Earning a master’s degree in Mississippi can open doors to new career opportunities. However, attending classes in person isn’t always realistic. An online master’s degree removes location as a barrier, allowing you to complete coursework through virtual platforms on a flexible schedule. This guide explores top schools offering online master’s degrees in Mississippi, along with key details on cost, accreditation, and admissions to help you make an informed choice.
Author: Holly Riddle
Expertise: Graduate Ed.Online LearningCareersEditor: Jordan Cosselman
- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - Top Concentrations
The most promising fields in the state, based on job outlook, earning potential, affordability, and local opportunities…
Read more - Accreditation Details
What accreditation is, why it matters, and the accrediting bodies relevant for students in this state…
Read more - Program Types
The variety of online master’s programs offered in the state, from full-time and part-time to accelerated formats…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
Read more - Top Schools
Top Online Master’s Degree Programs in Mississippi
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Inside Three Online Master’s Programs in Mississippi
University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
The University of Mississippi, often called Ole Miss, offers a wide range of 100% online master’s programs in fields such as business, education, healthcare, and law. As Mississippi’s flagship university, Ole Miss delivers the same curriculum and faculty expertise online as it does on campus.
Students benefit from small class sizes, a cohort model, and up to five start dates per year, making it easier to begin when you’re ready. Whether you’re pursuing an MBA, a teaching-focused degree, or a niche specialty like air and space law, Ole Miss blends flexibility with the resources of a major research institution.
Highlighted Program: Master of Public Health (MPH)
Duration: 18 months
Mode: 100% online
Cost: $609 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 undergraduate credits
- Résumé or CV
- 400-500 word statement of purpose outlining public health goals
Mississippi State University (MSU)
Mississippi State University offers one of the broadest selections of online master’s degrees in the state, including programs in engineering, computer science, business, education, and agriculture. MSU’s Center for Distance Education ensures online students receive the same academic rigor as on-campus learners.
A major advantage is affordability: all online students pay in-state tuition, regardless of residency. With strong support services — such as advising, tutoring, and technical help — MSU is a solid option for working professionals. Students may enroll part-time or full-time and begin in the fall, spring, or summer.
Highlighted Program: Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Duration: 2-3 years
Mode: 100% online
Cost: $558 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Competitive undergraduate GPA (no stated minimum)
University of Southern Mississippi (Southern Miss)
The University of Southern Mississippi provides a wide range of fully online master’s programs and is well-known for pairing academic rigor with affordability. Southern Miss waives out-of-state tuition for online students, making it a cost-effective option nationwide.
Programs span fields such as criminal justice, education, business, public health, and library science. Many courses are asynchronous, allowing students to study on their own schedules. Online learners also receive support through the Office of Online Learning and dedicated enrollment coaches.
Highlighted Program: Master of Library and Information Science (MLIS)
Duration: 2 years
Mode: 100% online
Cost: $556 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- 1-2 page statement of purpose
- Two letters of recommendation
- Current résumé
In-Demand Master’s Degrees in Mississippi
1. Education and Teaching
Education remains one of Mississippi’s most critical fields, with ongoing shortages of teachers and administrators. A Master of Education (MEd) or Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) can lead to advanced licensure, leadership roles, or specialization in high-need areas such as special education or STEM.
Mississippi incentivizes graduate-prepared teachers through salary increases and residency programs, many of which cover the cost of a master’s degree. With multiple online education programs available, teachers can advance their credentials without leaving the classroom.
2. Business Administration and Management
Business degrees offer strong return on investment in Mississippi, supporting industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, finance, and logistics. An MBA or specialized business master’s degree builds leadership, finance, and strategic skills tied to higher earning potential.
Business professionals consistently rank among the highest-paid workers in Mississippi, and the state’s low cost of living makes these degrees especially attractive. Many universities offer online MBAs tailored for working adults.
3. Nursing and Healthcare
Healthcare remains a high-need field statewide. Online programs such as the MSN, MHA, and MPH prepare graduates to address provider shortages and public health challenges.
Mississippi has 3.49 nurse practitioner jobs per 1,000 jobs — the second-highest rate nationally — due to limited access to primary care physicians, particularly in rural areas. Advanced practice nurses and healthcare administrators play a critical role in closing these gaps.
4. Computer Science and Information Technology
Mississippi’s demand for IT professionals continues to grow, especially in cybersecurity, data analytics, and software development. Tech roles also rank among the highest-paying jobs in the state, with computer and information research scientists earning around $107,000 annually.
Mississippi universities have responded by offering online master’s programs in computer science and cybersecurity, often in partnership with national research organizations such as the NSA.
5. Engineering and Applied Sciences
From shipbuilding and aerospace to energy and agriculture, Mississippi’s economy depends heavily on engineers and applied scientists. A master’s degree in engineering or applied science can support advancement into R&D, design, or management roles.
Mississippi State and other universities offer online programs in areas such as aerospace, mechanical, and industrial engineering, emphasizing practical, industry-aligned skills.
Accreditation for Online Master’s Programs in Mississippi
Accreditation ensures quality and credibility. Mississippi’s major universities hold regional accreditation from SACSCOC, which is required for federal financial aid and degree recognition.
Many programs also carry specialized accreditation, including:
- AACSB – Business
- CAEP – Education
- CCNE – Nursing
- ALA – Library science
Always confirm both institutional and program-level accreditation before enrolling.
Types of Online Master’s Programs in Mississippi
Full-Time Online Programs
Designed for students who can commit significant time:
- Faster completion, heavier workload
- 9+ credits per term
- Finish in 12–18 months
Examples in MS:
- University of Mississippi: Master of Business Administration
- Mississippi State University: Master of Science (MS) in Cyber Security and Operations
Part-Time Online Programs
Ideal for working professionals:
- 1–2 courses per term
- Finish in 2–3 years
- Flexible pacing
Examples in MS:
- Mississippi University for Women: Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Creative Writing
- Delta State University: Master of Commercial Aviation
Online Programs with No GRE Required
Many programs now waive standardized tests:
- Faster, more accessible admissions
- Focus on GPA, experience, and recommendations
Examples in MS:
- University of Southern Mississippi: Master of Business Administration (MBA)
- University of Mississippi: Master of Public Health (MPH)
Accelerated Online Programs
Accelerated tracks use shorter terms and year-round schedules:
- Intensive, fast-paced coursework
- Finish in ~1 year
Examples in MS:
- University of Mississippi: Accelerated MBA
- University of Southern Mississippi: MS in Logistics, Trade, and Transportation
The Price of an Online Master’s in Mississippi
Mississippi offers some of the most affordable graduate tuition in the nation. Public university tuition typically ranges from $500-$600 per credit.
That means a 30-credit master’s program might cost roughly $15,000 to $18,000 in tuition, while a longer 36- to 42-credit program could be around $20,000 to $25,000 total. Keep in mind that many Mississippi schools charge the same tuition for online students, regardless of residency. For example, Southern Miss waives out-of-state fees for fully online programs.
Besides tuition, consider fees, as online programs may have a per-credit technology fee. Overall, the cost factors include the number of credits, cost per credit, fees, and any travel for hybrid components.
The below table shows a snapshot of costs for three Mississippi universities’ online master’s programs:
| School | No. of Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Mississippi — Online MPH | 42 | $609 | $25,578 |
| Mississippi State University — Online MBA | 30 | $584 | $17,520 |
| University of Southern Mississippi — Online Criminal Justice MS | 30 | $556.12 | $16,680 |
Answering Questions from Mississippi Master’s Students
Q: Can I enroll in an online master’s program from a Mississippi school if I don’t live there, and will I pay out-of-state tuition?
A: Yes, and often at in-state rates.
Most Mississippi universities welcome out-of-state online students, and many waive nonresident tuition. Schools like Southern Miss and Mississippi State charge the same rate regardless of location. Always confirm state authorization, as some specialized programs may have restrictions.
Q: Will my online master’s degree from a Mississippi university be respected by employers?
A: Yes. Accredited online degrees carry the same weight as on-campus degrees, and diplomas typically do not note delivery format. Highlight program accreditation, applied projects, and skills gained to strengthen employer confidence.
Q: What kind of support will I have as an online master’s student in Mississippi?
A: Online students receive robust support. Expect access to advising, tutoring, libraries, IT help, writing centers, and career services. Many universities also offer 24/7 technical support and virtual student communities.
Q: How can I finance my online master’s program? Are there scholarships or assistantships for online students in Mississippi?
A: Multiple funding options are available. Start with the FAFSA to access federal financial aid. Schools may offer scholarships for graduate or online students, and many employers provide tuition assistance. Some programs also offer limited virtual assistantships.
Q: Do I ever need to visit campus during an online master’s program, or is it entirely online?
A: Usually no, but it depends on the program.
Many programs are fully online with no campus visits. Others may require local practicums or short residencies, which are typically disclosed upfront. Optional campus events, such as orientation or graduation, are usually not mandatory.