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University of South Alabama vs University of Southern Mississippi (USM)

When it comes to choosing the right university, it's essential to compare institutions to find the best fit. The University of South Alabama (USA) and the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) are two prominent universities in the Gulf Coast region, each offering unique strengths and opportunities. While both universities share similarities, there are key differences in acceptance rates, popular majors, student body demographics, and graduation rates. This side-by-side comparison will delve into these distinctions, providing valuable insights to help prospective students make informed decisions about their academic journey. Explore the comprehensive table below to discover which university aligns best with your aspirations and goals.
University of South Alabama logo

University of South Alabama

 		University of Southern Mississippi logo

University of Southern Mississippi

Overview

Location Mobile, Alabama Hattiesburg, Mississippi
Campus setting City: Midsize City: Small
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 71.0% 70.0%
Common app member No Yes
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 70.8% 95.8%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $35
Graduate: $35
Undergraduate: $40
Graduate: $60
SAT range 985 - 1215 N/A
ACT range 19 - 26 19 - 26
Students submitting SAT score 7.0%
Students submitting ACT score 86.0% 99.0%
Total number of applicants 11,817 9,314
Total number of admissions given out 8,364 8,922
Admitted students who chose to enroll 1,778 1,587
Yield rate 21.3% 17.8%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $23,838
Out of state: $32,094
In state: $25,100
Out of state: $27,100
Average net price $14,984 $13,651
Tuition
In state: $8,256
Out of state: $16,512
In state: $9,094
Out of state: $11,094
Room & board
Room/dormitory: $4,260
Meal plan: $3,890
$10,950
Available payment plans
  • Prepaid tuition plan
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

 92.0%
Average amount $7,774 		91.0%
Average amount $9,072
Students receiving federal student loan 49.0%
Average amount $10,354 		54.0%
Average amount $5,327
Students taking out private loans 4.0%
Average amount $12,311 		4.0%
Average amount $12,298

Students and Campus
Undergraduate students 8,833
Men 38.7% Women 61.3% 		10,693
Men 35.3% Women 64.7%
Graduate students 5,159
Men 20.2% Women 79.8% 		3,453
Men 33.7% Women 66.3%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Low
Low
Out-of-state students 24.3% 25.7%
International students 1.5% 2.8%
Campus local/setting City: Midsize City: Small
Dormitory capacity 3,331 3,592
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from Alabama Mississippi Florida Illinois Louisiana Mississippi Louisiana Alabama Florida Tennessee

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Business
  • Engineering
  • Computer and Information Science
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Business
  • Psychology
  • Kinesiology & Leisure Studies
Students to faculty ratio 17:1 16:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 47.4% 51.8%
Dropout rate 19.5% 46.0%
Transferred out 29.5% N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Graduate/Professional Certificates)
  • Year 1: $116,286
  • Year 2: $109,763
  • Year 3: $117,239
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $110,918
  • Year 2: $115,711
  • Year 3: $112,240
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $101,131
  • Year 2: $102,706
  • Year 3: $111,122
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $93,584
  • Year 2: $96,954
  • Year 3: $102,546
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $60,839
  • Year 3: $80,009
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $72,655
  • Year 2: $72,214
  • Year 3: $79,002
Mechanical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $61,253
  • Year 2: $66,240
  • Year 3: $76,272
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $69,913
  • Year 2: $68,219
  • Year 3: $75,983
Chemical Engineering (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $70,168
  • Year 2: $61,516
  • Year 3: $74,579
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $56,562
  • Year 2: $71,015
  • Year 3: $72,349
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: $157,573
  • Year 2: $156,846
  • Year 3: $164,002
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $95,073
  • Year 3: $99,130
Education, General (Doctoral Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $67,660
  • Year 3: $71,295
Public Health (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $61,516
  • Year 3: $67,024
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $55,957
  • Year 2: $56,254
  • Year 3: $57,464
Architectural Engineering Technologies/Technicians (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $53,555
  • Year 2: $52,107
  • Year 3: $56,239
Business Administration, Management and Operations (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $52,332
  • Year 2: $53,358
  • Year 3: $52,453
Finance and Financial Management Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $39,129
  • Year 2: $38,829
  • Year 3: $50,674
Accounting and Related Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $51,726
  • Year 2: $48,432
  • Year 3: $49,610
Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $46,917
  • Year 2: $45,696
  • Year 3: $48,921

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the main differences between the University of South Alabama (USA) and the University of Southern Mississippi (USM)?

    The University of South Alabama (USA) and the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) are both excellent public universities in the Gulf Coast region, but they have distinct characteristics. USA, located in Mobile, Alabama, is known for its strong healthcare programs and growing research initiatives, particularly in marine science and engineering. USM, situated in Hattiesburg, Mississippi, boasts a renowned performing arts program, especially in music, and a strong focus on polymer science and engineering. USA tends to have a slightly larger student body, while USM has a more traditional campus feel. Consider your academic interests and preferred campus environment when deciding.

  • Which university, USA or USM, is better known for its medical programs?

    The University of South Alabama (USA) is generally recognized for its strong medical programs. USA's College of Medicine and USA Health system provide extensive clinical experience and research opportunities for students. While USM offers health-related programs, USA has a more established and comprehensive medical presence.

  • Which university, USA or USM, is better known for its performing arts programs?

    The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is widely recognized for its exceptional performing arts programs, particularly in music. USM's School of Music is highly regarded and attracts talented students from across the country. While USA offers performing arts programs, USM has a stronger national reputation in this area.

  • How do the tuition costs compare between the University of South Alabama and the University of Southern Mississippi?

    Tuition costs can vary depending on residency and specific program. Generally, both universities offer competitive tuition rates for in-state students. Out-of-state tuition is higher at both institutions. It's best to check the official websites of USA and USM for the most up-to-date tuition and fee schedules, as well as information on scholarships and financial aid opportunities.

  • What is the campus environment like at USA versus USM?

    The University of South Alabama (USA) has a more modern, suburban campus located in Mobile, Alabama. It's a growing university with a focus on research and innovation. The University of Southern Mississippi (USM) offers a more traditional, residential campus experience in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. USM has a strong sense of community and a rich history. Consider which type of environment best suits your learning and social preferences.

  • Which university has a stronger focus on research?

    Both the University of South Alabama (USA) and the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) are research universities, but their areas of emphasis differ. USA is making significant strides in marine science, engineering, and healthcare research. USM is well-known for its research in polymer science and engineering, as well as coastal sciences. Your specific research interests should guide your decision.

  • What are the admission requirements for USA and USM?

    Admission requirements for both the University of South Alabama (USA) and the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) typically include a high school diploma or equivalent, standardized test scores (ACT or SAT), and a minimum GPA. Specific requirements may vary depending on the program of study. Check the admissions websites of both universities for the most current and detailed information.

  • What student life and extracurricular activities are available at USA and USM?

    Both the University of South Alabama (USA) and the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) offer a wide range of student life and extracurricular activities, including student organizations, clubs, sports, and cultural events. USA benefits from its location in Mobile, offering access to Gulf Coast beaches and a vibrant city life. USM has a strong sense of campus community and traditions. Explore the student life websites of both universities to see which activities align with your interests.

  • How do the career services compare between USA and USM?

    Both the University of South Alabama (USA) and the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) provide career services to assist students with internships, job searches, resume writing, and interview skills. USA's location in Mobile offers opportunities in healthcare, engineering, and maritime industries. USM's location in Hattiesburg provides access to opportunities in various sectors, including polymer science and the arts. Research the career services websites of both universities to learn more about their specific offerings and employer connections.

  • Which university is located closer to major cities?

    The University of South Alabama (USA) is located in Mobile, Alabama, which is a larger city than Hattiesburg, Mississippi, where the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) is located. Mobile offers more immediate access to urban amenities, cultural attractions, and a larger airport. However, Hattiesburg is within driving distance of New Orleans and other regional cities.

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