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Coahoma Community College stands out among Mississippi's 6 HBCUs with the nation's lowest net cost at just $560 annually, making higher education remarkably accessible in a state with America's most affordable cost of living. These institutions serve 10,808 students total, with graduation rates spanning from 22.1% at Mississippi Valley State to 46.2% at Alcorn State University. Jackson State University, the largest with 4,769 students, maintains broad accessibility through an 88.6% acceptance rate while preparing graduates for careers with the University of Mississippi Medical Center and Ingalls Shipbuilding, two of the state's major employers. Earnings potential ranges from $24,289 to $39,060 among recent graduates. The state's Eminent Scholars Grant program provides additional financial support, addressing both affordability concerns and Mississippi's documented teacher shortages through targeted educational pathways at these historically significant institutions.
6
Schools
$11,836
Avg. Net Price
$33,115
Avg. Earnings
33.0%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) in Mississippi

College listings
# School Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate Median Earnings
1 2,290 $14,040 46.2% $36,421
2 1,314 $560 38.2% $24,289
3 681 $15,663 32.3% $34,724
4 4,769 $20,191 32.2% $39,060
5 1,326 $11,812 22.1% $31,919
6 428 $8,751 27.0% $32,275

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Coahoma Community College uniquely affordable among Mississippi HBCUs?

Coahoma Community College offers the lowest net cost among all Mississippi HBCUs at just $560 annually. This strong affordability, combined with a 38.2% graduation rate, makes it an accessible entry point for higher education in Mississippi's low cost-of-living environment.

How do acceptance rates vary across Mississippi's HBCUs?

Acceptance rates range dramatically from Alcorn State's selective 29.9% to Jackson State's open-access 88.6%. Tougaloo College maintains moderate selectivity at 49.3%, while Mississippi Valley State and Rust College accept approximately two-thirds of applicants at 64.8% and 78.8% respectively.

Is Alcorn State University worth its higher cost compared to other Mississippi HBCUs?

Alcorn State commands the highest graduation rate at 46.2% despite a $14,040 net cost. Graduates earn $36,421 annually on average, and the university's selective 29.9% acceptance rate suggests strong academic standards that justify the investment for serious students.

Does Jackson State University provide good value despite being the most expensive?

Jackson State's $20,191 net cost is offset by the highest graduate earnings at $39,060 annually. With 4,769 students and broad 88.6% acceptance, it offers the largest alumni network and strongest earning potential among Mississippi's HBCUs.

Where do Mississippi HBCU graduates typically find employment opportunities?

Mississippi's major employers like the University of Mississippi Medical Center and Ingalls Shipbuilding actively recruit HBCU graduates. The state's teacher shortage creates additional opportunities, supported by programs like the Eminent Scholars Grant that encourage education careers.

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.