Overview
Mississippi Valley State University was founded in 1950 as Mississippi Vocational College to provide higher education opportunities to Black residents of the Mississippi Delta during segregation. It became Mississippi Valley State University in 1974 and has since grown into a comprehensive institution offering undergraduate and graduate programs. The university is part of Mississippi's public higher education system and is known for its role in expanding access to education in one of the most historically underserved regions of the United States.
At a Glance
| Type | Public |
| Location | Itta Bena, Mississippi |
| Founded | 1950 |
| Total students | 2,000 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 15:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 56% |
| Graduation rate | 34% |
| Average starting salary | $36,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $8,400 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $9,800 |
| Room & board | $8,200 |
| Average financial aid | $9,500 |
| Students receiving aid | 92% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 790-950 |
| ACT range | 15-18 |
| Average GPA | 2.90 |
| Regular deadline | August 1 |
Top Programs
- Criminal Justice
- Biology
- Business Administration
- Social Work
- Elementary Education
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.