Skip to main content

Rural Colleges in Mississippi

14 schools in Mississippi. See our methodology.

Coahoma Community College in Clarksdale stands out with a remarkable net price of just $560, making it the most affordable option among Mississippi's 14 rural colleges. This dramatic cost advantage reflects the state's position as having the lowest cost of living in the US, where community colleges serve as economic engines for small towns. Acceptance rates span from Alcorn State University's selective 29.9% to Blue Mountain Christian University's open-access 95.7%, while graduation rates range from Mississippi Valley State's 22.1% to Copiah-Lincoln Community College's 51.6%. These institutions directly support Mississippi's economy, training students for careers at major employers like UMMC and Ingalls Shipbuilding. The state's Eminent Scholars Grant program helps offset costs, particularly important given the teacher shortages affecting rural communities. Post-graduation earnings vary significantly, from $24,289 at Coahoma to $40,421 at Blue Mountain Christian, often reflecting regional job markets and program focus. Community colleges dominate this market, with 11 of the 14 schools offering two-year programs that provide direct pathways to Mississippi's workforce needs.
14
Schools
$6,382
Avg. Net Price
$32,484
Avg. Earnings
41.1%
Avg. Graduation Rate

Rural Colleges in Mississippi

College listings
# School Setting Enrollment Net Price Graduation Rate
1 Rural-Remote 2,290 $14,040 46.2%
2 Rural-Distant 1,948 $3,472 51.6%
3 Rural-Distant 6,231 $7,372 47.4%
4 Rural-Remote 3,847 $5,980 45.4%
5 Rural-Remote 4,018 $5,034 45.3%
6 Rural-Remote 2,914 $3,880 41.8%
7 Rural-Fringe 1,497 $3,057 40.2%
8 Rural-Distant 6,533 $3,158 42.1%
9 Rural-Remote 1,584 $5,770 39.3%
10 Rural-Remote 4,725 $4,881 35.3%
11 Rural-Fringe 1,314 $560 38.2%
12 Rural-Distant 1,490 $2,276 29.9%
13 Rural-Distant 536 $18,062 51.2%
14 Rural-Distant 1,326 $11,812 22.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Mississippi rural colleges so affordable compared to other states?

Net prices range from just $560 at Coahoma Community College to $18,062 at Blue Mountain Christian University. Mississippi's status as having the lowest cost of living in the US keeps operational costs down, allowing schools to pass savings to students through reduced tuition and fees.

How do graduation rates compare across Mississippi's rural institutions?

Graduation rates span from 22.1% at Mississippi Valley State University to 51.6% at Copiah-Lincoln Community College. Community colleges generally outperform four-year institutions in completion rates, with 8 of the top 10 graduation rates belonging to two-year schools serving rural communities.

Is admission competitive at rural Mississippi colleges?

Acceptance rates vary dramatically, from Alcorn State University's selective 29.9% to Blue Mountain Christian University's open 95.7%. Most community colleges maintain high acceptance rates above 80%, reflecting their mission to serve local students regardless of academic background.

What earning potential do graduates from these schools have?

Post-graduation earnings range from $24,289 at Coahoma Community College to $40,421 at Blue Mountain Christian University. Community college graduates typically earn $30,000-$34,000, positioning them well for Mississippi's job market where major employers include UMMC and Ingalls Shipbuilding.

Where do the largest rural colleges operate in Mississippi?

Hinds Community College in Raymond leads with 6,533 students, followed by Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College in Perkinston with 6,231 students. These larger institutions serve multiple rural counties, offering more program options while maintaining small-town accessibility and community connections.

Related

Rural Colleges Nationally All Colleges in Mississippi Cheapest Programs in Mississippi

See our methodology for details on rankings and data sources.