Whether you’re a recent high school graduate or an experienced professional, enrolling in an online college in Mississippi could be a great next step. Mississippi is home to a number of top colleges and universities that offer flexible online learning options at an affordable price. Yet choosing the right school and program can be a difficult task.
In addition to ranking the best online colleges in Mississippi, we spotlight the types of online programs you’ll encounter, your financial aid options, and the most in-demand careers in the state today. You’ll also find Mississippi-based resources that provide support as you choose and apply to a school, complete your degree, and begin your job search with confidence.
Learn more about the top online colleges in Mississippi, what they can offer, and which school is right for you.
Top-Rated Online Colleges in Mississippi for 2024
The best colleges put student needs first, with academic rigor, affordability, and support services at the top. They also prioritize financial aid, low student-teacher ratios, and career placement. To identify these schools in Mississippi, we’ve researched and analyzed every regionally accredited college and university in the state. See which colleges in Mississippi stand out for online learning in 2024.
- Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Assign Weightings
- Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
- For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
- Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
- Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
- Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
- Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
-
Mississippi State, MississippiPublic $$
Whether your dream is to earn a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree, Mississippi State University’s online program has options to suit your needs. At MSU, connection is a core value, and the faculty strives to ensure each student feels welcomed and receives the resources to support their success. Plus, as an online student, you’ll pay the same tuition as MSU’s in-state students, no matter where you’re based. This rate is considerably lower than out-of-state tuition and can add up to considerable savings. After graduation, Mississippi State graduates find themselves in high demand with employers, thanks to the school’s well-known reputation for outstanding leadership in teaching, research, and service.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Arts in Electrical Engineering
- Credits: 128
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $385.50/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Master of Science in Forestry
- Credits: 30
- Length: 1 year
- Cost: $514/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Doctor of Philosophy in Community College Leadership
- Credits: 61
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $514/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
University, MississippiPublic $$
The University of Mississippi online offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees to meet its students’ educational needs. Whether you earn a bachelor’s or a master’s degree at Ole Miss, you’ll open new doors to success and career advancement after graduation. As an online student, you’ll benefit from the best of the university’s degree programs coupled with exceptional value and flexibility. Online course offerings allow students to pursue studies on the schedule and location of their choosing, making it possible to earn a degree on their own terms. The university’s faculty are renowned for their credentials and reputation for providing quality education to all students.
Program Highlights:
Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $894.50/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: AACSB
Master of Science in Integrated Marketing Communication
- Credits: 36
- Length: 24 months
- Cost: $504-$1,460.90/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Doctor of Education
- Credits: 48
- Length: 3 years
- Cost: $504-$1,460.90/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Hattiesburg, MississippiPublic $$
At the University of Southern Mississippi, students can look forward to affordable tuition rates as they obtain a degree through online bachelor’s and master’s programs. If you started college but had to take a break, bachelor’s degree completion programs at USM can allow you to pick up your undergraduate degrees wherever you left off. If you’re ready to make the next move in your career, a graduate program can equip you with the professional tools necessary to accelerate your path forward. USM’s online programs are highly adaptable to the demands of life, career, and family obligations, opening up the possibility to earn a degree from any location. The University of Southern Mississippi also waives out-of-state tuition for any student enrolled in a fully online program, regardless of their location.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Applied Science in Cyber Security
- Credits: 120
- Length: 2-4 years
- Cost: $389.59/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Bachelor of Liberal Studies
- Credits: 120
- Length: 2-4 years
- Cost: $389.59/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Master of Science in Child and Family Services
- Credits: 37
- Length: 1-3 years
- Cost: $519.12/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Online Programs
48
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
18/1
-
Jackson, MississippiPublic $$
Whether you’re a traditional student who craves flexibility or a non-traditional student who can’t put life on pause to pursue a degree, Jackson State University has a program for you. The bachelor’s degree completion programs can help you earn the remaining credits for your undergraduate degree. If you’ve already completed your bachelor’s but have been thinking of pursuing an advanced degree, JSU’s master’s programs are ready to help you achieve your long-term career goals. Both undergraduate and graduate online programs at Jackson State provide students with a quality education in a robust virtual learning environment. Whatever course of study you choose, you’ll earn your degree on your own time, without the limitations on time and location that come with attending a traditional campus-based program.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor of Science in Professional Interdisciplinary Studies
- Credits: 124
- Length: 4 years
- Cost: $366/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Master of Science in Reading Education
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $462/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Master of Arts in History
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $462/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
-
Clinton, MississippiPrivate not-for-profit $$$$
For working professionals, people raising a family, or those who don’t live close to a college campus, it can be challenging to find the time to pursue a degree. That’s why Mississippi College’s online programs were designed with busy working adults in mind. These bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees are based entirely online, so students can reach their academic goals without giving up the things that are important to them. Students can learn from wherever it’s convenient for them while benefiting from MC’s low student-to-faculty ratios, Christian-based education model, and affordable tuition rates. If you need additional financial support to fund your education, a generous scholarship program is also available.
Program Highlights:
Bachelor’s in Homeland Security
- Credits: 36
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $9,828/semester
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Master of Science in Healthcare Communication
- Credits: 32
- Length: 2-3 years
- Cost: $800/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
Finance Master of Business Administration
- Credits: 30
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $800/credit
- Mode: Fully Online
- Accreditation: AACSB
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
15/1
-
Cleveland, MississippiPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
11/1
-
Alcorn State, MississippiPublic $$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
16/1
-
Hattiesburg, MississippiPrivate not-for-profit $$$
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
14/1
or
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
Affordability
Support Services
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
- Create List of Eligible Schools and Programs
- Institutional accreditation from an organization recognized by the U.S. Department of Education.
- At least one program in the subject area offered partially or fully online.
- Assign Weightings
- Number of online programs in subject area reported by school to the U.S. Department of Education. Because exact numbers change often and can be difficult to verify, we use a range-based scoring system: 0-5 online programs = 1 star; 6-10 = 2 stars; 11-15 = 3 stars; 16-20 = 4 stars; 21+ = 5 stars. In our design, laptop icons = stars.
- For degree-specific pages, ex: Psychology degrees, we list the current number of online programs available at that school for that degree type, as self-reported by the schools.
- Cost – Relative cost of attendance compared to peer schools on the list. Based on tuition and fees per academic year.
- Students w/ Institutional Aid – Percentage of students who receive financial aid from the school itself.
- Academic Counseling – Existence of this service on campus or online.
- Career Placement – Existence of this service on campus or online.
-
Goodman, MississippiPublic $
When you enroll in an online degree program at Holmes Community College, you’re able to maximize the convenience distance learning provides by choosing courses that are four- or eight-weeks long. You can access your coursework 24/7 through the school’s learning management system, Canvas, where you may download class material and interact with professors and other students. And when you’re burning the midnight oil and need help with the technology, there is technical support available by phone or online chat at any time day or night. The school offers a variety of fully online associate’s degree programs, so from healthcare to legal professions and everything in between, you get the opportunity to build the foundation for a long and successful career.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Applied Science Degree in Paralegal Legal Management Technology
- Credits: 62
- Length: 2 years
- Cost: $125/credit
- Mode: Fully or partially online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate of Applied Science in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 62
- Length: Two Years
- Cost: $125/credit
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate of Applied Science in Billing and Coding Technology
- Credits: 60
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $125/credit
- Mode: Completely online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
17/1
-
Fulton, MississippiPublic $
Itawamba Community College offers fully online associate’s degrees in areas like criminal justice, business and marketing management, early childhood education, and public health. Although you work on your classes at your convenience, the school still provides plenty of support to aid in your academic success. When you enroll in each online class, you’ll be required to participate in the eLearning Orientation designed to help you understand how online classes work, as well as the school’s policies and procedures for distance education. Then during the course of your studies, if you need technical help with the Canvas learning management system, which is where online classes are delivered, you have access to a network of people dedicated to helping solve technical problems. In addition, if you need academic assistance, you can get it from Itawamba Community College’s supplemental instruction and tutoring designed to help you gain a better understanding of course material.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Arts in Business and Marketing Management
- Credits: 61
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,450/year in state; $2,550/year out of state
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate of Applied Science in General Studies
- Credits: 62
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,450/year in state; $2,550/year out of state
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate of Applied Science in Early Childhood Education Technology
- Credits: 63
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,450/year in state; $2,550/year out of state
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
20/1
-
Booneville, MississippiPublic $
Northeast Mississippi Community College offers career and technical associate’s programs, such as degrees in accounting technology, nursing, and computer technology, which are conducted entirely online. However, the school does require students to complete their exams in a proctored environment, which can be an NEMCC proctoring location or an outside facility approved by the school. If you want to get a faster jumpstart to your career, you can choose to enroll in one of Northeast Mississippi Community College’s certificate programs, which take one year to complete instead of two. These programs include certificates in computer, administrative office, and business management technology. No matter what program you choose, however, you will leave with the skills and knowledge you need to land an entry-level job or move on to further your education.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Applied Science in Accounting Technology
- Credits: 60
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,825/year in state; $3,465/year out of state
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate of Applied Science in Business Management Technology
- Credits: 60
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,825/year in state; $3,465/year out of state
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate of Applied Science in Computer Technology
- Credits: 60
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,825/year in state; $3,465/year out of state
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
22/1
-
Raymond, MississippiPublic $
From business to health sciences to STEM to public and safety administration, Hinds Community College offers a number of degree programs to help you prepare for a broad range of careers. The school provides support every step of the way to help you get comfortable with a virtual learning environment, so when you first enroll in a program, you will participate in online orientation and advising sessions to learn more about distance education and get help enrolling in your first semester courses. After you begin taking classes in the Canvas learning management system, you can get the support you need to navigate the technology, as well as request additional advising if you want extra guidance on your coursework.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Applied Science in Marketing Management
- Credits: 62
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,750/year in state; $3,275/year out of state
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate of Applied Science in Health Information Technology
- Credits: 72
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,750/year in state; $3,275/year out of state
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 64
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,750/year in state; $3,275/year out of state
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
15/1
-
Wesson, MississippiPublic $
Copiah-Lincoln Community College offers 34 associate’s degree programs that are conducted entirely online in disciplines such as English, kinesiology, elementary education, paralegal studies, and international business. In order to be successful in an eLearning environment, the school suggests that students be proficient in computers so they can navigate the learning management system, disciplined enough to carve out adequate time to study and complete assignments and proctored examinations by the due dates, and motivated enough to address any problems as they arise. That is not to say that when you enroll in an online degree program at Copiah-Lincoln Community College that you won’t receive the same level of support that students on campus do. The school offers numerous resources for distance learners, such as library resources, technical support, and tutoring.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Arts in English
- Credits: 63
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,600/semester
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate of Arts in Accounting
- Credits: 63
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,600/semester
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Associate of Arts in Special Education
- Credits: 63
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,600/semester
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
20/1
-
Senatobia, MississippiPublic $
If you’re someone who wants to further their education, but your lifestyle makes coming to campus every day inconvenient, the distance programs at Northwest Mississippi Community College are a great choice. Whether you want to lay the groundwork for further education in disciplines like psychology, criminal justice, or accounting, or you want to earn a degree that will help you enter the workforce quickly in fields like paralegal or medical office technology, the school has associate’s degrees that will help you reach your goals. During their studies, students get access to a virtual classroom where they can keep abreast of course announcements, watch lectures, complete assignments, and communicate with professors and other students. Although you can conveniently do most of your work in the location of your choice, the school does require students to take between one and three proctored examinations for each class to ensure academic integrity.
Program Highlights:
Associate of Arts in Psychology
- Credits: 60
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,600/semester
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
Associate of Arts in Business Administration
- Credits: 60
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,600/semester
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
Associate of Arts in Criminal Justice
- Credits: 60
- Length: Two years
- Cost: $1,600/semester
- Mode: Fully online
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission
Online Programs
Academic Counseling
Yes
Career Placement
Yes
Student/Faculty Ratio
20/1
or
Base Methodology for OnlineColleges.me’s 2024 Online College Rankings
To be eligible for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria based on government data provided by The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).
After creating the list of eligible schools, OnlineColleges.me data scientists assigned weights and ranked schools based on a mix of affordability, support services, and online program availability metrics. Online program availability and overall affordability metrics received the heaviest weightings.
Online Program Availability
Affordability
Support Services
About Our Data
OnlineColleges.me’s rankings use the latest official data available from The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). Most recent data pull: January of 2024
Online College Learning Modes in Mississippi
To ensure that you find an online program that aligns with your academic goals and schedule, consider the types of online college programs available in Mississippi. In the following section, we spotlight the different online programs available to you in the state and provide examples of these programs in Mississippi. See how these online programs compare and which delivery is suitable for you.
Fully Online vs. Hybrid/Blended
When evaluating online colleges in Mississippi, it’s vital that you know the differences between online, hybrid, and blended options. Programs offered entirely online provide the flexibility ideal for busy working students, allowing you to access course content from any location with an internet connection.
While sometimes used interchangeably, there are some differences between hybrid and blended programs. Hybrid programs require a mix of both online and on-campus classes, while blended programs use an online component that compliments on-campus attendance. Hybrid programs are common for degrees with a technical component, offering an online delivery for theoretical classes while requiring in-person, hands-on learning opportunities. If a program requires some in-person attendance, you’ll want to consider schools within driving distance.
Keep reading as we showcase an example of both fully online and hybrid options available in Mississippi.
LPN-to-RN at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (Blended/Hybrid)
Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) is home to a hybrid LPN-to-RN program designed to expand the career opportunities for working healthcare professionals with LPN certification. Ideal for working professionals, this program offers the theoretical and hands-on training that’s required to earn RN licensure.
In this 66-credit program, students tackle essential topics such as mental and behavioral health, advanced concepts of nursing practice, and transition to professional nursing practice. In addition to virtual and in-person classes, nursing students complete more than 1,100 hours of supervised clinical experiences.
Prospective students can apply online and must have at least two years of professional experience before enrolling. Along with their online application, RN applicants must include two letters of recommendation, ACT scores, and official transcripts with a minimum 2.5 GPA.
BS in Construction Management at the University of Southern Mississippi (Fully Online)
Established in 1910, the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is a Hattiesburg-based public research institution. USM is home to a deep catalog of online options, including a bachelor’s in construction management. This 100% online program is accredited by the Accreditation for Construction Education organization and introduces students to the complex world of construction management.
Throughout this 120-credit online program, construction management students tack core classes such as the history of the built environment, structural design, building information modeling, and professional practice and construction law. Before graduation, online learners complete a senior capstone project and an internship at an approved site.
Interested students can apply online and must include academic transcripts, ACT scores, and all accompanying fees.
Asynchronous vs. Synchronous
Once you’ve weighed your options and decided that an online program is right for you, the next step is to consider which type of online program meets your unique needs. Still, just because programs are advertised as online doesn’t mean they’re all the same.
One of the main differentiating factors is whether a program is delivered asynchronously or synchronously. Asynchronous programs offer maximum flexibility, allowing online learners to complete coursework at their own pace with no scheduled virtual meetings. Asynchronous programs are ideal for working students juggling the responsibilities of school, work, and home.
Online programs with synchronous delivery may have a self-guided component, but you’ll need to attend live virtual classes. Designed to mimic the traditional in-person learning environment, synchronous programs are often ideal for students who need the flexibility of an online program but perform best in a more structured setting.
We’ve highlighted an example of asynchronous and synchronous programs in Mississippi below. Keep reading to see which online learning style is right for you.
Bachelor’s in Homeland Security at Mississippi (Asynchronous)
Mississippi College (MC) is a private Baptist institution that dates to 1826, making it one of the oldest schools in the state. Based in Clinton, Mississippi College serves over 6,000 students and offers various online programs, including a bachelor’s in homeland security. Whether preparing students for careers in law enforcement or emergency management, this program takes an interdisciplinary approach while covering essential topics in homeland security.
Ideal for working students, this asynchronous undergraduate program allows students to complete academic requirements online while juggling personal and professional responsibilities. In addition to general education requirements, online learners complete a 36-credit major curriculum, tackling core classes like introduction to criminal justice, introduction to homeland security, and grant writing for homeland security.
Applicants can apply online and must include official transcripts, standardized test scores, and any associated fees.
Bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering at Mississippi State University (Synchronous)
Mississippi State University’s Bagley College of Engineering is home to various online programs, including a bachelor’s in electrical engineering. In addition to some self-guided coursework, this undergraduate engineering degree uses synchronous classes that simulate an in-person experience. This flexible and affordable program introduces undergraduate learners to topics from digital devices to electromagnetic field theory.
As students traverse through this 128-credit online program, they tackle a mix of general education, major, and minor classes. Core engineering classes include introduction to computer programming, foundations in design, fundamentals of energy systems, and electromagnetics. Before graduation, students can complete an internship at an approved site.
Prospective students must hold a high school diploma or GED and can apply online. Applicants must submit official transcripts and can apply to enroll for fall, spring, and summer semesters.
Part-Time vs. Full-Time
If you plan to enroll in an online program but are concerned about how much time you can devote to academic requirements, a part-time program might be a solid choice. For undergraduate students, full-time students enroll in at least 12 credits per semester, while full-time grad students enroll in 9 credits.
The trade-off is that part-time students inevitably take more time to earn their degree than full-time degree seekers. In addition to full-time options, some programs offer accelerated programs ideal for ambitious students who want to graduate as quickly as possible.
Check out our examples of full-time and part-time online college programs in Mississippi and see which program is best for you.
Bachelor’s in Business Administration at Mississippi University for Women (Part-Time)
Established in 1884, the Mississippi University for Women (MUW) is a co-ed public institution home to various online undergraduate and graduate programs. Among these online options is a bachelor’s in business administration available to both part-time and full-time students.
Ideal for students transferring with extensive undergraduate experience, this online program allows up to 90 transferred credits. Throughout this 121-credit business program, students can specialize in areas including culinary arts, general business, healthcare management, and human resources management. Regardless of specialization, core classes include topics like business finance, strategic management, and the legal environment of business.
Application requirements can vary depending on academic experience, but freshman applicants must hold a high school diploma with a college-prep curriculum. Additionally, applicants must submit ACT scores and must have a minimum 3.2 GPA.
MS in Hospitality Management at the University of Mississippi (Full-Time)
The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) is the state’s flagship institution and offers an online master’s in hospitality management that students can complete in two years. This flexible online program leans on the expertise of experienced industry professionals and prepares graduates with the managerial and leadership skills needed for career advancement in the hospitality field.
This 30-credit program is a 100% online graduate program, online learners complete a mix of administration and hospitality management classes. Throughout this curriculum, students tackle essential courses such as advanced financial management in hospitality, organizational behavior in hospitality, and advanced hotel operations.
Prospective students can submit their application online and must include a statement of purpose, official transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. GRE scores are not required for this program.
Accreditation for Mississippi’s Online Colleges
Whether you decide to pursue an in-person or online program in Mississippi, you’ll want to seek out accredited schools. Institutional accreditation acts as a formal verification that ensures a college or university is worth considering. For schools in Mississippi, the best schools hold institutional accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC). In addition to ensuring quality academics, accredited schools offer federal financial aid opportunities and an extensive list of student services spanning from career placement to mental health counseling.
Alongside institutional accreditation is programmatic accreditation. Often acting as a stamp of approval for technical and professional programs, nursing, engineering, and journalism degrees hold accreditation from their respective professional organizations. Programmatic accreditation can also determine whether you can earn professional licensure or certification.
What Will Your Mississippi College Degree Cost?
Whether you attend a Mississippi college online or on-campus, earning a degree requires an investment of both time and money. Still, even in the face of this investment, you shouldn’t let sticker shock prevent you from enrolling. Mississippi students have access to numerous financial aid opportunities that can offset the financial burden often associated with completing a college degree. Scholarships, grants, work-study programs, and tuition reimbursement initiatives can all help students cut costs in a big way.
Mississippi-based students enrolling at a public institution typically pay the lowest tuition rates, while private institutions generally are associated with higher tuition. Still, online students often pay less tuition than their on-campus counterparts. Additionally, online learners usually save money in less obvious ways, including the gas it takes to drive to campus and avoiding various campus-based fees.
Check out the table below to review tuition rates for various colleges across Mississippi.
| School Name | On-Campus In-State | On-Campus Out-of-State | Online In-State | Online Out-of-State |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Mississippi | $9,072/year | $26,292/year | $9,072/year | $13,146/year |
| Mississippi College | $19,656/year | $19,656/year | $307/hour | $307/hour |
| Mississippi State University | $9,398/year | $25,444/year | $386/hour | $386/hour |
| University of Southern Mississippi | $9,230/year | $11,230/year | $9,340/year | $9,340/year |
| Mississippi University for Women | $7,766/year | $7,766/year | $7,866/year | $7,866/year |
* Costs include tuition and required fees of undergraduate programs.
Financial Aid for Mississippi College Students
In light of the tuition rates that come with an online degree, you’ll likely want to seek out ways to make your higher education experience cost less. In fact, 30% of undergraduates and 66% of graduate students use federal loans to help pay their tuition costs. As a result, reviewing federal programs for loans, grants, and work-study programs is a solid place to start when searching for financial aid options. To qualify for most financial aid programs, you’ll be required to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid to determine eligibility for various awards and financial need.
While federal financial aid is often your first consideration, the state of Mississippi is home to many resources that can help shoulder some of the financial burden of a college degree. The Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid is a vital resource for students seeking out scholarships, grants, and tuition reimbursement programs.
Fast-Growing Careers for Mississippi Graduates
If you decide to pursue an online degree, the next step is choosing the career you want to study for. Because choosing the right academic path is a big decision, it’s worth considering which professional fields in Mississippi are in the highest demand. In the table below, review the 10 fastest-growing careers in Mississippi and how much they pay.
| Career | Job Growth (2020-2030) | Annual Mean Wage (2021) |
|---|---|---|
| Counselors | 50% | $41,586 |
| Anthropology and Archeology Professors | 33% | $65,250 |
| Microbiologists | 33% | N/A |
| Physician Assistants | 31% | $74,570 |
| Petroleum Engineers | 29% | N/A |
| Nurse Practitioners | 29% | $111,750 |
| Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary | 29% | $163,160 |
| Speech Language Pathologists | 28% | $69,430 |
| Environmental Engineering Technicians | 27% | $43,520 |
| Operations Research Analysts | 27% | $77,240 |
Must-Have Resources for Online College Students in Mississippi
Mississippi Office of Student Financial Aid
Mississippi’s Office of Student Financial Aid is one of the first stops a Mississippi-based student should make, as it offers various financial resources for students in the state. In addition to state-based loans, students can apply for multiple scholarships, grants, and tuition reimbursement programs.
Mississippi Department of Health—Careers and Employment
Mississippi’s Department of Health offers a helpful page of various career and employment services. This page also links to various standardized test prep sites, college success resources, and financial aid and website pages.
Mississippi State University—Online Readiness Assessment
Online programs require a fair amount of self-discipline and time management. Mississippi State University offers a readiness assessment that helps prospective students gauge whether they’re ready for an online program.
University of Southern Mississippi—Resources for Online Learners
Just because you’re an online student doesn’t mean you won’t have access to student services. This page links to various online resources, including financial aid, a writing center, IT support, and mental health services.
Mississippi Prepaid Affordable College Tuition Plan (MPACT)
In response to rising tuition rates, Mississippi’s treasury department offers an initiative where individuals, families, and friends can lock in tuition costs and pay for school in advance. This initiative applies to public community colleges and four-year institutions in the state.
