Best Value Biology Colleges in Mississippi

Mississippi State University biology graduates earn $30,119 annually, nearly double the $17,595 typical for Rust College alumni, highlighting the significant earnings gap across Mississippi's biology programs. With net costs ranging from $8,751 to $25,291, the state's 15 biology programs offer varying value propositions. Mississippi's healthcare sector, anchored by the University of Mississippi Medical Center and regional health systems like Baptist Health, creates steady demand for biology graduates entering pre-health tracks or research positions. Public universities dominate the affordable options, with Mississippi State charging just $9,815 for in-state students while delivering the highest graduate earnings in the state. The 62.9% graduation rate at Mississippi State also leads public institutions, making it a standout choice for students balancing cost concerns with career outcomes.

Programs

$8,751 – $25,291

Net Price Range

$23,581

Avg. Program Earnings

45.9%

Avg. Graduation Rate

15 Biology, General Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	Program Earnings	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Rust College Holly Springs, Mississippi	$8,751	$17,595	$13,840	27.0%	78.8%
2	Mississippi State University Mississippi State, Mississippi	$15,501	$30,119	$9,815	62.9%	75.2%
3	University of Southern Mississippi Hattiesburg, Mississippi	$14,224	$27,476	$9,618	50.6%	98.8%
4	University of Mississippi University, Mississippi	$13,164	$25,194	$9,412	68.5%	97.4%
5	William Carey University Hattiesburg, Mississippi	$17,052	$26,353	$14,685	40.8%	53.6%
6	Alcorn State University Alcorn State, Mississippi	$14,040	$20,140	$8,549	46.2%	29.9%
7	Jackson State University Jackson, Mississippi	$20,191	$21,632	$9,090	32.2%	88.6%
8	Mississippi College Clinton, Mississippi	$20,911	$20,140	$21,698	62.8%	40.0%
9	Belhaven University Jackson, Mississippi	$22,078		$29,195	51.1%	42.6%
10	Blue Mountain Christian University Blue Mountain, Mississippi	$18,062		$19,280	51.2%	95.7%
11	Delta State University Cleveland, Mississippi	$13,778		$8,605	46.9%	98.6%
12	Millsaps College Jackson, Mississippi	$25,291		$43,815	55.5%	67.8%
13	Mississippi University for Women Columbus, Mississippi	$13,198		$8,092	37.8%	99.1%
14	Mississippi Valley State University Itta Bena, Mississippi	$11,812		$7,912	22.1%	64.8%
15	Tougaloo College Tougaloo, Mississippi	$15,663		$11,398	32.3%	49.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Mississippi State University the top earner for biology graduates?

Mississippi State biology graduates earn $30,119 annually, the highest in the state, while maintaining a reasonable net cost of $15,501. The university's 62.9% graduation rate leads public institutions and reflects strong student support systems. Its research opportunities and connections to agricultural and medical industries in Mississippi contribute to better career placement for biology majors.

How do private college costs compare to earnings for biology students?

Private colleges like Millsaps charge $25,291 net cost but lack available earnings data, while Rust College offers the lowest net cost at $8,751 yet produces graduates earning just $17,595. William Carey University presents a middle ground at $17,052 net cost with graduates earning $26,353. The debt-to-earnings ratio varies significantly, making public options generally more favorable.

Is the University of Mississippi a good value despite high acceptance rates?

The University of Mississippi accepts 97.4% of applicants but maintains a strong 68.5% graduation rate, the highest among all programs listed. Biology graduates earn $25,194 annually with a net cost of just $13,164, creating solid return on investment. The high acceptance rate reflects the university's mission to serve Mississippi residents rather than academic weakness.

Where do the lowest-cost biology programs lead to career success?

Mississippi Valley State University offers the lowest in-state tuition at $7,912, but only graduates 22.1% of students. Delta State University provides better value with $8,605 tuition and a 46.9% graduation rate. Alcorn State University charges $8,549 in-state with graduates earning $20,140, offering the best balance of low cost and reasonable outcomes among the most affordable options.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.