U.S. Department of Agriculture

Alcorn State University, located in Lorman, Mississippi, was established in 1870 and is recognized as a historically black university (HBCU). The institution offers a diverse range of academic programs, including associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and specialist degrees across seven schools, with disciplines spanning liberal arts, sciences, agriculture, business, education, and psychology. Alcorn State fosters an inclusive community and vibrant student life, featuring over 40 clubs and organizations that promote diversity and leadership opportunities. Admissions are conducted on a rolling basis with specific criteria based on high school GPA and ACT scores. The university maintains a drug and smoke-free campus and offers lower tuition rates for Mississippi residents. Financial aid options are available for students who complete the FAFSA application, encompassing federal, state, and private assistance.

One of the largest universities in the state of Mississippi, University of Southern Mississippi (Southern Miss) is home to one of the most impressive Performing and Visual Arts programs in the country, as well as a range of other academic offerings and a host of opportunities. Granting bachelor’s, master’s and doctoral degrees in Liberal Arts, Humanities, Education, Psychology, Business, Health Sciences and Technology, Southern Miss has a major to suit every educational interest and professional goal. USM’s Theatre and Music departments are particularly impressive, as its theatre company and students have received national awards and recognition. The Theatre Department has even been selected to perform in national festivals and productions, including one of the most prestigious held at Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. Students in the University Symphony Orchestra have also garnered much attention and achieved great success, having regularly been invited to perform with renowned figures in the classical music industry. Its science division is also worth mentioning, boasting the renowned Polymer Science Research Center, one of many research centers throughout the university. There is also no lack of campus activity. Numerous restaurants, lounges, food courts and other meeting places are located throughout the campus. Even more impressive, Southern Miss is home to more than 280 student clubs and organizations, which cover a wide range of interests. Since Southern Miss is a state university, Mississippi residents pay a substantially lower tuition. Financial aid is also available to qualifying students with financial need. SAT scores and one’s academic record are used in evaluating undergraduates in the standard admissions process. However, students with a low performance record may still apply for conditional admission to the university. Graduate admissions policies vary from one department to another.