Explore alternatives based on outcomes, location, cost, and admission difficulty
Given University of Southern Mississippi's 99.4% acceptance rate, admission is accessible for nearly all qualified applicants, making it a reliable option rather than a reach school.
Strong options in the same region with comparable academic profiles.
For students wanting to remain in Mississippi, consider Jackson State University (91% acceptance, $39,060 median earnings) located 84 miles away with similar open access mission. Belhaven University (53% acceptance, $46,440 earnings) offers a smaller private option also 84 miles from Hattiesburg. Students interested in the broader Southeast might consider Spring Hill College in Alabama (59% acceptance, $51,500 earnings) located 83 miles away with higher earnings outcomes but increased selectivity.
Schools with comparable admission profiles — useful for building a balanced list.
Other open access institutions include Southeastern Louisiana University (94% acceptance, $46,482 earnings) located 88 miles away with slightly higher outcomes. Brigham Young University-Idaho (97% acceptance, $53,406 earnings) offers similar accessibility with stronger earnings but requires significant relocation. These institutions serve similar student populations with comparable admission accessibility while offering different geographic and cultural contexts.
Stronger graduate earnings at comparable price points.
Elite universities with similar prestige and academic caliber