Mississippi

With its deep and colorful history, strong literary heritage, good food, musical roots, and genteel people, Mississippi offers students a rich, meaningful, cultural experience, without the inconveniences of big-city life.

Mississippi is proud to be known as the Hospitality State, and the people of Mississippi make sure the state lives up to its name. Mississippians are quick to share a warm smile, let out a deep, easy laugh, and take time to talk to friends (and strangers) with that smooth drawl Southerners are known for. A short stay for study might easily become a lifetime; after all, Mississippians treat each other like family. As an international student, what better way to immerse yourself in the culture of a place than to involve yourself in the lives of its people?

Culture and Music

Looking for culture? Mississippi's got it. Located in the heart of America's "deep South," Mississippi played an important role in the country's Civil War. From the riverboats and cotton plantations of Natchez to the battlefields of Vicksburg and Corinth, Mississippi has preserved relics from this important era of America's past. Tourist destinations include beautiful antebellum homes and well-preserved battlefield parks.

Music is the heart and soul of Mississippi. Perhaps the most famous musician of all times, the King of Rock and Roll, Elvis Presley, was born in Tupelo. Just southwest of Tupelo, you’ll find another famous birthplace, the Mississippi Delta, birthplace of the blues. The Delta Blues Museum in Clarksdale traces the history of this unique musical style brought to life by musical greats, such as Muddy Waters, B.B. King, and Robert Johnson, all from Mississippi. The University of Mississippi houses the Blues Archive, the largest archive of its kind in the world. Delta State University features the state-of-the-art Delta Music Institute.

Graduate Education in Mississippi

Mississippi understands the importance of diversity, and international students play a vital role in Mississippi's educational institutions.

Mississippi's public university system is made up of eight institutions that offer undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs for every type of student, from those wanting small intimate classes to those hoping to participate in cutting-edge research. In addition to eight main campuses, the public universities offer 12 satellite locations throughout the state, as well as a comprehensive medical school.

The 70,000 students in the university System, 20 percent of which are graduate students, represent all 50 states and 113 countries.

The state is home to 15 community and junior colleges as well as 11 private colleges.

You are invited to explore the higher educational opportunities awaiting you in Mississippi. While you're here, enjoy the Southern way of life – you may just decide to stay awhile.