University of South Carolina-Columbia vs Mississippi State University Introduction
In this article, we compare two well-known universities in the United States, the University of South Carolina-Columbia (USC) and Mississippi State University (MSU). By examining various aspects of each institution, including costs and tuition, admissions, academics, diversity, and outcomes, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview for prospective students looking to make an informed decision about their higher education journey.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Overview
The University of South Carolina-Columbia (USC) is a public research university established in 1801. It is located in the heart of downtown Columbia, South Carolina. With over 200 degree programs offered across its 14 colleges and schools, USC caters to a diverse range of students and interests.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Costs & Tuition
In-state students at USC can expect to pay around $12,688 per year for tuition and fees, while out-of-state students will be looking at approximately $33,928 per year. Keep in mind that these figures do not include other expenses such as room and board, books, and personal expenses, which can add up to an additional $15,000-$20,000 per year.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Admissions
Admission to USC is moderately competitive, with an acceptance rate of around 63%. For those applying, average SAT scores range from 1190 to 1350, and average ACT scores fall between 25 and 30. Prospective students must also submit a personal statement and letters of recommendation.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Degrees Offered
USC offers a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees across its 14 colleges and schools. Some popular majors include business, engineering, health professions, and social sciences. The university also offers numerous online degree programs for students who require more flexibility.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Academics
With a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, USC provides students with the opportunity to engage and collaborate with their professors. The average class size is 27 students, allowing for personalized attention and support. USC also boasts a 77% retention rate for first-year students, reflecting its commitment to student success.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Diversity
USC is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive campus environment. With students from all 50 states and over 100 countries, the university offers numerous programs and resources to support the diverse needs of its student body. It also has various clubs, organizations, and events that celebrate and promote diversity and inclusion.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Students
USC is home to over 35,000 students, with approximately 27,000 of them being undergraduate students. The university offers a vibrant campus life, with over 400 student organizations and a strong focus on community engagement and service-learning opportunities. Students can also participate in a wide variety of intramural and club sports, as well as an active Greek life scene.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Campus
The USC campus covers 359 acres in downtown Columbia, offering a lively urban environment with plenty of amenities and entertainment options nearby. The campus itself features modern facilities, green spaces, and historic buildings, providing a mix of tradition and innovation for students to enjoy.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Alumni
USC has a strong alumni network, with over 290,000 living alumni worldwide. Graduates can access a variety of resources and benefits, including career services, networking events, and continuing education opportunities. Notable USC alumni include astronaut Charles Bolden, musician Hootie & the Blowfish, and former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Rankings
USC is consistently ranked as a top-tier institution. According to U.S. News & World Report, it ranks #118 in National Universities and #55 in Top Public Schools. Additionally, some of its individual programs, such as international business and public health, have received high national rankings as well.
University of South Carolina-Columbia Outcomes
The graduation rate at USC is 77%, and the average starting salary for graduates is around $42,000 per year. The university’s strong focus on research, innovation, and community engagement prepares students for success in their chosen fields, as well as for further academic pursuits.
Mississippi State University Overview
Mississippi State University (MSU) is a public research university established in 1878 in Starkville, Mississippi. It offers over 175 degree programs through its 12 colleges and schools, attracting a diverse student body from across the United States and around the world.
Mississippi State University Costs & Tuition
Tuition and fees for in-state students at MSU total about $8,910 per year, while out-of-state students can expect to pay around $23,950 per year. As with USC, these figures do not account for additional expenses such as housing, meals, and books, which can add another $15,000-$20,000 per year.
Mississippi State University Admissions
MSU has an acceptance rate of approximately 62%, making admission moderately competitive. Average SAT scores for admitted students range from 1080 to 1280, while average ACT scores fall between 21 and 28. In addition to test scores, applicants must submit a personal statement and letters of recommendation.
Mississippi State University Degrees Offered
With over 175 degree programs available, MSU offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate options. Some popular majors include engineering, business, agriculture, and education. The university also provides online degree programs for students who need more flexibility in their schedules.
Mississippi State University Academics
MSU boasts a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1, ensuring that students have access to their professors and receive personalized attention. The average class size at the university is 29 students. MSU’s first-year retention rate is 81%, reflecting its commitment to student success and academic excellence.
Mississippi State University Diversity
MSU is dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion on campus. Students hail from all 50 states and over 80 countries, providing a vibrant and diverse learning environment. The university offers numerous programs, resources, and events to support and celebrate the unique backgrounds of its students.
Mississippi State University Students
With over 22,000 students enrolled, MSU fosters a lively campus environment with a strong sense of community. Students can join any of the more than 300 student organizations, participate in intramural and club sports, and engage in service-learning opportunities. Greek life is also a significant aspect of campus culture.
Mississippi State University Campus
MSU’s campus spans 4,200 acres, providing a picturesque setting with a mix of modern facilities and historic buildings. The university is known for its beautiful landscapes, including the sprawling Drill Field and the Junction, which serves as a popular tailgating spot during football season.
Mississippi State University Alumni
MSU’s alumni network consists of more than 142,000 living graduates worldwide. Alumni have access to resources such as career services, networking events, and continuing education opportunities. Notable MSU alumni include author John Grisham, NFL quarterback Dak Prescott, and former U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Mike Espy.
Mississippi State University Rankings
According to U.S. News & World Report, MSU ranks #103 in National Universities and #46 in Top Public Schools. Additionally, some individual programs, such as aerospace engineering and veterinary medicine, have received high national rankings.
Mississippi State University Outcomes
The graduation rate at MSU is 61%, with an average starting salary for graduates of around $40,000 per year. The university’s emphasis on research, innovation, and community engagement prepares students for success in their chosen fields and further academic study.
University of South Carolina-Columbia vs Mississippi State University Cost Comparison
Both universities offer competitive tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students. In-state students at USC can expect to pay around $12,688 per year, while at MSU, they will pay approximately $8,910 per year. Out-of-state students will pay about $33,928 per year at USC and around $23,950 per year at MSU. These figures do not include additional expenses such as housing, meals, and books, which can add another $15,000-$20,000 per year at each institution.
University of South Carolina-Columbia vs Mississippi State University Admissions Difficulty
Admissions at both universities are moderately competitive. USC has an acceptance rate of around 63%, while MSU’s acceptance rate is approximately 62%. Average test scores for admitted students at USC are slightly higher than those at MSU, with SAT scores ranging from 1190 to 1350 and ACT scores between 25 and 30 for USC, compared to SAT scores of 1080 to 1280 and ACT scores of 21 to 28 for MSU.
University of South Carolina-Columbia vs Mississippi State University Academic Difficulty
Both USC and MSU are committed to academic excellence and student success. USC has a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1 and an average class size of 27 students, while MSU has a student-to-faculty ratio of 20:1 and an average class size of 29 students. The first-year retention rates at both universities are high, with USC at 77% and MSU at 81%.
University of South Carolina-Columbia vs Mississippi State University Outcome Comparison
While both universities have strong outcomes, the graduation rate at USC is higher, at 77% compared to MSU’s 61%. Additionally, the average starting salary for USC graduates is around $42,000 per year, slightly higher than the $40,000 per year for MSU graduates. Both institutions have strong alumni networks and offer resources and support to help graduates succeed in their chosen fields.
