Mississippi Valley State University

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Mississippi Valley State University

  • Overview & Academics

    Mississippi Valley State University (MVSU), located in Itta Bena, Mississippi, is a public, historically Black university (HBCU) offering undergraduate and graduate degrees. The university is part of the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL) and is known for programs in education, business, sciences, and the arts. MVSU provides a student-centered learning environment and emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and social responsibility.

    • Colleges and Departments: College of Arts & Sciences, College of Professional Studies (including business, education, and social sciences), and a School of Graduate Studies
    • Degree Offerings: Bachelor’s and master’s degrees
    • Popular Majors: Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Education, Biology, Social Work, Mass Communications, Computer Science
    • Student-Faculty Ratio: Approximately 15:1
    • Special Initiatives: Research opportunities, study abroad programs, honors programs
  • Admissions

    • Application Process: Online application via the MVSU website, submission of transcripts, ACT/SAT scores (optional for some applicants), and other supporting materials.
    • Requirements: High school diploma or equivalent; minimum 2.0 GPA recommended.
    • Rolling Admissions: Applications are evaluated on a rolling basis, with recommended deadlines for financial aid and scholarship consideration.
    • Open to in-state, out-of-state, and international students.
  • Cost

    • Tuition (2023-24 approximate):
      • In-State: $7,334 per year
      • Out-of-State: $7,334 per year (MVSU provides in-state rates to all U.S. undergraduate students)
    • Room and Board: Around $8,000 – $10,000 per year
    • Additional Fees: Book and supply costs, student activity fees
    • Financial Aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs available
  • Student Population

    • Total Enrollment: Approximately 2,000 – 2,500 students
    • Undergraduate Students: Majority of the student body
    • Diversity: As an HBCU, MVSU serves a predominantly African American student population, but also welcomes students of all backgrounds.
    • Male/Female Ratio: Roughly balanced, with slight female majority
  • Rankings & Distinctions

    • Recognized as one of the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).
    • Noted for its teacher preparation programs and contributions to higher education for first-generation and minority students.
    • Alumni distinction in multiple fields including public service, music, education, and athletics.
  • Campus & Culture

    • Setting: Rural, 450-acre campus in the heart of the Mississippi Delta region
    • Main facilities: Modern classrooms, library, residence halls, student union, performing arts center
    • Sights: Well-manicured green spaces, athletic fields, monuments honoring MVSU’s history
    • Emphasis on community, tradition, and service
  • Athletics & Traditions

    • Nickname: Delta Devils (men), Devilettes (women)
    • Affiliation: NCAA Division I, Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC)
    • Popular Sports: Football, basketball, baseball, softball, track and field, soccer, volleyball
    • Traditions: Homecoming, Greek life step shows, Founder’s Week, spirited athletic events
    • Notable: Alumni include NFL Hall of Famer Jerry Rice
  • Mission

    Mississippi Valley State University’s mission is to provide comprehensive undergraduate and graduate programs in liberal arts, professional fields, and sciences. The university is committed to creating an environment that fosters intellectual development, leadership, service, and social responsibility, especially for underserved communities of the Mississippi Delta and beyond.

  • Leadership & Current Developments

    • Current President: Dr. Jerryl Briggs (as of 2024)
    • Focus on campus infrastructure improvements, expanded academic offerings, student retention, and enhanced technology use.
    • Strengthens community partnerships and promotes research and innovation especially addressing regional needs.
  • Programs

    • Bachelor’s Degrees: Over 30 fields, including Education, Business Administration, Biology, Computer Science, Mass Communications, Social Work
    • Master’s Degrees: Education, Criminal Justice, Bioinformatics, and other areas
    • Certificates and Endorsements: Teacher certification, leadership credentials, specialized short-term programs
    • Online Programs: Select undergraduate and graduate classes and degrees available online
  • Campus Life

    • Residential Life: Several campus housing options from traditional dorms to apartment-style living
    • Dining: Meal plans available, campus dining hall, cafes
    • Support Services: Academic advising, counseling, tutoring, health services, career development center
    • Cultural Events: Annual arts festivals, music concerts, lecture series, community service days
  • Student Organizations

    • Greek Life: National fraternities and sororities (Divine Nine and others)
    • Clubs: Student Government Association (SGA), Academic honor societies, cultural/regional clubs, environmental and social justice orgs
    • Recreation: Intramural sports, performance groups (bands, choirs, dance), special interest groups
    • Leadership: Leadership development workshops, student ambassador programs, volunteer and outreach initiatives
  • Admission Stats

    • Acceptance Rate: Approximately 80%-90%
    • Freshman Retention Rate: Around 60%-70%
    • Typical ACT Score Range: 15-20 (test-optional policy may apply)
    • Average High School GPA: About 2.75 – 3.3