Overview
Founded in 1877 as a school to educate freed slaves, Jackson State University has grown into one of the nation's premier historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), achieving R2 research university status. Located in Mississippi's capital city, JSU is renowned for its programs in engineering, public health, and social work, and has become a major producer of Black professionals in STEM fields, education, and public administration. The university's research enterprise has expanded significantly, with strengths in environmental science, computational science, and urban studies.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Jackson, Mississippi |
| Founded | 1877 |
| Total students | 6,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 70% |
| Graduation rate | 42% |
| Average starting salary | $45,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $9,200 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $11,500 |
| Room & board | $9,800 |
| Average financial aid | $12,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 90% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 890-1050 |
| ACT range | 16-20 |
| Average GPA | 3.10 |
| Regular deadline | August 1 |
Top Programs
- Engineering
- Public Health
- Social Work
- Business Administration
- Criminal Justice
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.