University of Southern Mississippi Overview

University of Southern Mississippi is a four-year, full-time, inclusive, higher transfer-in, higher education institution located in Hattiesburg, MS. It has an enrollment of 10,597 undergraduate students. The admissions acceptance rate is 95.79%.

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $13,863. Tuition is $9,204.00 without financial aid.

University of Southern Mississippi is a predominantly bachelor’s-degree granting school.

At University of Southern Mississippi, 69.96% of students return after freshman year (national average: 68%).

University of Southern Mississippi has a student-to-faculty ratio of 16 to 1.

University of Southern Mississippi Website

University of Southern Mississippi Admissions

For the incoming class in 2023, the acceptance rate was 95.79%.

SAT or ACT scores are required

• The average SAT score was 1135.0 for the incoming class of 2023.
• The median ACT score was 23.0 for the incoming class to 2023.

University of Southern Mississippi Cost

The average annual cost of attendance after financial aid is $13,863. The in-state tuition is $9,204.00. Out-of-state tuition is $11,204.00

The average tuition is:

• $12,569, when family income is less than $30,000

• $11,995, when family income is between $30,001 and $48,000 

• $15,230, when family income is between $48,001 and $75,000

• $17,247, when family income is between $75,001 and $110,000

• $18,293, when family income is more than $110,000 

The average tuition shown here is based on the NET costs to students who receive financial aid. For the incoming class of 2023, 54.28% of students received a federal student loan and 45.73% of students received a Pell Grant.

Tuition is $11,204.00 without financial aid, or the in-state tuition discount.

University of Southern Mississippi Net Price Calculator

University of Southern Mississippi Majors/Salaries

University of Southern Mississippi has academic offerings within the core majors listed below.  

Please note that different schools classify majors differently, so it is best to view the school’s website to see the various programs it offers. See detailed information about the individual majors at University of Southern Mississippi here.

Recent Graduate Salaries

(Average salaries of students from select majors two years after graduation)

• Journalism. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,391
• Data Processing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $47,846
• Education, General. (Doctoral Degree) – $67,660
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,608
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $30,409
• Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas. (Master’s Degree) – $41,937
• Architectural Engineering Technologies/Technicians. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $52,107
• Human Development, Family Studies, and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,340
• Legal Support Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,055
• English Language and Literature, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,140
• Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $18,154
• Biology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $27,476
• Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $36,848
• Parks, Recreation and Leisure Studies. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $26,353
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Health and Physical Education/Fitness. (Master’s Degree) – $42,682
• Psychology, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $22,094
• Criminal Justice and Corrections. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,960
• Security Science and Technology. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $23,227
• Social Work. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $28,236
• Social Work. (Master’s Degree) – $37,748
• Political Science and Government. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $20,140
• Visual and Performing Arts, General. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $22,771
• Arts, Entertainment,and Media Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,508
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $21,312
• Communication Disorders Sciences and Services. (Master’s Degree) – $45,696
• Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $52,464
• Public Health. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $25,194
• Public Health. (Master’s Degree) – $61,516
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $56,254
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Master’s Degree) – $95,073
• Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing. (Doctoral Degree) – $156,846
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $33,993
• Business Administration, Management and Operations. (Master’s Degree) – $53,358
• Accounting and Related Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $37,208
• Accounting and Related Services. (Master’s Degree) – $48,432
• Finance and Financial Management Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $38,829
• Hospitality Administration/Management. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $35,420
• Human Resources Management and Services. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $40,461
• Marketing. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $34,348
• History. (Bachelor’s Degree) – $32,162

University of Southern Mississippi Diversity

The racial diversity of students who received financial aid at University of Southern Mississippi

• American Indian/Alaska Native: 0.35%
• Asian: 1.48%
• Black: 28.69%
• Hispanic: 3.92%
• Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander: 0.11%
• Non-resident alien: 1.45%
• Two or more races: 3.76%
• Unknown: 0.00%
• White: 60.24%

At University of Southern Mississippi, 18.70% of undergraduate students are 25 years old, or older.

University of Southern Mississippi Frequently Asked Questions

How is school spirit at University of Southern Mississippi?

School spirit is very strong at the University of Southern Mississippi (USM). With a long-standing legacy, rich traditions, and a strong sense of community, students, faculty, and staff come together to support and cheer on their athletic teams, participate in various campus events, and root for the Golden Eagles. The university has a very active student body, with more than 200 student organizations and clubs, which provide ample opportunities for students to get involved and build a sense of camaraderie. Overall, USM is known for fostering a strong sense of pride and school spirit among its students and community.

What are some popular extracurriculars at University of Southern Mississippi?

There are a variety of extracurriculars available at the University of Southern Mississippi. Some of the popular extracurriculars include: 1. Student Government Association 2. Greek Life 3. Campus Activities Board 4. Club Sports 5. Volunteer Opportunities 6. Honor Societies 7. Cultural and Diversity Clubs 8. Music and Performing Arts Clubs 9. Student Publications 10. Professional Organizations These are just a few examples of the many extracurricular activities that students can get involved with at the University of Southern Mississippi.

How are the food choices at University of Southern Mississippi?

The University of Southern Mississippi offers a variety of food options on campus. There are several dining halls and food courts that offer a range of cuisines, including traditional American fare, Italian, Vietnamese, and Mexican. Additionally, there are several grab-and-go options and coffee shops located throughout campus. The university also accommodates dietary restrictions, offering vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options at some of the dining locations. Overall, students at the University of Southern Mississippi have access to a diverse and satisfying selection of food choices.

Is there Greek life at University of Southern Mississippi?

Yes, the University of Southern Mississippi has a variety of Greek organizations available for students to join. There are sororities for women and fraternities for men, as well as co-ed fraternities and cultural organizations. Some of the Greek organizations at Southern Miss include Phi Kappa Tau, Delta Gamma, Sigma Chi, and Alpha Delta Pi. Joining a Greek organization can provide students with opportunities for leadership and involvement in campus activities.

What is University of Southern Mississippi known for?

The University of Southern Mississippi is known for its strong programs in the fields of marine science, polymer science, nursing, and education. The university is also recognized for its commitment to research and innovation, as well as its diverse student population and inclusive campus culture. Additionally, Southern Miss is known for its highly-regarded Honors College, which provides exceptional academic opportunities for high-achieving students. Overall, the University of Southern Mississippi is a public research university that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple disciplines.

What are the most popular school clubs at University of Southern Mississippi?

The University of Southern Mississippi has a wide range of school clubs and organizations which cater to a wide range of interests. Some of the most popular school clubs include the Student Government Association, EagleTHON (which is a dance marathon for the Children’s Miracle Network), Golden Eagle Sound Wave (marching band), Southern Explosion dance team, Outdoor Adventures Club, among others. Additionally, there are many academic, cultural, and special interest groups on campus for students to get involved with.

Is the campus at University of Southern Mississippi safe?

The University of Southern Mississippi is generally considered safe. They have a campus police department that enforces laws on campus and provides services such as safety escorts and emergency response. The university also has a comprehensive safety plan to ensure the safety and well-being of its students and staff. Like any campus, it is always recommended to take precautions and be aware of your surroundings.