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NCAA Division I Colleges in Mississippi

6 schools in Mississippi. See our methodology.

The University of Mississippi stands out among the state's six Division I colleges with nearly open admission at 97.4% acceptance yet maintains the highest graduation rate at 68.5%. This pattern reflects Mississippi's approach to accessible higher education, where net prices range from $11,812 at Mississippi Valley State to $20,191 at Jackson State. The state's lowest-in-nation cost of living makes these investments particularly valuable for graduates entering fields supported by major employers like UMMC and Ingalls Shipbuilding. Mississippi State leads in post-graduation earnings at $51,513, while its 18,092 enrollment rivals Ole Miss's 18,995 students. Teacher preparation programs across these institutions address the state's documented educator shortage, with the Eminent Scholars Grant providing additional support for high achievers. Alcorn State presents a different model entirely, combining selective 29.9% admission with strong career outcomes that produce $36,421 median earnings for just 2,290 students.
6
Schools
$14,822
Avg. Net Price
$42,341
Avg. Earnings
47.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

NCAA Division I Colleges in Mississippi

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 18,092 $15,501 62.9% 75.2%
2 2,290 $14,040 46.2% 29.9%
3 18,995 $13,164 68.5% 97.4%
4 9,899 $14,224 50.6% 98.8%
5 4,769 $20,191 32.2% 88.6%
6 1,326 $11,812 22.1% 64.8%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Mississippi unique among state schools?

Ole Miss combines nearly universal acceptance at 97.4% with the state's best graduation rate of 68.5%. This unusual pairing suggests strong support systems help admitted students succeed. The school's $13,164 net price delivers $50,994 median earnings, second only to Mississippi State.

How selective is Alcorn State compared to other Mississippi colleges?

Alcorn State admits only 29.9% of applicants, making it by far the most selective among the state's six Division I schools. The next most selective, Mississippi Valley State, accepts 64.8%. This selectivity contributes to Alcorn's focused 2,290 enrollment.

Does Mississippi Valley State offer good value despite low graduation rates?

Mississippi Valley State charges the lowest net price at $11,812, though its 22.1% graduation rate is concerning. However, graduates who complete programs earn $31,919 annually. The 1,326 enrollment allows for smaller class sizes and individualized attention.

Where do Mississippi college graduates typically find employment?

Major state employers include University of Mississippi Medical Center and Ingalls Shipbuilding, which align with strong engineering and health programs across these schools. The state's teacher shortage also creates opportunities, supported by education programs at all six institutions.

How do graduation rates vary across Mississippi's Division I schools?

Graduation rates span dramatically from 22.1% at Mississippi Valley State to 68.5% at Ole Miss. Mississippi State achieves 62.9% while Southern Miss reaches 50.6%. These differences often reflect student preparation levels and institutional support resources.

Related

NCAA Division I Colleges Nationally All Colleges in Mississippi Cheapest Programs in Mississippi

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.