Head-to-Head Analysis
This analysis was generated using Azimuth's proprietary framework. Our data model transforms federal education data into actionable insights. Learn about founder Daniel Rogers, explore our research methodology, or see how we think about this data.
Updated January 2026 • Clarksville, TN & University, MS
When students choose between University of Mississippi and Austin Peay State University, they're comparing two public universities with similar access policies but vastly different completion outcomes. Both schools accept over 95% of applicants and serve as regional anchors in the Southeast.
But Ole Miss graduates 68% of its students while Austin Peay graduates just 45%. For families investing in higher education, this completion gap represents the most critical factor in determining long-term value.
Median Student Debt at Graduation
$20,547
federal loans
$20,000
federal loans
Median Parent PLUS Loans
$14,710
borrowed by parents
$29,387
borrowed by parents
Ole Miss is predominantly business-focused, with 29% of graduates earning degrees in business fields. The largest programs include Radio/Television/Digital Communication (367 graduates), Accounting (346), and Nursing (264).
Austin Peay has a more health-focused orientation, with top programs in Sports/Kinesiology (194 graduates), Nursing (148), and Liberal Arts (113). These program concentrations reflect different institutional missions — Ole Miss emphasizing professional preparation, Austin Peay serving a broader mix of career and transfer students.
For students with strong academic preparation and family support, Ole Miss delivers better completion odds and higher earnings at comparable cost. The 68% graduation rate versus 45% represents the single most important factor in this comparison — non-completion makes any debt burden problematic.
Austin Peay offers a more accessible environment serving higher-need students, but completion risk remains concerning. The data points to Ole Miss as the stronger financial value for students likely to graduate, but the right choice depends on individual academic readiness, support systems, and risk tolerance.
If completion seems uncertain, Austin Peay's lower total debt burden offers important protection.
Key Takeaway
The numbers are close, but the best school depends on your goals, values, and career aspirations.
This comparison was generated using Azimuth's proprietary ROI framework, developed by founder Daniel Rogers. Our methodology transforms federal education data into actionable insights for families.
This comparison uses Azimuth's proprietary ROI model based on U.S. Dept. of Education data. View Full Methodology.
This content is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, investment, or professional advice. Consult a qualified advisor before making any financial decisions.
College Azimuth is a private research initiative and is not affiliated with the U.S. Department of Education or Federal Student Aid.
