Mississippi Valley State University

Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU) is a public historically black university located in Itta Bena, Mississippi. Established in 1950, MVSU offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs and is a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.

Academics

MVSU offers undergraduate and graduate degrees through its College of Arts & Sciences, College of Professional Studies, College of Education, and the Graduate School. The university is classified as a Carnegie Master's University, providing comprehensive programs in various fields. Notable programs include Business Administration, Education, Humanities and Social Sciences, Mathematics, Computer & Information Sciences, Natural Science and Environmental Health, and Nursing. MVSU emphasizes a commitment to academic excellence and high-quality instruction.

International Students

MVSU welcomes international applicants and provides support services to aid in their integration. The Office of International Programs assists with I-20 issuance, USCIS registration, and offers a Gateway Leadership Ambassadors Program (GLAP) to connect new international students with U.S. students. To be admitted, international students typically need a TOEFL score of 525 (195 computer-based) or higher, or an IELTS score of at least 5.5. An affidavit of financial sponsorship and evaluated transcripts are also required.

Campus & Location

Mississippi Valley State University is situated on a 450-acre campus in Leflore County, one mile northeast of Itta Bena, Mississippi. Itta Bena is a small city with a population of 1,679 as of the 2020 census, offering a close-knit community environment. The campus features modern facilities and is approximately five miles from Greenwood and about 100 miles north of Jackson. The university's location in the Mississippi Delta provides a unique cultural landscape.

Career Outcomes

Graduates of Mississippi Valley State University experience varied earning outcomes, with those in business-related areas tending to achieve higher median earnings. While the university's graduation rates are lower than national standards, MVSU aims to prepare students for successful careers and further education. The Department of Engineering Technology, for example, highlights strong demand and career advancement opportunities for its graduates. MVSU's career services work to connect students with employment opportunities.