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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!
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Top 20 Online Colleges in Mississippi
Read About Our Methodology Here
These rankings include
#1 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At Mississippi State University, online students can access programming of equivalent quality to in-person academic options. The school's 3,989 online enrollees can pursue 17 programs in a distance format. Busy learners who need flexible scheduling options can choose asynchronous online programs to complete coursework around other obligations.
Upon enrolling, online students connect with a supportive online learning community. Research projects present opportunities for learners to bolster their resume while contributing knowledge to their field. Enrollees also benefit from access to numerous institutional resources, receiving academic and career guidance throughout the duration of their studies. Career workshops provide opportunities for students to explore their job prospects before graduation.
For applicants who need help determining the best funding options for their situation, the financial aid office provides support and insights. Enrollees who demonstrate financial need can submit the FAFSA to apply for federal financial aid. According to the school, the number of degree-seekers receiving financial aid amounts to 95% of the student body.
#2 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
University of Mississippi
University, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Learners can access flexible online programs from University of Mississippi. Students can pursue online options or enroll in on-campus programs at the school's campus in University. The institution's enrollment includes 8,245 online degree-seekers, who take classes remotely.
Online students can work with peers on group projects. Virtual communication tools provide opportunities for participants to connect and network with peers and colleagues. In addition to coursework, students can pursue experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, to gain practical skills and bolster their resume. Online resources for distance learners include access to academic advisors who help with course selection. In preparation for their job search, enrollees can attend career workshops and job fairs.
By submitting the FAFSA, students can determine whether they qualify for federal funding. Learners can also apply for merit-based scholarships and fellowships from private organizations. To defray the cost of their education, 86% of enrollees receive financial aid of some type, according to the institution's statistics.
#3 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
University of Southern Mississippi
Hattiesburg, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Among University of Southern Mississippi's academic offerings are excellent online programs that allow students to earn their degree remotely. Along with in-person programs at the Hattiesburg campus, degree-seekers can pursue 60 online programs from the public school. With rigorous course requirements, the institution's online programs prepare its 9,842 distance learners for professional success.
Online enrollees can network with peers and receive assistance from instructors through the virtual classroom environment. While each program features unique requirements, learners across fields take general education and advanced classes. Academic advisors help students choose electives that align with their professional aspirations. To gain professional experience, enrollees can pursue internships with organizations in their field.
The financial aid office provides information about degree costs and funding options to help applicants create a budget. In addition to federal financial aid, students can apply to private scholarships.
#4 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Mississippi College
Clinton, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
For online students, Mississippi College delivers top-quality distance programs that meet the same educational standards as in-person programs. In addition to delivering programs on campus in Clinton, the school offers 40 online programs. Enrollees benefit from flexible scheduling options.
Like on-campus students, those pursuing a degree online receive opportunities to develop connections with classmates and instructors. Along with completing coursework, degree candidates can pursue experiential learning opportunities such as research projects and internships. Career counselors connect enrollees with resources such as job boards and resume assistance. Students nearing graduation can participate in opportunities such as career workshops to prepare to pursue their professional goals.
Financial aid counselors help applicants understand their funding options and more easily afford higher education. Enrollees often receive scholarships from third parties such as professional organizations and private donors. With 100% of the student body receiving financial aid, the school's programs can be very affordable.
#5 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
William Carey University
Hattiesburg, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
At William Carey University, online learners in many fields can access high-quality online programs. Delivering four online programs, the private institution enrolls 2,177 students through flexible distance learning options. Online learning eliminates the need to live near campus, allowing individuals to study from any location.
Online enrollees receive support and guidance from instructors. Hands-on experiences such as internships and research projects help participants gain practical skills. Degree-seekers can take advantage of institutional resources, such as career services, to prepare to secure professional roles in their field.
To pay for their education, enrollees can consider institutional aid and external funding, such as federal loans and private scholarship programs. Students can discuss their financial aid options with the institution's financial aid officers. Financial aid helps 99% of the school's learners cover their educational costs.
#6 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Mississippi University for Women
Columbus, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Mississippi University for Women offers top-ranked online degrees for learners seeking flexible study. Located in Columbus, the school's academic options include in-person programs and nine online programs. Of the institution's enrollees, 2,022 study in an online format.
Online students receive opportunities to collaborate with classmates. Participants can develop connections with classmates, which may lead to jobs after graduation. To contribute to the field and gain practical skills, learners can complete original research under faculty supervision. The institution provides virtual resources, such as academic advising, tutoring, and digital library materials. Enrollees can participate in mock interviews to prepare for the job application process.
To minimize debt, students can apply for financial aid. Learners can contact the financial aid office for details about available scholarships, grants, and fellowships. According to the institution's statistics, 97% of enrollees benefit from financial aid of some type.
#7 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Jackson State University
Jackson, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Remote enrollees benefit from a supportive online learning community. Participants can develop practical skills through experiential learning opportunities, such as research collaborations with peers. The institution's academic and career advisors help learners reach their academic and professional goals.
The school offers numerous internal and external funding opportunities to eligible applicants. Financial aid officers help students understand financial aid options, such as scholarships and fellowships. Of its enrollees, the school reports that 98% receive some type of financial aid.
#8 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Belhaven University
Jackson, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Many students choose Belhaven University because of its high-quality online programs. In addition to delivering on-campus programs from its campus in Jackson, the private school offers 36 online programs. The institution provides online resources, such as tutoring, for its 2,200 online students.
Distance learners can develop professional connections with classmates and professors using the virtual classroom environment. Although requirements vary by program, online learners complete general education coursework and advanced classes in their field. Academic advisors help students create and follow a plan to graduate on time. To contribute to their field and gain professional experience, enrollees can collaborate with faculty members on original research projects.
With overall costs varying by program, applicants should contact the financial aid office for details regarding the cost of earning a degree. Private scholarship and grant programs exist to support students with various backgrounds and interests.
#9 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Delta State University
Cleveland, MS - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Delta State University provides online learners with high-quality programs in various fields. A leader in distance learning, the public institution offers 17 online programs reaching 1,853 students across the globe. Online learning features flexible course formats, which often benefit working professionals who need to study according to their schedule.
The online learning format provides opportunities for enrollees to network with peers and receive individual guidance from instructors. Hands-on experiences such as internships and research projects help participants gain practical skills. Degree candidates can access institutional resources including academic advising and career services.
Many degree-seekers pursue external funding from sources such as nonprofits and professional associations. Financial aid officers provide information about options students can use to fund their education, such as scholarships and fellowships. At the school, 94% of enrollees fund their education using some form of financial aid.
#10 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College
Perkinston, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners with busy schedules can access flexible academic options through Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College's online programs. Based in Perkinston, the school offers 21 online programs. The institution enrolls 4,422 degree-seekers in its remote programs.
The school fosters a strong online learning community, featuring collaborative opportunities. Graduates may leverage connections gained during their studies to access career opportunities. Students can complete internships to gain professional experience, which may help them secure a job after graduation. When registering for classes, learners can consult academic advisors in their department. Networking opportunities and career services help enrollees prepare to succeed in the workforce.
To reduce the financial burden of higher education, eligible students can apply for financial aid. The school's financial aid office can help learners understand their funding options, including scholarships and student loans. The institution reports that 91% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.
#11 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Copiah-Lincoln Community College
Wesson, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Online learners can take advantage of Copiah-Lincoln Community College's premier educational offerings. In addition to on-campus offerings, the public institution delivers 28 online programs, through which it educates 1,877 distance learners. Online learning features flexible course formats, which often benefit working professionals who need to study according to their schedule.
Online enrollees often participate in class discussions through forums and chat. By conducting original research while earning their degree, participants can enhance their resume and abilities. Resources such as academic advising and career services prepare learners to succeed academically and professionally.
Degree-seekers can apply for institutional funding and external scholarships. Students can consult the institution's financial aid officers for details about funding options, which can reduce out-of-pocket expenses. To pay for their studies, 90% of enrollees use financial aid, according to the school.
#12 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Northwest Mississippi Community College
Senatobia, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students interested in attending online classes can research remote offerings from Northwest Mississippi Community College. Based in Senatobia, the public school delivers nine online programs. The institution enrolls 2,589 online learners, who complete rigorous coursework to earn their degree.
Online enrollees can develop professional connections with classmates and professors using the virtual classroom environment. After completing general education requirements, learners take advanced classes in their area of interest. Academic advisors assist students in selecting electives based on their individual goals and interests. To gain professional experience, enrollees can pursue internships with organizations in their field.
To reduce the financial burden of earning a degree, applicants should explore their funding options and contact the financial aid office. The college offers numerous internal and external funding opportunities to eligible students.
#13 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Hinds Community College
Raymond, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Hinds Community College, learners can choose flexible online programs to continue working while earning a degree. With a main campus in Raymond, the school's academic offerings include 25 online programs. The institution's student body includes 4,368 online enrollees.
Online students can work with peers on group projects. Participants learn alongside colleagues in a virtual classroom environment. Students can complete internships to gain professional experience, which may help them secure a job after graduation. To assist distance learners, the institution delivers resources including academic advising in a virtual format. During job fairs, enrollees can network with prospective employers and make professional connections.
Students can submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid. In addition to need-based funding, learners can apply for merit-based awards from the school and third-party organizations. The institution reports that 89% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.
#14 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Itawamba Community College
Fulton, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Students looking for a premier online education should consider Itawamba Community College. A leader in distance learning, the public school supports 66 remote programs from its main campus in Fulton. The institution enrolls 3,185 learners in its online programs and delivers virtual resources to foster their academic success.
Online enrollees communicate with peers and professors in a virtual classroom environment. Learners pursue rigorous coursework in general and advanced classes, preparing them well for the demands of their field. Academic advisors assist students in selecting electives based on their individual goals and interests. Options for gaining professional experience while enrolled include internships and research projects.
While program costs vary, applicants can contact the financial aid office for information about specific fees and expenses. In addition to federal financial aid, students can apply to private scholarships.
#15 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Pearl River Community College
Poplarville, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Learners who need scheduling flexibility can consider Pearl River Community College's online degrees. Along with four online programs, the school delivers in-person classes at its Poplarville campus. Of all enrollees, 2,433 benefit from distance learning opportunities.
Students benefit from a supportive online learning community. Participants can communicate with peers through chat and videoconferencing. Experiential learning opportunities, such as internships, help students develop their resume and gain practical experience. Distance learners can communicate with academic advisors to select classes aligning with their goals. To prepare to apply for jobs after graduation, enrollees can take advantage of mock interviews and resume help.
To minimize debt, degree candidates can apply for financial aid. Learners may qualify for many types of funding, including grants, scholarships, and fellowships. With many enrollees obtaining funding of some kind, the institution reports that 96% receive financial aid.
#16 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
East Mississippi Community College
Scooba, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
With exceptional flexibility for busy learners, East Mississippi Community College's online programs are ideal for working professionals. Students can pursue online options or enroll in on-campus programs at the school's campus in Scooba. The institution enrolls 2,046 degree-seekers in its remote online programs.
Online students can work with peers on group projects. With virtual communication tools, such as videoconferencing and chat, participants can develop their network and connect with classmates. Many employers prefer candidates with professional experience, which students can gain by completing internships and research projects. When registering for classes, learners can consult academic advisors in their department. In preparation for their job search, enrollees can attend career workshops and job fairs.
Students with demonstrable financial need can submit the FAFSA to receive funding from the federal government. To learn more about eligibility requirements for scholarships, fellowships, and other financial aid opportunities, interested applicants should speak with the financial aid office. The institution reports that 92% of all enrollees receive some form of aid.
#17 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Holmes Community College
Goodman, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
Online students can work with peers on group projects. Participants can communicate with peers through chat and videoconferencing. Many employers prefer candidates with professional experience, which students can gain by completing internships and research projects. Online learners also benefit from numerous institutional resources, providing support throughout the duration of their degree. Professional resources include mock interviews and resume assistance.
Federal financial aid programs can help students afford higher education. In addition to need-based funding, learners can apply for merit-based awards from the school and third-party organizations. According to the institution, 89% of enrollees use financial aid to fund their education.
#18 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Northeast Mississippi Community College
Booneville, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
With exceptional flexibility for busy learners, Northeast Mississippi Community College's online programs are ideal for working professionals. Along with 52 online programs, the school delivers in-person classes at its Booneville campus. Of the institution's enrollees, 2,092 attend classes online.
Students benefit from a supportive online learning community. Through online learning, participants can develop long-lasting connections with colleagues throughout the country. Students can collaborate with professors on original research projects and can pursue internships with local organizations. Academic advisors help online learners choose courses and stay on track for graduation. Enrollees gain professional and academic guidance through career workshops, mock interviews, and access to career services and academic advising.
To minimize debt, degree-seekers can apply for financial aid. Learners can also apply for merit-based scholarships and fellowships from private organizations. With many enrollees obtaining funding of some kind, the institution reports that 99% receive financial aid.
#19 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Southwest Mississippi Community College
Summit, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Southwest Mississippi Community College, online students can access programming of equivalent quality to in-person academic options. Along with educating enrollees at its Summit-based campus, the school offers nine distance programs for its 1,128 online enrollees. Busy learners who need flexible scheduling options can choose asynchronous online programs to complete coursework around other obligations.
Upon enrolling, online students connect with a supportive online learning community. Learners often complete internships in their field to prepare for job interviews and their career. Enrollees can use institutional resources, such as career guidance and resume assistance, to prepare to secure a position in their field. During career workshops, students can explore professional opportunities aligning with their academic background.
Applicants who need help understanding various funding options can receive help from the institution's dedicated financial aid counselors. In addition to institutional funding, enrollees can pursue private scholarships and fellowships to pay for school. The school indicates that 95% of students receive financial aid.
#20 20 Best Online Colleges in Mississippi
Meridian Community College
Meridian, MS - 2 years
- Online + Campus
At Meridian Community College, learners can choose flexible online programs to continue working while earning a degree. From its main campus in Meridian, the school delivers six online programs to students located throughout the country. Of the institution's enrollees, 970 attend classes online.
Online enrollees receive opportunities to collaborate with classmates. Through online learning, participants can develop long-lasting connections with colleagues throughout the country. Students can complete internships to gain professional experience, which may help them secure a job after graduation. The institution's virtual resources help online learners make the most of their program. Job fairs provide opportunities for enrollees to explore professional options and meet prospective employers.
Federal financial aid programs can help students afford higher education. Learners can also apply for merit-based scholarships and fellowships from private organizations. The institution's statistics indicate that 92% of enrollees receive financial aid.
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.
| 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.
| 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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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).