The University of Southern Mississippi, located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, is a prominent institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement. Established in 1910, the university has developed a rich tradition of fostering a diverse and inclusive environment that encourages innovation and collaboration among its students and faculty. The university's motto, "To Be, Not to Seem," reflects its dedication to authenticity and the pursuit of knowledge, urging students to engage deeply with their studies and the world around them.

Southern Miss offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, with particular strengths in fields such as education, business, and the arts. The university is recognized for its comprehensive research initiatives, especially in areas like marine science and psychology. Southern Miss also boasts impressive campus facilities, including state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and recreational centers that support both academic and extracurricular activities. With a vibrant campus culture, students can participate in numerous clubs, organizations, and athletic events, fostering a strong sense of community and school spirit. The university’s commitment to student success is evident in its robust career services and alumni network, which help graduates transition into the workforce effectively. Overall, the University of Southern Mississippi stands out as a nurturing environment that cultivates both personal and professional growth among its students.

Analysis of Key Educational Metrics at the University of Southern Mississippi

The University of Southern Mississippi has exhibited notable trends in several key educational metrics over recent years, particularly in tuition costs, graduation rates, and student retention.

Firstly, tuition costs for in-state undergraduate students have steadily increased from $6,744 in 2014 to $9,618 in 2024. This represents a significant burden on students and their families, highlighting a broader issue in higher education where rising costs can deter enrollment and increase student debt. For out-of-state students, tuition has also risen sharply, from $15,024 to $11,618 over the same period, reflecting the university's strategy to attract and retain students from outside the state while grappling with the financial realities of higher education.

In terms of student success, the graduation rate has shown a positive trend, particularly the on-time graduation rate, which increased from approximately 22.4% in 2014 to an impressive 30.6% in 2023. This suggests that the university is enhancing its support systems for students, thereby increasing the likelihood of timely graduation. Higher graduation rates are crucial as they can improve the institution's reputation and attract prospective students.

However, the retention rate has fluctuated somewhat, peaking at about 75.2% in 2013 and then declining to around 69.6% in 2023. This decline may indicate challenges in student satisfaction or support services, suggesting that while graduation rates are improving, retaining students remains a challenge.

Lastly, the student-to-faculty ratio has slightly worsened, moving from 18:1 in 2013 to 15:1 in 2023, which may reflect a decline in faculty resources relative to the student population. A lower ratio can enhance the educational experience, but if not managed carefully, it could lead to overburdened faculty and limited individual attention for students.

In summary, while the University of Southern Mississippi has made strides in graduation rates, the rising costs of tuition and fluctuating retention rates present ongoing challenges that the institution must address to ensure long-term sustainability and student success.

Trends in Degree Completion at the University of Southern Mississippi

The data from the University of Southern Mississippi for 2023 reveals interesting trends in degree completion across various fields. Notably, the highest number of bachelor's degrees awarded was in Elementary Education and Teaching, with 212 graduates, reflecting a sustained demand for educators. This aligns with national trends where teaching professionals are crucial, particularly in light of ongoing discussions about educational reform and teacher shortages.

In the health sector, Registered Nursing also demonstrated significant completion rates with 168 graduates. This is particularly relevant given the heightened focus on healthcare workforce needs in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has underscored the importance of nursing professionals in the healthcare system.

Conversely, several areas such as Library and Information Science and Business Administration showed a remarkable trend in advanced degrees, with 125 master’s degrees awarded in the former and 91 in the latter. This indicates a growing interest in specialized knowledge and skills, likely driven by the evolving job market that increasingly values advanced qualifications.

Interestingly, international students contributed to these numbers, albeit in small quantities. For example, there was one international graduate in both Elementary Education and Registered Nursing, emphasizing the university's role in attracting global talent, particularly in essential fields.

Overall, the data suggests a healthy diversification in degree offerings and completion rates, reflecting both professional demand and the university's strategic focus on relevant academic programs. As job markets evolve, these graduation trends will be critical in shaping future workforce landscapes.

Analysis of Admission Trends at the University of Southern Mississippi

The admission statistics for the University of Southern Mississippi reveal a notable trend in both acceptance rates and enrollment numbers over the years. The data shows a gradual decline in the university's ranking, dropping from 230th in 2019 to 352nd in 2024. This decline in ranking may influence prospective students' perceptions of the school's quality and desirability. Interestingly, the acceptance rates for both male and female applicants have remained relatively high. For instance, in 2023, the acceptance rates were approximately 98.2% for males and 99.2% for females, indicating a very lenient admissions process. This may be reflective of the institution's efforts to attract a larger student body, potentially compensating for its declining ranking by increasing accessibility. Enrollment figures also illustrate fluctuations, with a peak of 1,903 students in 2018 and slightly lower numbers in subsequent years. The consistent high acceptance rates paired with substantial enrollment suggests that while the institution may be experiencing a lower ranking, it is successfully attracting a considerable number of students, likely due to its regional reputation and affordability. However, the increasing number of applicants denied admission, particularly in recent years, raises questions about the university's capacity and strategic direction. It is imperative for the University of Southern Mississippi to address these trends proactively, ensuring they maintain academic standards while also appealing to a diverse applicant pool. Balancing accessibility with quality will be crucial in reversing the negative trends in ranking and perception.

Analysis of University of Southern Mississippi Admission Test Scores

The admission data from the University of Southern Mississippi over the years provides an interesting insight into the evolving academic landscape. Notably, the number of applicants submitting standardized test scores, such as the SAT and ACT, has fluctuated with a relatively low percentage of applicants opting to submit these scores, indicating a potential shift in the college admissions landscape towards a more holistic review process.

From 2007 to 2023, the SAT reading and math scores for the 25th percentile have shown a gradual decline in the starting scores, while the 75th percentile scores have remained relatively stable, particularly in recent years. This suggests that while the overall academic performance of admitted students may not have drastically changed, the lower end of the score distribution has experienced a slight downturn. The consistent percentage of applicants submitting test scores, hovering around 4% to 7%, could reflect a growing trend of test-optional policies across many institutions, which may be aimed at increasing diversity and accessibility in higher education.

Moreover, the ACT scores have also shown slight variations, yet they have not deviated significantly from previous years. The steady trend in the test submissions could indicate that students are increasingly recognizing the importance of a broader set of qualifications beyond standardized test scores, including extracurricular activities and personal essays.

In summary, the data from the University of Southern Mississippi highlights a critical evolution in the admissions process that aligns with national trends towards a more inclusive approach in evaluating student applications. The emphasis on holistic admissions practices may ultimately benefit a wider range of students and promote a diverse student body.

Analysis of Student Demographics at the University of Southern Mississippi in 2023

The student population at the University of Southern Mississippi in 2023 presents an interesting demographic landscape. A total of 1624 new undergraduate students enrolled, with a notable female majority of 66.4%. Comparatively, the returning undergraduate students, numbering 7183, also displayed a significant female representation at 64.2%. The trend of higher female enrollment is consistent across all classifications, including transfer students and graduate students.

The graduate student body, comprising 3268 individuals, maintains a similar gender distribution with 66% female students. This trend of female predominance in higher education is reflected nationwide, where women have increasingly outnumbered men in college enrollments. Such gender dynamics may influence campus culture, academic offerings, and support services, potentially leading to a more inclusive environment.

In terms of racial diversity, while specific data for the overall student body is not provided, the breakdown for new undergraduates indicates that white students represent a significant portion, with 843 identified as white. The presence of various ethnic groups is crucial for fostering a multicultural academic environment, which is increasingly recognized as vital to the educational experience.

Overall, the University of Southern Mississippi's demographic data for 2023 reflects broader national trends in gender representation in higher education and highlights the importance of diversity among the student body. The institution's ongoing efforts to support diverse populations will be essential in cultivating an inclusive and dynamic academic community.

Analysis of Student Age Composition at the University of Southern Mississippi

The age distribution of students at the University of Southern Mississippi reveals interesting patterns in both undergraduate and graduate demographics. The largest group of students falls within the 18-19 age range, comprising approximately 36.5% of the total student population. This is indicative of a traditional college demographic, where students typically transition directly from high school to university.

In the 20-21 age bracket, we observe a significant number of students, with undergraduates making up about 24.5% of the total. This suggests that a considerable portion of the student body consists of students who are likely in their second year of college, continuing their educational journey.

Interestingly, as we analyze older age groups, we notice a gradual decrease in enrollment. The 22-24 age group accounts for about 19.2% of the total, while students aged 25-29 represent around 12.7%. This trend aligns with national statistics that show older students increasingly returning to education, albeit in smaller numbers compared to their younger peers.

The enrollment rates for students aged 30 and above—combined, they make up roughly 11.9%—reflect a growing trend of non-traditional students seeking further education to enhance their career prospects or pursue new fields. This shift is notable, particularly given the current economic climate, where upskilling and lifelong learning have become essential for career advancement.

Overall, the data highlights a vibrant and diverse student body at the University, with increasing opportunities for both traditional and non-traditional learners. As the landscape of higher education continues to evolve, understanding these demographics will be crucial for shaping effective educational policies and support services.

Trends in International Student Enrollment at the University of Southern Mississippi

The data on international student enrollment at the University of Southern Mississippi over the years reveals some significant trends that reflect broader patterns in higher education. From 2004 to 2023, the number of undergraduate students has generally decreased, dropping from 12,371 to 10,258. Correspondingly, the number of international undergraduate students has seen fluctuations, with a notable peak of 244 students in 2017, representing 2.07% of the total undergraduate population that year. This peak contrasts sharply with the lower percentages observed in the earlier years, indicating a growing acceptance and integration of international students during that period.

However, the recent years have shown a decline in both the total undergraduate population and the number of international students, with the percentage of international students remaining relatively stable at around 1.4% to 1.85%. This stability suggests that while the total number of students is declining, the share of international students is not decreasing as drastically, which could indicate a commitment by the university to maintain diverse enrollment even amid overall declines.

On the graduate level, there is a more encouraging trend, with the number of international graduate students increasing from 193 in 2004 to 296 in 2023, resulting in a percentage increase from 7.20% to 9.06%. This rise in graduate enrollment may align with the increasing global competition for higher education and the demand for advanced degrees, especially in an ever-globalizing job market.

Overall, the data from the University of Southern Mississippi highlights the complexities of international student enrollment, influenced by various factors including global mobility trends, institutional policies, and economic conditions. As universities navigate these challenges, maintaining a diverse student body will be crucial for enriching the educational experience and fostering global perspectives.

Here are some notable universities surrounding the University of Southern Mississippi:

1. Tulane University of Louisiana: Ranked 63rd in the 2025 US News rankings, Tulane is a private research university located in New Orleans, known for its strong emphasis on public service and social justice.

2. Loyola University New Orleans: This university, ranked 244th, is a Jesuit institution that offers a liberal arts education with a commitment to social justice and community engagement.

3. Louisiana State University and Agricultural & Mechanical College: With a rank of 179, LSU is a flagship public research university known for its diverse academic programs and vibrant campus life.

4. Mississippi State University: Ranked 214th, this public research university is known for its engineering and agricultural programs, offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degrees.

5. The University of Alabama: This university is ranked 171st and is recognized for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus culture, particularly in business and engineering.

6. University of Mississippi: Also known as Ole Miss, this university is ranked 171st and offers a diverse range of programs with a focus on research and community service.

7. Rhodes College: A highly regarded liberal arts college ranked 59th, Rhodes is known for its rigorous academic programs and beautiful campus in Memphis, Tennessee.

These institutions provide a variety of educational opportunities and contribute to the rich academic landscape surrounding the University of Southern Mississippi.

Crime Trends at the University of Southern Mississippi

The data from the University of Southern Mississippi reveals notable fluctuations in crime rates over the past decade. The average number of crimes per 1,000 students peaked in 2016 at 5.61, a significant rise compared to previous years. This spike may have drawn attention to campus safety measures, prompting the university to enhance security protocols.

In subsequent years, crime rates showed a decline, with a notable drop to 2.35 in 2020, which coincided with the COVID-19 pandemic that led to reduced campus activity. However, the numbers began to rise again in 2022 and 2023, indicating a potential resurgence of issues that might require further investigation and intervention.

Specific categories of crime highlight areas of concern, particularly with respect to gun-related arrests. The university reported incidents related to domestic violence and drug-related arrests, emphasizing the need for comprehensive support systems for students. As the world becomes increasingly aware of campus safety, initiatives aimed at reducing violence and substance abuse will become crucial.

In conclusion, while the university has made strides in maintaining safety, the recent uptick in crime rates suggests that ongoing efforts are essential. Engaging the campus community in discussions about safety, along with reinforcing preventive measures, will be vital in fostering a secure environment for all students. To learn more about crime rate calculations, you can visit this link: https://www.forwardpathway.com/33447.