University of Southern Mississippi
Southern Miss: Inspire. Innovate. Impact.
📍 Hattiesburg, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #274 in United States · THE World #1001
Quick Facts about University of Southern Mississippi
- Type: Public
- Students: 13,110
- International: 7%
- Campus: Multiple Campuses
- Tuition: $8,514 – $12,000/year
- Language: English, French, Spanish
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 18:1
- Intakes: January, August, May
About University of Southern Mississippi
Academics
USM offers over 189 baccalaureate, master's, and doctorate degrees across various fields, including business, education, engineering, arts, and sciences. The university is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. The Graduate School provides an extensive selection of degree and certificate programs, with over 3,000 graduate students from around the globe impacting fields like ocean science, psychology, social work, nursing, business, and the arts. The College of Business and Economic Development, for example, is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB).
International Students
International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) at USM coordinates all aspects of international student support, serving as a liaison with government agencies and ensuring regulatory compliance for F and J visa holders. ISSS provides orientation, educational workshops on immigration and cultural topics, counseling on personal and cultural issues, and opportunities for intercultural programs. USM's student body includes over 650 international students from more than 80 countries. Various international student organizations, such as the African Caribbean Society, Bangladeshi Student Association, Chinese Students and Scholars Association, Indian Student Association, Latinx Student Association, Nepalese Student Association, and Nigerian Student Association, foster cultural integration and community.
Campus & Location
Hattiesburg, Mississippi, offers a low cost of living, making it an affordable college town. The campus features a lively student life with over 200 student organizations covering service, social, religious, and professional interests. The University Police Department provides 24-hour patrol, a hotline, and late-night transportation services to ensure student safety. Campus events include football tailgates, concerts, and a large crawfish boil, reflecting Southern traditions.
Career Outcomes
USM's Office of Career Services assists students with career exploration, developing job-seeking skills, and connecting with employment opportunities. They offer resources like career fairs, workshops on resume building, and professional headshot events. The Center for Entrepreneurship guides students from idea to startup, fostering innovation and connecting them with resources. The university also has an Office of Commercialization that aims to turn USM research into real-world products.
Information for International Students at University of Southern Mississippi
University of Southern Mississippi in Hattiesburg, United States welcomes international students, with 7% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 7% of students are international
- Visa support available
- On-campus work allowed
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English, French, Spanish
Admissions Requirements for University of Southern Mississippi
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to University of Southern Mississippi:
- IELTS minimum: 6
- TOEFL minimum: 71
- GPA minimum: 2.5
- Application fee: $45
- Selectivity: Open (60%+)
- Application deadline: Fall admission (August start date) – May 1. Spring admission (January start date) – October 1.
Programs at University of Southern Mississippi (18 programs)
University of Southern Mississippi offers 18 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (10)
- Marketing (BSBA) — 48 months · English · $9,876/yr
This program covers consumer behavior, market research, advertising, and digital marketing strategies, essential for success in today's competitive marketplace.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Marketing Manager, Brand Manager, Market Research Analyst, Sales Manager - Nursing (BSN) — 48 months · English · $9,876/yr · STEM
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program prepares students to become registered nurses, providing comprehensive patient care in various healthcare settings.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Registered Nurse, Nurse Practitioner, Healthcare Administrator - Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $9,876/yr
Students gain an understanding of human behavior and mental processes, with options for specialization in areas like clinical, developmental, or cognitive psychology.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Counselor, Social Worker, Researcher - Chemistry (BS) — 48 months · English · $9,876/yr · STEM
This program provides a strong foundation in chemical principles, preparing students for careers in industry, research, or further graduate studies.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Chemist, Laboratory Technician, Pharmaceutical Scientist - Accounting (BSBA) — 48 months · English · $9,876/yr
This program prepares students for careers in public, private, and governmental accounting, focusing on financial reporting, auditing, and taxation.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Accountant, Auditor, Tax Preparer - Criminal Justice (BS) — 48 months · English · $9,876/yr
Students examine the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, courts, and corrections, preparing for careers in public service and related fields.
Field: Social Sciences
Career outcomes: Police Officer, Paralegal, Corrections Officer - Biological Sciences (BS) — 48 months · English · $9,876/yr · STEM
Students explore the fundamental principles of biology, including genetics, ecology, and cellular biology, preparing for diverse scientific and health-related careers.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Biologist, Research Assistant, Healthcare Professional - Finance (BSBA) — 48 months · English · $9,876/yr
Students learn about financial markets, investments, corporate finance, and financial planning, preparing them for careers in the financial industry.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Investment Banker, Portfolio Manager, Financial Advisor - Computer Science (BS) — 48 months · English · $9,876/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the theory and application of computing, covering areas like software development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Network Administrator - History (BA) — 48 months · English · $9,876/yr
This program explores historical events, cultures, and societies, fostering critical thinking and research skills.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Historian, Archivist, Museum Curator
Master Programs (5)
- Public Health (MPH) — 24 months · English · $10,500/yr
The Master of Public Health program focuses on preventing disease, promoting health, and improving community well-being through various public health interventions.
Field: Health Sciences
Career outcomes: Public Health Specialist, Epidemiologist, Health Educator - Business Administration (MBA) — 24 months · English · $10,500/yr
This program develops leadership and management skills, covering core business functions such as finance, marketing, and operations.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur - Communication Studies (MA) — 24 months · English · $10,500/yr
This program explores various aspects of human communication, including interpersonal, organizational, and rhetorical communication, preparing students for diverse professional roles.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Communications Director, Public Relations Specialist, Mediator, Educator - English (MA) — 24 months · English · $10,500/yr
Students engage in advanced study of literature, rhetoric, and writing, developing critical analysis and communication skills.
Field: Humanities
Career outcomes: Writer, Editor, Educator - Polymer Science and Engineering (MS) — 24 months · English · $10,500/yr · STEM
Students delve into the synthesis, characterization, and application of polymers, preparing for careers in research and industry.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Materials Scientist, Research Engineer, Product Developer
PhD Programs (3)
- Educational Leadership (PhD) — 48 months · English · $11,200/yr
This doctoral program prepares educational leaders for roles in K-12 schools, higher education, and other educational organizations, focusing on research and policy.
Field: Education
Career outcomes: School Administrator, University Professor, Educational Consultant, Policy Analyst - Marine Science (PhD) — 48 months · English · $11,000/yr · STEM
Students conduct advanced research in marine biology, oceanography, and coastal sciences, contributing to the understanding and conservation of marine environments.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Marine Biologist, Oceanographer, Environmental Scientist - Environmental Science (PhD) — 48 months · English · $11,000/yr · STEM
Students conduct interdisciplinary research on environmental issues, including pollution, conservation, and sustainable resource management.
Field: Science
Career outcomes: Environmental Scientist, Conservationist, Policy Analyst
Scholarships & Tuition at University of Southern Mississippi
Annual tuition for international students: $8,514 – $12,000/year
✅ University of Southern Mississippi offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of University of Southern Mississippi
- National Ranking: #274 in United States
- Times Higher Education (THE): #1001
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at University of Southern Mississippi
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- No disability support info
- Campus type: Multiple Campuses
Key Highlights
- Public research university
- Diverse academic programs
- Oldest Honors College
- Strong international student support
- Vibrant campus life
Accreditation
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS)
Notable Alumni
- Brett Favre
- Jimmy Buffett
- Faith Hill
- Parker Posey
- Gerald McRaney
Frequently Asked Questions about University of Southern Mississippi
What is University of Southern Mississippi?
University of Southern Mississippi is a public university located in Hattiesburg, United States. It has approximately 13,110 students, with 7% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at University of Southern Mississippi?
Tuition fees at University of Southern Mississippi for international students range from $8,514 – $12,000/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for University of Southern Mississippi?
IELTS minimum: 6. TOEFL minimum: 71. GPA minimum: 2.5. Application fee: $45. Selectivity: Open (60%+). Application deadline: Fall admission (August start date) – May 1. Spring admission (January start date) – October 1..
What language are courses taught in at University of Southern Mississippi?
Courses at University of Southern Mississippi are taught in English and French and Spanish. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.
How many programs does University of Southern Mississippi offer?
University of Southern Mississippi offers 18 programs: 10 Bachelor's, 5 Master's, and 3 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is University of Southern Mississippi ranked?
#274 in United States · THE World #1001.
Does University of Southern Mississippi offer scholarships?
Yes, University of Southern Mississippi offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does University of Southern Mississippi provide visa support?
Yes, University of Southern Mississippi provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available. On-campus work opportunities are available.
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