Compare Mississippi Online MBA Program Averages to Online and National Averages
$21,282
Average Tuition and Fees
$64,196
Average Starting Salary
581
Average GMAT Scores
106
Average Student Enrollment
Averages | Mississippi | Online | US |
---|---|---|---|
Average MBA Tuition | $21,282 | $38,875 | $43,476 |
Average Graduate Salary | $64,196 | $67,685 | $81,243 |
Average Graduate ROI | 185% | 153% | 146% |
Average GMAT Scores | 581 | 557 | 561 |
Average Student Faculty Ratio | 17:1 | 17:1 | 16:1 |
Average Full-Time MBA Enrollment | 106 | 298 | 286 |
10 Ways Exceptional Value Meets Online MBA Affordability in Mississippi
In the heart of the South, Mississippi is carving out a niche for itself in business education. The state’s affordable business schools are offering alternatives to pricier programs, with tuition rates that often fall well below both the state and national averages. While exact figures vary, many of these programs boast tuition costs ranging from $10,000 to $30,000 per year, compared to the national average of around $60,000 for top MBA programs. This cost-effectiveness doesn’t come at the expense of quality, though. Mississippi’s business schools are aligning their offerings with the state’s economic pillars, providing specializations in areas like agribusiness, healthcare management, and advanced manufacturing – sectors that are driving Mississippi’s economy forward.
But what exactly makes these affordable programs stand out? Let’s dive into the top 10 benefits that make Mississippi’s budget-friendly business schools a smart choice for aspiring leaders.
#1: Industry-Aligned Specializations
Mississippi’s affordable business schools are in tune with the state’s economic pulse. The University of Southern Mississippi, for instance, offers a unique specialization in Economic Development, capitalizing on the state’s push for business growth. Meanwhile, Mississippi State University’s MBA program includes a concentration in Supply Chain Management, aligning perfectly with the state’s manufacturing and distribution sectors. These tailored programs ensure graduates are primed for success in Mississippi’s key industries, from agriculture to aerospace.
#2: Innovative Learning Approaches
Affordability doesn’t mean outdated. Schools like Belhaven University are pioneering innovative learning approaches, offering a fully online MBA program with a focus on entrepreneurship and innovation. Delta State University takes it a step further with its Integrated MBA program, which combines traditional business courses with hands-on projects and internships. These forward-thinking approaches ensure students are well-equipped to tackle real-world business challenges, all while keeping costs manageable.
#3: Strong Regional Connections
Mississippi’s affordable business schools leverage their strong regional ties to benefit students. The University of Mississippi’s Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, for example, connects students with local startups and established businesses for internships and mentorship opportunities. Similarly, Jackson State University’s College of Business maintains close relationships with major employers in the Jackson metro area, providing students with invaluable networking opportunities and potential job leads.
#4: Focus on Emerging Technologies
Despite their affordability, many of Mississippi’s business schools are at the forefront of technological innovation. Mississippi College’s MBA program, for instance, offers a concentration in Cybersecurity Management, addressing a critical need in today’s digital business landscape. Alcorn State University’s School of Business includes courses on blockchain technology and its applications in finance and supply chain management. This focus on cutting-edge tech ensures graduates are prepared for the digital transformation sweeping across industries.
#5: Emphasis on Sustainable Business Practices
Recognizing the growing importance of sustainability in business, many of Mississippi’s affordable MBA programs are incorporating green business practices into their curricula. The University of Southern Mississippi’s MBA program includes courses on environmental economics and sustainable business strategies. Meanwhile, Millsaps College offers a concentration in Sustainability and Social Innovation, preparing students to lead in an increasingly eco-conscious business world.
#6: Global Business Perspective
Despite their regional focus, Mississippi’s business schools are committed to providing a global perspective. William Carey University’s International Business program includes study abroad opportunities and courses on cross-cultural management. Mississippi State University’s International Business program features collaborations with universities in Europe and Asia, offering students a truly global learning experience without the premium price tag of more expensive international programs.
#7: Executive Education and Professional Development
Many of Mississippi’s affordable business schools extend their value beyond degree programs. Delta State University, for example, offers executive education programs tailored to working professionals looking to upskill. The University of Mississippi provides a series of professional development workshops and certificates, allowing students and alumni to continually update their skills in areas like data analytics and digital marketing.
#8: Entrepreneurship Incubators
Fostering the next generation of business leaders is a priority for Mississippi’s affordable business schools. Jackson State University’s Innovation Center serves as a startup incubator, providing resources and mentorship for student entrepreneurs. Similarly, the University of Southern Mississippi’s Eagle Startup Accelerator program offers funding and support for student-led ventures, turning classroom concepts into real-world businesses.
#9: Flexible Learning Options
Recognizing the diverse needs of their student body, Mississippi’s affordable business schools offer flexible learning options. Belhaven University’s accelerated MBA program can be completed in as little as 12 months, catering to students eager to fast-track their careers. Mississippi College offers both fully online and hybrid MBA options, allowing students to balance their education with work and personal commitments.
#10: Strong Alumni Networks
Despite their affordability, Mississippi’s business schools boast robust alumni networks that span the globe. The University of Mississippi’s Ole Miss Business Alumni Network, for instance, connects graduates with mentorship and job opportunities across various industries. Mississippi State University’s Alumni Association maintains active chapters in major cities, providing graduates with a valuable professional network long after they’ve left campus.
In conclusion, Mississippi’s affordable business schools offer a compelling blend of value, quality, and relevance. By aligning their programs with the state’s economic needs, embracing innovative teaching methods, and focusing on emerging business trends, these institutions are proving that world-class business education doesn’t have to come with a world-class price tag. For aspiring business leaders looking to maximize their return on investment, Mississippi’s affordable business schools present an opportunity that’s hard to ignore.
Our Top 5 Picks for Affordable Online MBA Programs in Mississippi
#1 in Mississippi
Mississippi State University
- PO Box 5288, Mississippi State, MS - 39762-5288
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Doctoral, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Full-Time, Online
Business School Details
Student / Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Tuition and Fees: $12,294
Total Enrollment: 3,621
Concentrations: Accounting, Economics, Education, Entrepreneurship +7 more
Ranking: MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: N/A
Graduate Salary: $91,600
AACSB Accredited: Business and Accounting
Graduate ROI: 373%
MBAGuide Rankings:
Mississippi State University's College of Business MBA program is a catalyst for career transformation, offering students a unique blend of academic rigor and real-world application. This program produces future business leaders who can navigate the complex landscape of Mississippi's diverse industries. From aerospace to agriculture, the MBA curriculum aligns seamlessly with the state's economic pillars, providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in these sectors.
What sets this program apart is its deep-rooted connections with industry leaders. Aside from learning about business theories; students apply them through hands-on experiences and consulting projects with actively operating enterprises. This relationship between academia and industry ensures that graduates are not only well-versed in current business practices but are also prepared to drive innovation and growth in Mississippi's key economic sectors.
Accelerated Learning Experience
The accelerated on-campus MBA program at Mississippi State University is designed for those who want to fast-track their career growth. This intensive program allows students to complete their degree in a shorter time frame without compromising on the quality of education. It's an ideal choice for professionals who are ready to immerse themselves fully in their studies and emerge quickly with enhanced skills and knowledge.
Cohort-Based Structure
One of the program's standout features is its cohort-based structure. Students enter and complete the program as a team. Such setupfosters a collaborative learning environment that mirrors real-world business settings. This approach not only enhances the learning experience but also builds a strong professional network that can prove invaluable throughout one's career. The bonds formed during the program often last well beyond graduation, creating a supportive alumni community.
MBA+ Professional Development Workshops
Mississippi State also has MBA+ professional development workshops. These workshops go beyond traditional classroom learning, focusing on developing crucial soft skills such as leadership, communication, and problem-solving. By participating in these workshops, students gain a competitive edge in the job market, equipped with the well-rounded skill set that employers crave.
Flexible Learning Options
Recognizing the diverse needs of modern students, Mississippi State offers both on-campus and online MBA options. This flexibility allows students to choose the learning format that best fits their lifestyle and career goals. Whether you're a full-time student, a working professional, or balancing family commitments, there's a path for you to earn your MBA without putting your life on hold.
Affordable Excellence
In a landscape where MBA programs can often come with a hefty price tag, Mississippi State University stands out for its affordability. Ranked as one of the most affordable AACSB-accredited online MBA programs, it offers exceptional value for money. This affordability doesn't come at the cost of quality – the program consistently ranks highly in national surveys, proving that excellence and affordability can go hand in hand.
#2 in Mississippi
Jackson State University
- 1325 J.R. Lynch Street, Jackson, MS - 39217-0960
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Doctoral, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate
- Offered as: Campus, Full-Time, Online
Business School Details
Student / Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Tuition and Fees: $15,000
Total Enrollment: 943
Concentrations: Accounting, Economics, Entrepreneurship, Finance +4 more
Ranking: MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 568
Graduate Salary: $55,900
AACSB Accredited: Business
Graduate ROI: 186%
MBAGuide Rankings:
Jackson State University's College of Business MBA program is a gateway for driven professionals eager to make a difference in Mississippi's bustling business scene. This AACSB-accredited program helps you have a life-changing experience that aligns with the state's growing industries. From advanced manufacturing to aerospace, JSU’s MBA curriculum is designed to give students the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in Mississippi's major economic sectors.
JSU has a competitive because of its strong ties with industry leaders. The program’s partnerships with companies like Deloitte Foundation show its dedication to connecting academic learning with real-world business challenges. These collaborations ensure that students are actively engaging with the practical aspects of business leadership in Mississippi’s changing economy.
Accelerated Learning Pathway
JSU’s MBA program offers an accelerated on-campus option, perfect for ambitious students who want to quickly advance their careers. This intensive program allows students to deeply focus on their studies and quickly gain advanced skills and knowledge. It’s ideal for those ready to fully immerse themselves in their education and start working in their chosen field as soon as possible.
Cohort-Based Structure
One unique feature of the program is its cohort-based approach. Students move through the program together, creating a collaborative learning environment that mirrors real-world business settings. This structure not only enhances the learning experience but also helps build a strong professional network. The connections made during the program often last well beyond graduation, forming a supportive alumni community across Mississippi's industries.
Flexible Online MBA Option
Understanding the diverse needs of today’s students, JSU offers a fully online MBA option. This flexibility is especially beneficial for working professionals or those with family commitments. The online program maintains the same rigorous curriculum and engaging experiences as the on-campus version. This adaptability allows students to earn their MBA without pausing their lives, making it a great choice for those looking to advance their careers while balancing other responsibilities.
MBA+ Professional Development Workshops
JSU’s MBA+ professional development workshops are a special feature that gives students an edge. These workshops go beyond traditional classroom learning by focusing on essential soft skills like leadership, communication, and problem-solving. Participating in these workshops helps students develop the well-rounded skill set that employers in Mississippi’s top industries are looking for. It’s not just about what you know; it’s about how effectively you can apply that knowledge in real-world business scenarios.
Affordable Excellence
In a world where MBA programs can be very expensive, JSU manages to offer an affordable program without sacrificing quality. Do you know that the program is consistently ranked as one of the most affordable AACSB-accredited MBA options? This is the reason why it's a great choice for budget-conscious students who still want top-notch education. This combination of affordability and quality ensures that students receive excellent value for their investment.
#3 in Mississippi
University of Southern Mississippi
- 211 Joseph A. Greene Hall, Hattiesburg, MS - 39406-0001
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Doctoral, Graduate Level Certificate, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate, Undergraduate Certificate
- Offered as: Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
Student / Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Tuition and Fees: $17,131
Total Enrollment: 2,225
Concentrations: Accounting, Data Analytics, Economics, Education +10 more
Ranking: MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 660
Graduate Salary: $62,300
AACSB Accredited: Business and Accounting
Graduate ROI: 182%
MBAGuide Rankings:
The University of Southern Mississippi’s College of Business and Economic Development offers an MBA program that can change your career in Mississippi. With a curriculum designed to match the state's booming industries, like aerospace, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and tourism, USM's MBA gives students the skills they need to succeed in Mississippi’s business world. The program's strong connections with local and regional companies provide students with valuable networking opportunities and real-world experiences. Whether you want to move up in your career or start your own business, USM's MBA program offers the perfect mix of academic knowledge and practical experience to help you reach your goals.
Customizable Curriculum
USM's MBA program is unique with its 15-15 structure: 15 hours of core business courses combined with 15 hours of specialized electives. This setup lets students customize their degree to match their career goals, whether that's in public health, supply chain management, or even sport security. The result? Graduates leave with a solid business foundation and specialized knowledge that makes them stand out in the job market.
Flexible Learning Options
Understanding the different needs of today’s students, USM offers its MBA program in several formats. You can choose from fully online courses, in-person classes at the Hattiesburg campus, or a hybrid approach. This flexibility allows working professionals to balance their education with their job and personal lives, making it easier for more people to pursue an MBA.
Global Perspective
USM’s MBA program prepares you for success not just in Mississippi, but in the global business world. With study abroad options in London, Italy, and Asia, as well as a unique study opportunity in Hawaii, students can gain important international experience. These programs provide a firsthand look at different business practices and cultures, broadening perspectives and improving cross-cultural communication skills.
Expert Faculty and Industry Connections
At USM, you'll learn from faculty who are not just teachers but also experienced professionals. This mix of theoretical knowledge and practical insights ensures that what you learn in class is relevant to real-world business challenges. Additionally, the program's strong connections with local and regional businesses offer many opportunities for networking, internships, and potential job placements.
Accelerated Completion Options
For those looking to quickly advance their careers, USM's MBA program offers an accelerated path to graduation. Full-time students can earn their degree in as little as one calendar year, while part-time students usually finish in about five semesters. This fast timeline allows graduates to apply their new skills and knowledge in the workplace sooner, which can lead to quicker career advancement and higher earning potential.
#4 in Mississippi
The University of Mississippi
School of Business Administration
- PO Box 1848, 253 Holman, Oxford, MS - 38677-1848
- Institution Control: Public
- Academic Year:
- Accreditation: AACSB
- Award Levels: Doctoral, Masters in Business, Masters Specialist, Undergraduate
- Offered as: 1-Year, Campus, Distance Education, Evenings, Full-Time, Online, Part-Time, Weekends
Business School Details
Student / Faculty Ratio: 35:1
Tuition and Fees: $25,914
Total Enrollment: 4,401
Concentrations: Accounting, Business Analytics, Data Analytics, Entrepreneurship +14 more
Ranking: US News, BW and MBAGuide
Average GMAT Score: 532
Graduate Salary: $60,977
AACSB Accredited: Business and Accounting
Graduate ROI: 118%
MBAGuide Rankings:
The University of Mississippi’s School of Business Administration's MBA program is designed with transformative education in mind. With AACSB accreditation and a curriculum aligned with the state’s major industries—like advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and agriculture—Ole Miss's MBA is designed to launch careers. The program’s strong connections with local industries, including partnerships with major corporations and startups, ensure that students learn not just theory, but also how to apply it in real-world situations. Whether you want a top executive role or dream of starting your own business, the Ole Miss MBA gives you the tools to succeed in Mississippi’s diverse business landscape.
Flexibility That Fits Your Life
Ole Miss understands that education needs to be flexible. That’s why their MBA program offers multiple pathways to success. You can choose a one-year campus MBA if you’re ready for full-time study, or opt for the online MBA, ranked in the top 10 by U.S. News & World Report, which is perfect for working professionals balancing career and education. This flexibility ensures that whether you’re a recent grad or an experienced professional, you can earn your MBA without putting your life on hold.
Global Perspective, Local Impact
While the Ole Miss MBA is deeply rooted in Mississippi’s business culture, it also offers a global perspective. With international study opportunities and a curriculum focused on global business practices, students gain a broad worldview essential in today’s economy. Imagine studying market trends in London or learning about supply chain management in Asia—these experiences not only expand your horizons but also make Ole Miss graduates stand out in the job market.
Cutting-Edge Curriculum
The Ole Miss MBA isn’t just about textbooks and lectures. It’s a dynamic program that evolves with the business world. With courses on topics like data analytics and entrepreneurship, students are always learning the latest in business innovation. The program’s focus on strategic thinking and leadership development ensures that graduates are ready not just for their next job, but for a lifetime of career success.
Networking Goldmine
At Ole Miss, your classmates and professors are just the start of your professional network. The school’s strong alumni network, which spans many industries and countries, is an invaluable resource for career opportunities and mentorship. Regular networking events, guest lectures from industry leaders, and collaborative projects create connections that can boost your career long after graduation.
Affordable Excellence
In a world where MBA programs can be very expensive, Ole Miss offers great value. The program provides top-quality education without the high costs, making it a smart choice. Scholarships, assistantships, and flexible payment options make it even more accessible, ensuring that financial challenges don’t stop you from getting your MBA. It’s a smart investment in your future that won’t break the bank.
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