Mississippi State University (MSU), located in Starkville, Mississippi, is a prominent public research institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Established in 1878, MSU has evolved into a comprehensive university offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields, including engineering, agriculture, business, and education. With a strong emphasis on research, the university is a leader in areas such as agriculture, veterinary medicine, and engineering, boasting state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories that support innovative studies and hands-on learning experiences. The campus environment fosters a vibrant student life, encouraging involvement in over 400 student organizations, which enriches the educational journey and promotes personal development.

The university's commitment to service and leadership is encapsulated in its motto, "To educate the whole person." This philosophy reflects MSU’s holistic approach to education, emphasizing not only academic achievement but also the importance of character building and civic responsibility. The campus culture is characterized by a strong sense of community, where students are encouraged to participate in various traditions and events that celebrate school spirit. The athletic programs, particularly in football and basketball, draw significant support from the student body and alumni, reinforcing a sense of belonging and pride. Furthermore, MSU is dedicated to ensuring a successful transition for its graduates into the workforce, with numerous career services and connections to industry leaders, making it a prime choice for students seeking a well-rounded education and promising career opportunities.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at Mississippi State University

Mississippi State University has shown notable trends in several key educational metrics over recent years. One of the most significant developments has been the increase in graduation rates. The on-time graduation rate of undergraduate students rose from approximately 28.4% in 2013 to nearly 39.8% in 2023, reflecting a 40% increase in the percentage of students completing their degrees within the expected time frame. This improvement is crucial as higher graduation rates are often associated with better job prospects and overall student satisfaction.

In addition to graduation rates, the retention rate for undergraduate students has also seen fluctuations. From a high of approximately 85.1% in 2021, it declined slightly to about 80.5% in 2023. This variability suggests that while the university is making strides in keeping students enrolled, there are still challenges that need to be addressed to maintain higher retention levels, especially in a competitive educational landscape.

Another critical factor to consider is the rising tuition costs, which have steadily increased for both in-state and out-of-state students. For example, in 2014, the tuition for out-of-state undergraduates was around $16,960, but by 2024, it is projected to be over $26,580. This drastic increase in tuition may have implications for student enrollment and financial accessibility, potentially impacting the diversity of the student body.

Finally, the male-to-female ratio among undergraduates shows a slight trend towards gender balance, with female students comprising just over 50% of the undergraduate population by 2023. This shift indicates progress toward greater inclusivity in higher education, essential for fostering diverse academic environments.

In summary, while Mississippi State University demonstrates promising improvements in graduation rates and gender balance, it faces challenges related to student retention and the rising cost of education that could affect future enrollment and student success. Addressing these issues will be vital for maintaining the university's competitive edge and enhancing the overall educational experience for its students.

Analysis of Graduation Data from Mississippi State University

The graduation data from Mississippi State University for 2023 reveals notable insights into various academic disciplines. One of the most striking observations is the predominance of bachelor's degrees, particularly in the fields of Marketing and Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies. With 181 graduates in Marketing and 226 in Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, these programs are clearly attractive to students, reflecting a broader trend in higher education where interdisciplinary approaches are increasingly valued.

Interestingly, international students are underrepresented in these programs, with only a few enrolled in the bachelor's program for Marketing. This situation might suggest potential barriers for international students, or it may reflect their preferences for other disciplines. The lack of master's and doctoral graduates in these fields indicates that these programs are primarily focusing on undergraduate-level education, which could be a strategic choice to cater to a larger student population.

In contrast, fields such as Secondary Education show a different narrative, with 105 master's graduates, highlighting a critical need for educators in today's job market. The increasing emphasis on education aligns with national trends promoting higher qualifications for teaching professionals, particularly in the wake of educational reforms.

Furthermore, the absence of international graduates in various categories raises questions about the institution's global outreach and marketing strategies. As universities compete for a more diverse student body, it will be essential for Mississippi State University to enhance its appeal to international students, ensuring that its programs reflect global perspectives and provide supportive environments.

Overall, the data underscores the need for universities to adapt to evolving educational demands, ensuring that they offer programs that not only attract domestic students but also appeal to an increasingly international demographic.

Analyzing Mississippi State University's Admission Trends and Rankings

Over the past decade and a half, Mississippi State University has experienced significant fluctuations in its admission rates and enrollment figures. Starting from 2009, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants showed a general upward trend until 2020, with male acceptance rates reaching as high as 81.13% in 2021 and female rates peaking at 79.22% the same year. These high acceptance rates are indicative of the university's more inclusive admission policy, which could be aimed at increasing enrollment numbers. However, the enrollment figures themselves don't necessarily follow a similar upward trajectory. For instance, the highest recorded enrollment was 3624 students in 2017, whereas years with higher acceptance rates, like 2021, saw enrollments of only 3223 students. This discrepancy suggests that despite higher acceptance rates, other factors such as campus facilities, academic offerings, or external economic conditions might be influencing students' final decisions to enroll. Another crucial aspect to note is the significant number of deferred admissions, which saw a sharp increase over the years, reaching an all-time high of 10,791 in 2023. This may reflect broader societal trends, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led many students to delay their studies. The university's ranking provides an additional layer of context. Although it wasn't ranked in the initial years of data, Mississippi State University entered the rankings at 156th in 2015. Since then, its ranking has fluctuated, reaching as low as 211th in 2020 before slightly improving to 194th in 2023. This fluctuation in rankings could be attributed to the changing criteria of ranking bodies, shifts in university performance metrics, or external factors impacting higher education institutions nationwide. Overall, the data reflects a complex interplay of acceptance rates, enrollment figures, and university rankings, painting a picture of a dynamic educational institution navigating various challenges and opportunities in the higher education landscape.

Trends in Standardized Test Scores at Mississippi State University

Over the years, Mississippi State University has shown some interesting trends in the submission and performance of standardized test scores among its admitted students.

From 2007 to 2023, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores fluctuated significantly. In 2007, no students submitted SAT scores, while 100% submitted ACT scores. However, starting from 2009, there was a gradual increase in the number of students submitting SAT scores, reaching a peak in 2015 when 17% submitted SAT scores. Post-2015, the percentage of SAT submissions started to decline, dipping to just 6% in 2020 and slightly increasing to 7% in 2023.

In contrast, the ACT remained a more consistently popular choice among students, with a significant percentage of students submitting ACT scores each year. The data shows that in 2008, 97% of admitted students submitted ACT scores, and this trend remained stable over the years, with the percentage only slightly varying.

Looking at the scores themselves, the SAT reading scores ranged from a minimum of 470 to a maximum of 540 on the lower end, and from 610 to 660 on the higher end. Similarly, SAT math scores followed a comparable trend. For ACT scores, the composite scores ranged from a lower end of 21 to an upper end of 28.

These trends may reflect broader changes in standardized testing policies and preferences among high school students. For instance, the slight decline in SAT submissions post-2015 could be tied to an increasing number of colleges adopting test-optional policies, a trend that accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mississippi State University might also be observing a shift in regional preferences, as the ACT remains more popular in certain parts of the United States, particularly in the Midwest and South.

Overall, the data suggests that while the ACT continues to be the dominant test among Mississippi State University applicants, there has been a noticeable ebb and flow in the popularity and performance on the SAT, likely influenced by broader educational policies and societal trends.

Mississippi State University Student Demographics 2023

In 2023, Mississippi State University displayed a diverse student body across various academic levels. The university enrolled 3,367 new undergraduates, with a slight female majority at 51.9%. This cohort predominantly consisted of white students, accounting for 2,448 individuals. The rest were distributed among African American, Asian, Hispanic, Pacific Islander, and international students.

The continuing undergraduate population was substantial, with 12,958 students nearly split evenly between genders. This group also had a high proportion of white students (9,709), showcasing the university's demographic consistency across undergraduate years. The undergraduate transfer students counted 1,829, again with a balanced gender ratio and a majority white demographic.

Graduate students numbered 4,344, with a more pronounced female majority at 55.8%. This indicates a higher engagement of women in advanced studies at Mississippi State University. Among the graduate students, 2,721 were white, but there was also notable representation from other racial groups, highlighting the diversity at the postgraduate level.

The non-degree seeking students, though a smaller group of 151, had a slight male majority. They too were primarily white, but the gender and racial diversity in this category suggest that the university attracts a wide range of students, even those not pursuing degrees.

Overall, Mississippi State University’s student body in 2023 reflects a balanced gender distribution and a predominantly white demographic, with significant representation from other racial and ethnic groups. This diversity is essential for fostering an inclusive academic environment where different perspectives and experiences can enrich the educational experience. The university's commitment to diversity is evident across all student categories, promoting a comprehensive and inclusive learning community.

The age demographics of Mississippi State University students offer significant insights into the enrollment patterns across different age groups and gender distributions. The largest age group comprises students aged 18-19, with 2,858 undergraduate males and 3,323 undergraduate females, totaling 6,183 students. This age group represents the traditional college entry age and typically the majority of the undergraduate population.

Students aged 20-21 also form a substantial portion of the university population, with 3,657 undergraduate males and 3,907 undergraduate females. This age group includes students who are likely in their sophomore or junior years. Notably, the gender disparity remains consistent with females outnumbering males.

In the 22-24 age group, there's a significant presence of graduate students, with 491 graduate males and 806 graduate females. This reflects the trend of students pursuing advanced degrees after completing their undergraduate studies. Interestingly, the number of graduate females in this age group surpasses that of males, suggesting a strong female presence in graduate programs.

For students aged 25-29, the number of graduate males (538) slightly exceeds the number of graduate females (635), although the total number of students in this age group decreases compared to younger age groups. This age group often includes individuals returning to education after some work experience.

The data shows a gradual decline in student numbers as age increases, with those aged 30-34, 35-39, and 40-49 progressively fewer in number. Notably, the number of graduate females often surpasses that of graduate males in these age brackets, indicating a consistent trend of female graduate students outnumbering their male counterparts.

In the oldest age brackets, 50-64 and over 65, the student numbers are the lowest, reflecting the smaller proportion of older adults pursuing higher education. However, it is interesting to note there are still a few students in these age groups, demonstrating lifelong learning trends.

Overall, the data reveals a consistent trend of higher female enrollment across most age groups, particularly among graduate students. This aligns with broader national trends where women are increasingly pursuing higher education and advanced degrees. The university's age demographics highlight the traditional path of entering college at 18-19, with a notable number continuing to graduate studies in their mid-20s and beyond.

Mississippi State University (MSU) has seen fluctuating trends in the number of international students over the past two decades. The data reveals that the percentage of international undergraduate students has generally remained low, fluctuating between 0.86% and 1.73%. This relatively low percentage indicates that MSU's undergraduate student body is predominantly domestic, with only a modest representation from international students. The peak was observed in 2015 with a 1.73% share, but it has slightly declined since then, dropping to 1.12% in 2023.

On the other hand, the graduate student body at MSU has a more significant proportion of international students, reaching a peak of 18.14% in 2004 and experiencing some fluctuations over the years. Despite a dip in the mid-2010s, the percentage has remained above 12% since 2011, reflecting a steady interest from international students in MSU's graduate programs. In 2023, international students constituted 13.88% of the graduate population, indicating a slight increase from the previous year's 12.82%.

These trends are reflective of broader patterns seen in higher education institutions across the U.S., where graduate programs tend to attract a higher percentage of international students due to specialized research opportunities and advanced degrees. Additionally, geopolitical factors, visa policies, and global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic may have impacted international enrollment figures. Despite these challenges, MSU continues to maintain a diverse academic community, particularly within its graduate programs, showcasing its global appeal and commitment to inclusive education.

Here is a brief introduction to some notable universities around Mississippi State University:

1. Vanderbilt University - Ranked 18th in the 2024 US News rankings, Vanderbilt is a prestigious private research university located in Nashville, Tennessee. It is well-known for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life.

2. Rhodes College - This liberal arts college is ranked 56th in the 2024 US News rankings. Rhodes offers a rigorous academic environment and is situated in Memphis, Tennessee, providing students with rich cultural and historical experiences.

3. Auburn University - With a ranking of 92, Auburn is a public research university located in Auburn, Alabama. It is recognized for its excellent engineering, business, and agriculture programs.

4. The University of Alabama at Birmingham - Ranked 142nd, UAB is known for its strong health sciences programs and research initiatives. It is located in Birmingham, Alabama, and offers a diverse range of academic disciplines.

5. The University of Alabama - This university holds the 170th position in the rankings and is located in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. It is renowned for its athletic programs and vibrant campus culture.

6. Emory University - Emory is ranked 24th in the 2024 US News rankings and is located in Atlanta, Georgia. It is known for its strong liberal arts education and outstanding research opportunities.

These institutions provide a variety of programs and experiences for students in the region, enhancing the educational landscape around Mississippi State University.

The crime statistics at Mississippi State University over the past decade exhibit both fluctuations and trends that reflect broader societal issues. Between 2013 and 2023, the average crime rate per 1000 students ranged from 4.19 in 2021 to a peak of 8.79 in 2015. The most notable decline occurred in 2021, potentially influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to reduced campus occupancy and therefore lower opportunities for crime.

A closer look at the disaggregated data reveals that specific crimes such as possession of firearms, drug-related offenses, and alcohol-related incidents have varied over the years. For example, there were significant fluctuations in the number of arrests for possession of firearms, with a high of 10 incidents in 2013 dropping to none in 2020, reflecting perhaps changes in campus security policies or student behavior.

Other categories of crime, such as sexual assault and domestic violence, remain concerning. Though not the most frequently reported, these crimes have severe implications for campus safety and student well-being. The data underscores the need for continuous efforts in preventive measures, education, and support services to address and mitigate these issues.

Overall, while there has been progress in reducing certain types of incidents, the university must remain vigilant and proactive in its strategies to ensure a safe campus environment. The fluctuations in crime rates highlight the dynamic nature of campus safety and the influence of external factors, such as societal trends and public health crises.

For a detailed explanation of how crime rates are calculated, please refer to the following link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.