Mississippi provides a solid foundation for engineering students through its accessible public universities, growing STEM initiatives, and hands-on learning opportunities. With emerging strengths in aerospace, manufacturing, and environmental engineering, the state’s engineering schools emphasize practical experience and regional relevance in their programs.
Engineering students in Mississippi benefit from affordable tuition, smaller class sizes, and a focus on applied learning. The state is home to growing industries in aerospace, energy, and transportation, offering students both educational and career-building opportunities.
Here’s why Mississippi stands out for engineering education:
Mississippi offers strong engineering programs through both public universities and private institutions. Below are several of the top options in the state. For a full list, be sure to check the ABET-accredited programs section at the end of this profile.
The School of Engineering at the University of Mississippi offers a diverse array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs designed to prepare students for technical careers with a foundation in leadership, teamwork, and communication. Students can pursue degrees in:
Nine of the undergraduate engineering programs are accredited by ABET. The school emphasizes real-world experience through co-op and internship opportunities, undergraduate research, and involvement in professional societies. Students also benefit from a strong network of engaged alumni and a culture of faculty support and departmental camaraderie.
The University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) is a public research university located in Oxford, Mississippi. Known for its welcoming campus and vibrant college town atmosphere, it provides a balanced experience of academic rigor and community support.
Mississippi State University's Bagley College of Engineering offers a comprehensive suite of undergraduate and graduate degree programs spanning eight academic departments. Students can pursue ABET-accredited undergraduate degrees in fields including aerospace, biomedical, civil, chemical, computer, electrical, industrial, mechanical, petroleum, and software engineering, as well as computer science and cybersecurity. Several programs offer concentrations tailored to specific industry needs, such as biomolecular engineering and chemical engineering practice.
At the graduate level, Bagley provides both master's and doctoral programs in engineering disciplines, with opportunities for interdisciplinary studies. Areas of emphasis include computational engineering, cybersecurity, data science, and military engineering. Students benefit from access to notable research facilities like the Center for Advanced Vehicular Systems (CAVS) and the Raspet Flight Research Laboratory, and are encouraged to engage in applied and basic research alongside faculty.
Mississippi State University is a public land-grant research university located in Starkville, Mississippi. It is recognized for its commitment to practical research, outreach, and service, supporting students in becoming skilled professionals ready to contribute in industry, government, and academia.
The School of Polymer Science and Engineering at the University of Southern Mississippi is dedicated to education and research in polymer materials—a class of molecules fundamental to countless modern applications. The school offers both undergraduate and graduate programs in polymer science and engineering, with the B.S. program accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET under criteria for materials and similarly named engineering programs.
The School of Polymer Science and Engineering is one of several science and engineering-focused units at Southern Miss. The university also houses the School of Computing Sciences and Computer Engineering and the School of Ocean Science and Engineering, expanding its STEM offerings and interdisciplinary opportunities.
The University of Southern Mississippi is a public research institution located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Known for its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement, the university supports a diverse student population across its Hattiesburg and Gulf Park campuses.
Engineering students in Mississippi have access to a variety of financial aid opportunities, including state-funded scholarships, institutional awards, and need-based grants. These resources help reduce the cost of education and support students pursuing careers in high-demand technical fields.
Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) early to maximize eligibility for both federal and state aid programs.
Engineering students planning to pursue professional licensure in Mississippi must meet the standards established by the state’s licensure board. Additionally, local and national engineering societies offer valuable support for academic growth, career development, and networking.
These organizations are valuable assets for students transitioning from school to the professional world and for licensed engineers looking to remain active in their field.
Civil, electrical, mechanical, and petroleum engineering are especially relevant in Mississippi, given the state’s emphasis on infrastructure, energy, and manufacturing sectors. There’s also growing interest in aerospace and polymer engineering.
Yes. Students in Mississippi have access to flexible online bachelor's degree in engineering and online engineering master's degree programs. These options are ideal for working adults or students in rural areas.
Absolutely. Schools like Mississippi State and Ole Miss offer robust co-op and internship programs, with connections to state agencies, research labs, and local industries.
Students can access academic advising, tutoring, career services, and mentorship. Many institutions also host student chapters of professional organizations such as ASCE, IEEE, and SWE.
Enrolling in an ABET-accredited engineering degree program ensures that your education meets nationally recognized standards essential for professional licensure and career advancement. Mississippi’s universities offer a range of these accredited programs, especially in fields tied to the state’s economic strengths.
The table below will list engineering programs in Mississippi that have received ABET accreditation, including each school, its location, and the specific disciplines offered.
| Jackson State University | Jackson | - Computer Science
- Civil Engineering - Computer Engineering - Electrical Engineering |
| Mississippi College | Clinton | - Electrical Engineering |
| Mississippi State University | Mississippi State | - Computer Science
- Aerospace Engineering - Biosystems Engineering - Chemical Engineering - Civil Engineering - Computer Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Industrial Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Software Engineering - Biomedical Engineering - Petroleum Engineering |
| Mississippi Valley State University | Itta Bena | - Computer Science |
| University of Mississippi | University | - Computer Science
- Chemical Engineering - Civil Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Geological Engineering - Mechanical Engineering - Biomedical Engineering - Computer Engineering - Engineering |
| University of Southern Mississippi | Hattiesburg | - Construction Engineering Technology
- Industrial Engineering Technology - Computer Science - Information Technology - Polymer Science and Engineering - Computer Engineering - Ocean Engineering - Architectural Engineering Technology |
Note: The list of ABET-accredited engineering programs in Mississippi was compiled in 2025. Because program offerings and accreditation statuses can change, readers are encouraged to visit the ABET official website and the individual university websites linked above for the most current information. You can also refer to the Mississippi Board of Licensure for Professional Engineers and Surveyors and other resources throughout this profile for academic and licensure guidance.
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