Mississippi State University (MSU) is a public land-grant research university located in Starkville, Mississippi. The Carnegie Foundation classifies MSU as a Research University with Very High Research Activity. As of 2023, the university enrolls approximately 21,000 students from all 50 states and over 80 countries.
MSU offers over 150 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including nationally recognized programs in engineering, business, education, and agriculture. The university is also home to the Mississippi State Bulldogs, who compete in the Southeastern Conference (SEC).
Tuition Costs
MSU’s tuition rates vary depending on a student’s residency status and whether they are pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree.
In-State Undergraduate Tuition
* 2023-2024: $8,964 per year
* 2024-2025: $9,266 per year
Out-of-State Undergraduate Tuition
* 2023-2024: $24,716 per year
* 2024-2025: $25,618 per year
In-State Graduate Tuition
* Master’s Degree: $9,660 per year
* Doctoral Degree: $10,230 per year
Out-of-State Graduate Tuition
* Master’s Degree: $26,662 per year
* Doctoral Degree: $27,630 per year
Additional Fees
In addition to tuition, students may also have to pay additional fees, such as:
- Student fees: $826 per semester
- Technology fee: $750 per semester
- Health insurance fee (for students not covered by a parent’s or spouse’s health insurance): $1,232 per semester
Financial Aid
MSU offers a variety of financial aid options to help students pay for their education, including:
- Scholarships
- Grants
- Loans
- Work-study programs
For the 2022-2023 academic year, MSU awarded over $180 million in financial aid to its students.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When it comes to paying for college, there are a few common mistakes that students and families should avoid:
- Not applying for financial aid. Many students who qualify for financial aid don’t apply because they think they won’t get any money. However, even if you think you won’t qualify, it’s always worth applying.
- Borrowing too much money. It’s important to borrow only what you need to cover your education costs. Student loans can be a great way to pay for college, but they can also be a burden if you borrow too much.
- Not understanding your repayment options. Before you sign a student loan, make sure you understand your repayment options and how much you’ll have to pay each month.
Pros and Cons of Attending MSU
Pros:
- Highly respected academic programs. MSU’s academic programs are nationally recognized, and the university is consistently ranked among the top public research universities in the country.
- Affordable tuition rates. MSU’s tuition rates are competitive with other public universities in the region.
- Generous financial aid packages. MSU offers a variety of financial aid options to help students pay for their education.
- Vibrant campus life. MSU has a vibrant campus life with a variety of student organizations, clubs, and activities.
- Strong athletic programs. MSU’s athletic teams compete in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), one of the most competitive conferences in the country.
Cons:
- Large class sizes. MSU is a large university, and class sizes can be large, especially in introductory courses.
- Limited student housing. MSU has a limited number of on-campus housing options, so students may have to live off campus.
- Hot and humid climate. Starkville, Mississippi has a hot and humid climate, which can be uncomfortable during the summer months.
Conclusion
Mississippi State University is a great option for students who are looking for a high-quality education at an affordable price. The university offers a wide range of academic programs, a vibrant campus life, and strong athletic programs. However, students should be aware of the potential drawbacks of attending MSU, such as the large class sizes and the hot and humid climate.