississippi has 54 postsecondary institutions, including 20 two-year colleges and 19 four-year colleges, according to NCES data. There are 27 public colleges and universities in Mississippi and nine private nonprofit colleges.

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.

Nonresidents considering programs at Mississippi online colleges may qualify for an in-state tuition deduction depending on the school.

Who qualifies for free college in Mississippi?

Mississippi residents can cover the cost of college with a mix of 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?

The hardest college to get into in Mississippi is Rust College, according to NCES data. The private HBCU based in Holly Springs boasted a 38% acceptance rate in fall 2021 -- the lowest of any nonprofit four-year college or university in Mississippi.

Other competitive colleges in Mississippi include Alcorn State University (39% acceptance rate) and Mississippi College (49% acceptance rate).


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