Millsaps College
U.S. News Liberal Arts 2027
#138
Acceptance rate
43.1%
2025
Peer median 69.4%
Tuition per year
$44,680
$58,890 with room and board
Peer median $33,770
Undergraduates
549
Student-faculty ratio 9:1
Peer median 11 : 1
Graduation rate
54.8%
4-year; 6-year rate 56.7%
Peer median 45.1%
“Peers” are all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S. (by Carnegie Classification).
About
Millsaps College, located in Jackson, Mississippi, is a distinguished liberal arts college known for its commitment to academic excellence and holistic education. Founded in 1890, the college offers a diverse range of undergraduate programs and is particularly recognized for its strong emphasis on the liberal arts and sciences, fostering critical thinking and creativity among its students. The college’s motto, “The mind is a terrible thing to waste,” reflects its dedication to developing well-rounded individuals who are prepared to contribute positively to society. With a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 11:1, Millsaps College ensures personalized attention and mentorship, allowing students to engage closely with their professors and benefit from a collaborative learning environment.
The campus is not only aesthetically pleasing, with its beautiful architecture and green spaces, but also enriched with a vibrant campus culture that emphasizes student involvement and leadership. Various organizations, clubs, and extracurricular activities allow students to explore their interests and develop skills outside the classroom. Millsaps College also boasts strong career services that equip students with the tools necessary for successful careers post-graduation, leading to an impressive track record of graduate employment. Additionally, the college is known for its commitment to service and community engagement, encouraging students to make a difference locally and globally. Overall, Millsaps College is dedicated to fostering a supportive and enriching environment that prepares students for meaningful lives and careers.
Analysis of Tuition, Enrollment, Graduation Rates, and Retention
Over the years, Millsaps College has seen a steady increase in tuition fees for both in-state and out-of-state undergraduate students. From 2014 to 2024, the cost of attendance has risen significantly, with in-state tuition increasing from $32,520 to approximately $43,815. This approximately 34.68% increase in tuition over a decade raises concerns about affordability and accessibility, especially for families grappling with rising education costs in the United States.
In terms of student enrollment, the numbers have shown a downward trend, particularly in undergraduate enrollment, which decreased from 843 students in 2013 to just 627 students in 2023. This decline of approximately 25.69% may indicate challenges that the institution faces in attracting new students, potentially linked to the rising costs of tuition or competition from other institutions. A decline in enrollment can have significant implications for the college's financial health and long-term sustainability.
Graduation rates have exhibited some fluctuations, with the on-time graduation rate peaking at 68.72% in 2019 and standing at 65.96% in 2023. While these figures suggest a relatively stable graduation trend, they also highlight the importance of ongoing support for students to ensure timely completion of their degrees. Similarly, the retention rate has improved, reaching 83.33% in 2023, up from 77.23% in 2013. This increase reflects positively on the institution's ability to maintain student engagement and satisfaction over time.
The interplay between rising tuition, declining enrollment, and improving retention and graduation rates presents a complex picture for Millsaps College. As the institution navigates these challenges, it will be crucial to develop strategies that enhance affordability, improve recruitment efforts, and continue supporting student success to maintain its competitive position in higher education.
This collegeRanked colleges nearby
- Setting
- Midsize city
- Nearest major city
- In Jackson
- Nearest international airport
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), about 160 mi
- Also known as
- Millsaps
- Academic calendar
- Semester
- Religious affiliation
- United Methodist
- President
- Frank Neville (President)
- Phone
- 6019741000
- City
- Jackson, Mississippi
- Address
- 1701 North State Street, Jackson, MS 39210
Rankings & Admission
Peer median 69.4% · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Acceptance rate by gender, 2025
In 2020: men 69.2%, women 68.6%.
Data insights
Analysis of Millsaps College Admission Trends
The admission data for Millsaps College reveals significant fluctuations in acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years, which may reflect broader trends in higher education. For instance, from 2009 to 2014, the admission rates for male students decreased substantially, dropping from approximately 76.3% to 49.8%. This decline indicates a more competitive admissions process, possibly due to an increase in applications or a strategic shift in the college’s enrollment goals.
Interestingly, female admission rates also followed a similar downward trajectory, with a notable peak in 2011 at around 81.1%, followed by a decrease to about 48.8% in 2018. This trend could suggest that the college is attracting a more competitive applicant pool, or it may reflect changing demographic patterns in college-bound students.
Moreover, the data shows that while the total number of enrolled students fluctuated, there were years, such as 2013 and 2014, where the number of denied applications exceeded 1,000. This indicates a highly selective process that could be a response to the increasing national emphasis on the quality of higher education and institutional branding.
The number of deferrals also suggests a complex landscape in student decision-making, where students might be considering multiple options before committing to enrollment. Overall, Millsaps College's admission trends highlight a shift towards increased selectivity, which is consistent with national trends in college admissions across the U.S., reflecting a higher demand for quality education and an increasingly competitive environment for prospective students.
School and Program Rankings
U.S. News school and program rankings · Click a school to see its programs, and a program for its full ranking
Undergraduate Rankings · 2027 edition
Graduate Rankings · 2026 edition
Business School3 programs—
Ranks in blue are top 10 · ▲▼ change from the previous edition · “—” means no overall ranking for that school · Medical schools are ranked in tiers since the 2025 edition
Test Scores
2025 admitted students, 25th–75th percentile · 5% submitted SAT, 66% submitted ACT · SAT/ACT optional: considered if submitted
Data insights
Trends in Admissions Data at Millsaps College
Millsaps College's admissions data from 2007 to 2023 reveals significant trends in standardized test scores and the number of applicants submitting these scores. Over the years, there has been noticeable fluctuation in both SAT and ACT submissions, with a generally declining number of students providing their scores. For instance, the percentage of students submitting SAT scores peaked at 50% in 2007 but has diminished to just 4% by 2022 and 2023. This trend could reflect a broader national shift towards test-optional admissions policies, which many institutions have adopted in response to the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing discussions about the fairness and relevance of standardized testing.
In terms of performance, the range of SAT reading and math scores has shown some variability. The 25th to 75th percentile scores for SAT reading and math have generally trended upwards over the years, indicating that while fewer students are submitting scores, those who do tend to have stronger academic backgrounds. For example, the 2022 scores show a significant increase, with the 25th percentile for reading starting at 610 and extending to 699 at the 75th percentile, suggesting that the college is attracting higher-performing students despite the reduced number of applicants.
The admissions landscape is evolving, and Millsaps College appears to be responding to these changes by focusing on a holistic review process that considers a variety of factors beyond standardized test scores. As the trend towards test-optional policies continues, it will be interesting to see how Millsaps adapts its strategies to maintain a competitive edge in attracting a diverse and academically strong student body.
How Hard Is It to Get In
about 4 in 10
2,340 applicants in 2025, 43.1% admitted
1,009 admitted 1,331 not admitted Yield 17.7%
Degrees & Majors
Graduates in 2025 (first major)
U.S. studentsInternational
Popular graduate programs
- Business Administration and Management, General · Master's16 (0% international)
- Accounting · Master's9 (0% international)
- Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other · Master's7 (71% international)
- Management Science · Master's3 (0% international)
Data insights
Analysis of 2023 Graduation Data from Millsaps College
The graduation data from Millsaps College for 2023 highlights significant trends across various disciplines. Notably, the Business Administration and Management program stands out with 20 graduates at the master's level, indicating a robust interest in advanced business studies, which aligns with the growing demand for skilled professionals in the business sector. In contrast, the program reported no bachelor's graduates, suggesting a possible focus on graduate-level education or a reflection of the competitive nature of undergraduate business programs.
Another interesting observation is the prominence of the Biological Sciences field, which produced 38 bachelor's graduates, showcasing its appeal among students. This trend mirrors the increasing interest in health and biological sciences, a consequence of heightened public awareness of health issues exacerbated by recent global events.
Furthermore, the data reveals a lack of international representation among graduates in most programs. For instance, the master's program in Business Administration had only one international student graduate. This could reflect broader immigration policies or international student trends that have been impacted by the global pandemic and its aftermath, potentially affecting the diversity of the graduate population.
Additionally, the absence of graduates in fields such as Environmental Science and Sociology may raise questions about curriculum attractiveness or student engagement in these areas. With contemporary issues like climate change and social justice gaining momentum, these disciplines could benefit from increased focus and curriculum development to attract more graduates.
Overall, the graduation statistics provide a snapshot of student interests and institutional strengths, revealing opportunities for Millsaps College to adapt and grow in response to evolving academic and job market demands.
All majors, graduates and earnings IPEDS · College Scorecard
*Depends on whether majors have graduates in 2025 or not, Yes / No
**Move mouse on can check deitaled graudates number, click for major detailed information
***Due to privacy policy, graduate salaries are not shown for some majors that has few gradautes
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business Administration and Management, General. | $45,908-$71,105 | ||
| Accounting. | - | ||
| Management Science. | - | ||
| Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology/Biological Sciences, General. | - | ||
| Biochemistry. | - | ||
| Neuroscience. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Economics, General. | - | ||
| Econometrics and Quantitative Economics. | - | ||
| Political Science and Government, General. | - | ||
| Sociology, General. | - | ||
| Sociology and Anthropology. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Psychology, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| History, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mathematics, General. | - | ||
| Applied Mathematics, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication and Media Studies, Other. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Music, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chemistry, General. | - | ||
| Geology/Earth Science, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| English Language and Literature, General. | - | ||
| Creative Writing. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Philosophy and Religious Studies, General. | - | ||
| Philosophy. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Health and Wellness, General. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spanish Language and Literature. | - |
| Major | Graduate Salary | Under | Master |
|---|---|---|---|
| Education, General. | - |
Students
593 students in 2025 · Undergraduate men to women 55:45 · Freshman retention 58.0%
- Continuing undergraduates 345
- First-year undergraduates 179
- Graduate students 44
- Transfers and others 25
Undergraduate race and ethnicity (549)
Data insights
Overview of Student Demographics at Millsaps College in 2023
The student composition data for Millsaps College in 2023 reveals interesting insights into the demographics and gender distribution among different student categories. Among the first-time freshmen, the total count is 192, with a male representation of 63%, indicating a strong male presence in this group. This trend slightly shifts among returning students, where the gender ratio balances more evenly, with males at 51% and females at 49%. This suggests that as students continue their education, the male-female ratio tends to normalize.
The transfer student group shows an equal split between genders, with 50% male and 50% female, reflecting a diverse intake from various educational backgrounds. Graduate students are predominantly male at 61.8%, indicating a potential trend in this level of education favoring male enrollment.
In terms of racial demographics, while detailed breakdowns by ethnicity for returning and graduate students are not available, the first-time freshmen group shows that 106 out of 192 students identify as white. This points to a significant representation of white students among newcomers, although further data would be needed to assess the overall diversity of the student body fully.
The overall picture illustrates a varied demographic landscape at Millsaps College, with fluctuations in gender representation across different student categories and a notable predominance of white students among freshmen. Understanding these dynamics is crucial for fostering an inclusive academic environment and addressing potential disparities in enrollment.
Analysis of Age Composition at Millsaps College in 2023
The age distribution of students at Millsaps College reveals interesting trends and highlights the demographic profile of the institution. The largest segment of the student population, comprising 60% of total male and 57% of total female students, falls within the 18-19 age range. This indicates a strong presence of traditional college-aged students, which is typical for undergraduate programs.
As we move into the 20-21 age category, we see a slight decline in male enrollment, whereas female enrollment remains stable. Notably, the number of graduate males aged 22-24 is significant, suggesting an active pursuit of advanced degrees among slightly older students. However, the total number of graduate students is relatively small, with only 18 graduate males and 7 graduate females in this age bracket.
The data also reveals a sharp decrease in enrollment among older age groups, particularly those aged 25 and above. The lack of students in the 25-29 and 30-34 age categories suggests that Millsaps College may not be a primary choice for non-traditional students who often juggle education with work and family commitments. This trend reflects a broader national pattern where many older adults seek flexible educational options that may not be available in traditional college settings.
Overall, the age composition at Millsaps College indicates a predominantly youthful demographic, which may influence campus culture and academic offerings. As institutions adapt to changing educational needs, understanding this demographic landscape becomes crucial for developing programs that cater to a diverse student body.
International Students
International share over the last 10 years · gray line: median of all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
13 in 2025 · 4.3% in 2016
6 in 2025 · 0.0% in 2016
Data insights
Trends in International Student Enrollment at Millsaps College
The data on international student enrollment at Millsaps College reveals notable trends over the years. From 2004 to 2023, the percentage of international students among undergraduates has generally increased, peaking at 5.01% in 2020, which reflects a growing openness to global perspectives on campus. However, this percentage has fluctuated, particularly noticeable in recent years, where there has been a decline in both total undergraduate enrollment and international representation.
The graduate student statistics show a more erratic pattern, with higher percentages recorded in certain years, such as 7.81% in 2017. Yet, this data is incomplete for several years, limiting comprehensive analysis. The overall graduate enrollment appears to have increased in international diversity, but the absence of data for some years makes it challenging to draw definitive conclusions about trends.
These fluctuations in international student enrollment can be influenced by various factors, including global events, economic conditions, and changes in visa regulations. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, has been profound on international education, leading to a decrease in enrollments across many institutions. The data from Millsaps College reflects this broader trend, as total student numbers have decreased and the percentage of international students has not consistently rebounded post-pandemic.
In conclusion, while Millsaps College has shown some growth in international student enrollment, recent years have presented challenges that require strategic responses to enhance the global student experience and foster a more diverse academic environment.
Cost
2025 cost per year
$58,890
- Undergraduate tuition
- $44,680
- Room and board
- $14,210
- Graduate tuition
- $18,000
Peer median tuition + room and board $46,780 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Tuition rose 26% from 2016 to 2025; room and board rose 14%.
Finances · fiscal year 2024
Revenue$44.7M
Expenses$36.5M
Average faculty salary · 2025 (9-month equivalent)
Dark gray ticks: median pay for the same rank at all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Campus Life
Athletics and varsity athletes NCAA · Southern Athletic Association
Southern Athletic Association: football, basketball, baseball, cross country
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 113 | - |
| Baseball | 57 | - |
| Soccer | 29 | 22 |
| Track and Field and Cross Country (combined) | 17 | 28 |
| Basketball | 19 | 19 |
| Volleyball | - | 19 |
| Softball | - | 18 |
| Tennis | 8 | 8 |
| Swimming | 6 | 9 |
| Golf | 9 | 5 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 97 | - |
| Soccer | 22 | 22 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Track and Field (Outdoor) | 20 | 17 |
| Basketball | 18 | 17 |
| Softball | - | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 18 |
| Golf | 12 | 5 |
| Swimming | 8 | 9 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 7 |
| Tennis | 8 | 6 |
| NCAA Division III with football | MEN | WOMEN |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 111 | - |
| Soccer | 26 | 24 |
| Baseball | 41 | - |
| Basketball | 20 | 19 |
| Track and Field (Indoor) | 16 | 20 |
| Volleyball | - | 22 |
| Swimming | 7 | 12 |
| Tennis | 11 | 7 |
| Cross Country | 8 | 9 |
| Golf | 11 | 5 |
| Softball | - | 16 |
Nearby & Safety
Ranked colleges nearby
-
Mississippi State UniversityMississippi State · 112.3 mi
U.S. News #208
-
Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical CollegeBaton Rouge · 144.4 mi
U.S. News #202
-
University of MississippiUniversity · 145.9 mi
U.S. News #179
-
Tulane University of LouisianaNew Orleans · 164.7 mi
U.S. News #59
-
The University of AlabamaTuscaloosa · 164.9 mi
U.S. News #156
-
University of MemphisMemphis · 193.7 mi
U.S. News #288
-
Rhodes CollegeMemphis · 196.0 mi
Liberal Arts #49
-
Samford UniversityBirmingham · 211.8 mi
U.S. News #191
-
University of Alabama at BirminghamBirmingham · 212.4 mi
U.S. News #137
Data insights
Here are some notable schools surrounding Millsaps College:
-
Mississippi State University - Ranked 216th, this comprehensive university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, and is known for its strong engineering and agricultural programs.
-
University of Mississippi - Also known as Ole Miss, this university is ranked 163rd and is famous for its rich history and vibrant campus life, offering a diverse array of academic disciplines.
-
Tulane University - Located in New Orleans, Tulane is ranked 73rd and is recognized for its rigorous academics and commitment to public service, particularly in the fields of law, business, and public health.
-
Auburn University - Ranked 93rd, Auburn is known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and agriculture, and has a vibrant campus culture with a passionate student body.
-
Vanderbilt University - A prestigious university ranked 18th, Vanderbilt is renowned for its excellent academic programs, particularly in the fields of education, law, and medicine.
-
Rhodes College - This liberal arts college is ranked 56th and is known for its strong emphasis on undergraduate education, vibrant campus life, and beautiful campus.
These institutions are excellent options for students considering higher education in the region.
Peer median 8.9 · all 403 private baccalaureate colleges in the U.S.
Incidents, 2023–2025
From the Clery Act campus safety reports schools file, covering on-campus, non-campus and public property.
Data insights
Analysis of Crime Rates at Millsaps College
The crime data from Millsaps College reflects a notable decline in crime rates over the years, particularly from 2013 to 2022. The average number of crimes per 1,000 students dropped significantly, reaching a low of 9.31 in 2022, which is remarkably lower compared to 50.00 in 2014. This trend suggests that the college has potentially implemented effective safety measures and educational programs aimed at reducing crime on campus.
In examining the specific categories of offenses, the absence of serious incidents such as homicide or sexual assault over the years is particularly noteworthy, indicating a relatively safe environment for students. The data shows a consistent presence of drug and alcohol-related offenses, which aligns with broader national trends in college settings where substance use remains a challenge. The college's response to such incidents could be crucial in maintaining safety and promoting a healthy campus culture.
The significant drop in crime in 2021 and 2022 could also reflect broader societal changes, possibly influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which altered student interactions and campus life. As students and faculty returned to normalcy, the college's strategies in crime prevention will be essential to monitor.
Overall, Millsaps College appears to have fostered a safer environment in recent years, but continued vigilance and proactive measures will be necessary to sustain this positive trend. For further understanding of crime rate calculations, more information can be found at this link: Crime Rate Calculation Method.
Notable Alumni
Notable alumni of Millsaps College include Cassandra Wilson (Jazz singer, songwriter and producer), Tate Reeves (65th governor of Mississippi) and Donald Gray Triplett (First person diagnosed with autism).
-
Cassandra Wilson 1955–2026
Jazz singer, songwriter and producer
-
Tate Reeves 1974–
65th governor of Mississippi
-
Donald Gray Triplett 1933–2023
First person diagnosed with autism
-
Scott Colom 1983–
Mississippi district attorney and 2026 Senate nominee
-
Ellen Gilchrist 1935–2024
Novelist, National Book Award winner
-
Paul Ramsey 1913–1988
Christian ethicist focused on medical ethics
-
William Meyers Colmer 1890–1980
Politician from Mississippi
-
Mary Mills 1940–
LPGA golfer with three major championships
-
Samuel Jones 1935–
Composer and conductor
More alumni (14, by field)
Politics and law
-
Walter Gordon 1920–1997
WWII paratrooper with Easy Company, 101st Airborne
-
Hal Malchow 1951–2024
Political consultant, securities lawyer and author
-
James E. Graves, Jr. 1953–
US circuit judge, Fifth Circuit
-
Edwin R. Holmes 1878–1961
U.S. circuit judge on the Fifth Circuit
-
Neal Brooks Biggers Jr. 1935–2023
Federal district judge, Northern District of Mississippi
-
Bidwell Adam 1894–1982
Lieutenant Governor of Mississippi, lawyer
Science and academia
-
Thomas Naylor 1936–2012
Duke University economics professor and author
-
Otis A. Singletary 1921–2003
Historian and 8th president of University of Kentucky
Arts and media
-
Robert Crowe 2000–
Operatic sopranist and musicologist
-
Kiese Laymon 1974–
Writer and professor at Rice University
-
Ivenue Love-Stanley 1951–
Architect, co-founder of Stanley, Love-Stanley P.C
-
Alan Hunter 1957–
One of MTV's original five video jockeys
Sports
-
William Ewing Hester 1912–1993
Tennis player and official
Other fields
-
Roy Clyde Clark 1920–2014
United Methodist bishop
From Wikidata “educated at” records (including people who attended without graduating), ordered by the number of Wikipedia language editions. Degrees and years follow Wikidata and are left out where it has none.
References and Data Sources
Data from IPEDS (U.S. Department of Education), U.S. News, THE, QS, ARWU and Clery Act campus safety reports. Data insights are written by the Forward Pathway data team from public data.