Acceptance Rate
93%
Avg. SAT
1070
75th percentile
“Jackson State University blends rich HBCU heritage with a vibrant, community-driven campus in Mississippi's capital.”
Jackson, MS
Location
Midsize City
Campus Setting
Nestled in the heart of Jackson, Mississippi, Jackson State University (JSU) carries a proud legacy as a historically Black college and university (HBCU), founded in 1877 as a seminary for African American teachers. Over nearly 150 years, it has evolved into a public institution dedicated to empowering students through education, often serving as a beacon for first-generation college-goers and those seeking a tight-knit, supportive environment. JSU's history is deeply tied to the struggle for civil rights, with its campus and alumni playing active roles in shaping social change in the South, giving the school a sense of purpose that still resonates today.
If you're a student who craves a close community where professors and peers feel like family, you'll likely thrive at JSU. The university attracts those who value cultural pride, personal growth, and a campus that prioritizes mentorship over anonymity. However, if you’re looking for a sprawling, resource-heavy university with endless options, JSU’s smaller scale and more focused mission might feel limiting.
The surrounding city of Jackson offers a mix of Southern charm and urban grit, with a rich musical and historical backdrop—think blues heritage and civil rights landmarks. Yet, the area can present challenges, as the cost of living is relatively low but some neighborhoods near campus lack the polish or amenities of larger college towns. JSU’s identity shines through its balance of history and heart, making it a place where you can feel rooted while forging your own path.
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
Test Policy
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Degree Levels Offered
Jackson State University stands out for its commitment to accessible education with a focus on fields like education, business, and the sciences, particularly through its College of Education and Human Development, which has long trained educators for Mississippi and beyond. The university also emphasizes STEM programs, with growing initiatives in biology and engineering that aim to prepare students for in-demand careers. You’ll find a learning environment where faculty prioritize student success, often taking extra steps to guide you through challenges, though introductory classes can sometimes feel crowded due to the school’s size.
Research opportunities exist, especially for undergrads in STEM fields, with projects often tied to real-world issues like public health or environmental science in the Mississippi Delta region. However, JSU doesn’t have the extensive research facilities of larger universities, so if you’re set on cutting-edge labs or highly specialized programs, you might need to look elsewhere. The academic culture here rewards persistence and engagement, encouraging you to build strong connections with professors who genuinely invest in your future.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
4,650 undergrad • 1,676 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
3%
Black / African American
93%
Hispanic / Latino
<1%
Asian
<1%
Other / Multi-racial
4%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Jackson, MS
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Life at Jackson State University pulses with energy, rooted in a strong sense of community and pride in its HBCU identity. You can expect a campus buzzing with events like step shows, Greek life activities, and the legendary Sonic Boom of the South marching band performances, which electrify game days at Veterans Memorial Stadium. Socially, JSU offers a warm, inclusive vibe where making friends comes naturally, though the party scene is present but not overpowering—many students balance fun with a focus on their goals.
Residential life plays a big role, with most undergrads living on campus in dorms that foster camaraderie, though some housing options are older and may lack modern amenities. The Mississippi weather brings hot, humid summers and mild winters, which can be a shock if you’re not used to the heat. Off-campus, Jackson’s cultural offerings like live music and Southern cuisine are draws, but the city’s slower pace and limited entertainment options might leave some craving more urban excitement.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
Southwestern Athletic Conf.
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
62%
4 Years Graduation Rate
22%
6 Years Graduation Rate
31%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$39,060
62% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at Jackson State University and return in the fall. 22% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 31% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
22%
4-5 years
9%
6-8 years
2%
Non-grad
67%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$8,270
Acceptance
93%
Undergrads
4,650
4-Year Grad Rate
22%
Endowment
$54M
Jackson, MS 39217
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