Top Engineering Schools in Mississippi
Mississippi State University – Bagley College of Engineering
Overview
Mississippi State University’s Bagley College of Engineering is one of the most prestigious engineering schools in the Southeast. It offers a comprehensive set of engineering disciplines, including mechanical, electrical, civil, and aerospace engineering. Mississippi State is recognized for its research contributions, especially in aerospace and agriculture technology. The school maintains strong industry ties, particularly with companies in aerospace and defense, offering students ample opportunities for internships and cooperative education programs.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #99 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: Approximately 4,600+ engineering students.
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Aerospace, Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Chemical, and Environmental Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Average SAT Score: 1130–1350
- Average GRE Score: 159 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- David Abney – Former CEO of UPS.
- John C. Stennis – U.S. Senator and naval advocate.
- James O. McKinsey – Founder of McKinsey & Company, a global management consulting firm.
- Fred Haise – Apollo 13 astronaut.
- Joe Allbaugh – Former Director of FEMA.
Mississippi State is well-known for its hands-on approach to learning and partnerships with NASA and the U.S. Department of Defense, making it a top choice for aspiring aerospace engineers and researchers.
University of Mississippi – School of Engineering
Overview
The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) offers a diverse range of engineering programs through its School of Engineering. Known for its collaborative and interdisciplinary approach, Ole Miss emphasizes both technical education and leadership development. The university is home to one of the nation’s oldest chemical engineering programs and is well-respected for its contributions to geotechnical and environmental engineering research. The school provides students with ample opportunities for internships and undergraduate research, helping them build a strong foundation for future careers.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #178 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: 2,000+ engineering students.
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Civil, Mechanical, Chemical, Electrical, and Geological Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 97%
- Average SAT Score: 1125
- Average GRE Score: 156 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- James Meredith – Civil rights activist and first African-American student admitted to the university (non-engineering, but notable alumnus).
- James Barksdale – Former CEO of Netscape.
- Kay Ivey – Governor of Alabama.
- Thad Cochran – Former U.S. Senator.
- Steve Vassallo – General Partner at Foundation Capital, investor in tech startups.
Ole Miss is highly regarded for its commitment to community service and developing engineers who are not only skilled in their field but also prepared to lead in both public and private sectors.
University of Southern Mississippi – School of Science and Engineering
Overview
The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate engineering programs that emphasize research and innovation, particularly in polymer science, marine science, and renewable energy. USM’s School of Science and Engineering has strong connections with industries across the Southeast, providing students with opportunities to work on real-world projects through internships and research initiatives. The school is also home to the Mississippi Polymer Institute, which conducts cutting-edge research in materials science.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #212 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: Approximately 1,000+ engineering students.
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S. in Civil, Mechanical, Polymer Science, and Computer Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 99%
- Average SAT Score: 1020–1220
- Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.
Notable Alumni
- Jimmy Buffett – Famous singer and songwriter (attended USM, not an engineer).
- Brittney Reese – Olympic gold medalist in long jump.
- Ray Guy – Pro Football Hall of Famer.
- Brian Dozier – Major League Baseball player.
- Clarence Weatherspoon – NBA player.
Southern Mississippi’s engineering programs are particularly noted for their research in materials science and environmental sustainability, making it a leading institution for students interested in polymer engineering.
Jackson State University – College of Science, Engineering, and Technology
Overview
Jackson State University (JSU), a historically Black university (HBCU), offers solid engineering programs in areas such as civil, computer, and electrical engineering. JSU is known for its commitment to fostering diversity in STEM fields and for producing graduates who go on to excel in technical and leadership positions. The College of Science, Engineering, and Technology provides students with research opportunities and hands-on learning through partnerships with government agencies and private industries.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #289 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: Approximately 900+ engineering students.
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S. in Civil, Electrical, and Computer Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 89%
- Average SAT Score: 1142
- Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.
Notable Alumni
- Walter Payton – NFL Hall of Famer (not an engineer, but notable alumnus).
- Rod Paige – Former U.S. Secretary of Education.
- John A. Peoples Jr. – Former president of Jackson State.
- Cassandra Wilson – Grammy-winning jazz musician.
- Harold Jackson – NFL player and coach.
JSU is recognized for its contributions to urban infrastructure and environmental engineering research, especially in the context of serving underrepresented communities in STEM.
Alcorn State University – Department of Advanced Technologies
Overview
Alcorn State University, also a historically Black university (HBCU), offers strong undergraduate programs in advanced technologies and engineering, with a focus on agricultural, mechanical, and electrical engineering technology. The university emphasizes hands-on training and internships, preparing students for practical careers in industry and technology. Alcorn State is committed to serving rural and underrepresented communities, making its engineering program uniquely suited for students interested in applying technology to solve societal challenges.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #1009 for engineering programs in the U.S.
- Number of Students: Approximately 300 engineering students.
- Degrees Offered: B.S. in Engineering Technology (Mechanical, Electrical).
- Acceptance Rate: 30%
- Average SAT Score: 1009
- Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.
Notable Alumni
- Medgar Evers – Civil rights activist (not an engineer but a significant alumnus).
- Steve McNair – NFL quarterback.
- Michael Clarke Duncan – Actor.
- Donald Driver – NFL wide receiver.
- Alex Haley – Author of Roots (attended briefly).
Alcorn State’s focus on engineering technology makes it a good fit for students seeking practical, hands-on careers in industrial and mechanical fields.