2019 List Of The Top Mississippi HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges/Universities)

Before the Civil Rights Era, in the south in particular, most colleges did not admit blacks.  African-American leaders founded private institutions to completely support the educational needs of African Americans students. Historically Black Colleges/Universities (HBCUs) provide a connection to black history, celebrating the culture and black trailblazers, while also offering outstanding educational programs. If you are thinking about attending a four-year HBCU in Mississippi and wondering what the top schools are, read on below.

 Today, within the great State of Mississippi, there are five 4-year HBCU colleges in the state. Top Mississippi HBCU are ranked from #1 (best) to #5. The criterion for this ranking algorithm is based on The U.S. Department of Education (SDOE) issued public and unbiased information. From each school they collect data regarding 66 academic, financial and organization evaluation factors.  

If you want to get a head start on researching, choosing and affording to attend your ideal Mississippi HBCU, read on below for the essential information regarding location, type and rating of all five of Mississippi’s 4-year HBCU colleges and universities. Whether you are looking to attend a public or private university, searching for a specific degree program of interest, or looking for the best valued HBCU in Mississippi, we can help you compare the top seven Mississippi HBCUs and find one to fit your needs.

In no particular order, the top 5 HBCU schools in Mississippi are:

Alcorn State University

Located in Alcorn State, Mississippi, Alcorn State University is the nation’s first public historically black land-grant institution, named in honor of the sitting governor of Mississippi, James L. Alcorn. It is the second-oldest state-supported institution of higher learning in Mississippi.  The total number of undergraduate students is approximately 3,200. The student to faculty ratio is 14:1. The annual costs to attend the college are around $23,000 per year.  You can take classes at campuses in Lorman, Natchez or Vicksburg or online.

Jackson State University

Located in Jackson, Mississippi, Jackson State University has approximately 8,529 graduates. The university underwent seven name changes as it grew and developed from a Christian college to a teaching college to today. The average annual costs to attend the university are around $8,000 per year (in state) and $20,000 (out of state). The university offers graduate and bachelor degrees.  Jackson State University was rated the #537 HBCU by Forbes.

Mississippi Valley State University

Located in Itta Bena Mississippi, Mississippi Valley State University is a HBCU university in the Mississippi delta. The total number of undergraduates attending the college is approximately 2,000. The student to faculty ratio is 14:1. The cost to attend the university annually is around $6,000 per year. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees.

Rust College

Located in Holly Springs, Mississippi, Rust College is a liberal arts college founded in 1866 by the Freedman’s Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church. The total number of undergraduate students is approximately 1,050. The annual costs to attend the college is around $10,000 per year.

Tougaloo College

Located in Tougaloo, Mississippi, Tugaloo College was founded in 1869 is private, independent, liberal arts institution, offering undergraduate and graduate degrees. The college offers a rich legacy as an independent, historically black liberal arts institution, and is affiliated with the United Church of Christ and Christian Church. The total number of undergraduate students is approximately 859. The annual cost to attend the college is around $10,000 per year.

Why Attend an HBCU in the State of Mississippi?

The mission of all five Mississippi HBCUs are to provide education and leadership opportunities for African American students (and all students), embrace and celebrate black culture, and provide a top notch education. Currently there are 15,000 Students attending one of the five 4-year HBCU colleges in Mississippi. Mississippi HBCUs offer courses on African American history, which students cannot typically receive at non-HBCU colleges, so this is a bonus for those looking to study black history. Also, Mississippi HBCU schools boast strong alumni connections for job opportunities.

All things considered, Mississippi HBCUs have great reputations in African American history, empowering leadership and strong academia. Average tuitions to attend Mississippi HBCUs ranges from $8,000-$10,000 per year, so begin saving for college if this is important to you. Students looking for a Mississippi HBCU to fit their needs, whether they require public or private school, small or large class size, and price range with scholarships, will find one. Apply today to begin your future at a Mississippi HBCU!