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Northwest Mississippi Community College
Senatobia, MSPublic
$3,400
Tuition/yr
45%
Grad rate
88.4
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best information systems degree programs: Mississippi State, U of Mississippi, Strayer University-Missis...
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $3,300 to $28,800/year
Northwest Mississippi Com... offers the most affordable option at $3,400/yr
Information Systems degree programs available: 2 associate's, 4 master's in Mississippi
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
1 online information systems degree programs in Mississippi
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Mississippi community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
2 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman
Tech hubs in Jackson and Gulfport
Hakia Research 2026
Information Systems degree programs near 43+ cities across Mississippi
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Mississippi Information Systems programs
We rank 10 accredited information systems programs in Mississippi using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Information Systems Degree Programs in Mississippi Worth It?
Answer
$82,450
Yes. The best information systems degree programs in Mississippi deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $82,450 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $12,103/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Information Systems Degree Rankings in Mississippi
Compare the top-ranked Information Systems programs in Mississippi by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Information Systems Programs in Mississippi
2
Programs ranked
$3,350
Avg tuition/yr
43%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Mississippi offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in information systems, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Northwest Mississippi Com..., Coahoma Community College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Mississippi offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $3,350/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $45,348 in Mississippi.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Mississippi's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among information systems schools in Mississippi, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their information systems degrees in Mississippi.
Best Bachelor's Information Systems Programs in Mississippi
3
Programs ranked
$9,366
Avg tuition/yr
62%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Mississippi ranks among the nation's top destinations for information systems education, with 4 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 3 public and 0 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Mississippi State, U of Mississippi, Strayer University-Missis..., recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Mississippi information systems programs earn a median salary of $70,083, 29% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $8,435 to $13,725 annually, with an average of $10,269/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 81%, with the highest reaching 92%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Mississippi's leading technology employers. For students seeking information systems degrees in Mississippi, these top-ranked information systems schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MSPublic
Mississippi State University Cuts Ribbon on New Residence Hall | Azalea Hall$10,052
Tuition/yr
67%
Grad rate
85.2
Hakia Score
Best Master's Information Systems Programs in Mississippi
3
Programs ranked
$14,926
Avg tuition/yr
63%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Mississippi offers 4 master's degree programs in information systems, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Mississippi, Mississippi State, Belhaven, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Mississippi earn a median salary of $82,450, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $16,991/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Mississippi's information systems schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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Mississippi State University
Mississippi State, MSPublic
Mississippi State University Cuts Ribbon on New Residence Hall | Azalea Hall$10,052
Tuition/yr
67%
Grad rate
83.1
Hakia Score
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$21,000
Tuition/yr
59%
Grad rate
81.0
Hakia Score
Information Systems Degree Costs & Tuition in Mississippi
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $12,103/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $30,258/year |
| Community college tuition | $3,026/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $72,620 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $18,154 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Systems Students in Mississippi
State Aid Programs
Mississippi students pursuing Information Systems degrees have access to multiple funding sources designed to make higher education affordable. The primary federal aid pathway begins with completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at studentaid.gov, which determines eligibility for Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study programs. Additionally, Mississippi offers the Eminent Scholars Grant, a merit-based award specifically designed for high-achieving Mississippi residents that can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs. Prospective students should visit the Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning website to learn about current award amounts and application deadlines for this prestigious scholarship program.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal grants, many Mississippi institutions offering Information Systems programs, including Mississippi State University and Jackson State University, provide institutional scholarships and assistantships. Community college students can leverage the Mississippi Articulation and Transfer Tool to plan affordable pathways, completing general education and foundational IS coursework at two-year institutions before transferring to bachelor's programs. Students should also explore employer sponsorship opportunities, particularly through major Mississippi employers like the University of Mississippi Medical Center and Walmart, many of which offer tuition assistance for employees pursuing IT and information systems credentials. For comprehensive information on federal aid options, borrowing limits, and repayment plans, consult studentaid.gov directly.
Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator, Mississippi
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information systems degree in Mississippi. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a information systems degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$133,333
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Information Systems Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Mississippi metro areas
Jackson$91K
Gulfport$87K
Hattiesburg$82K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Jackson | $91K |
| Gulfport | $87K |
| Hattiesburg | $82K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Information Systems Graduates in Mississippi
Find information systems jobs in Mississippi. These major employers across Mississippi metro areas are actively hiring information systems degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Information Systems Jobs in Jackson
MSC Spire
telecom
Raytheon
defense
FedEx Logistics
logistics
Information Systems Jobs in Gulfport
MSKeesler Air Force Base
military
Huntington Ingalls Industries
defense
Transfer Pathways for Information Systems Degrees in Mississippi
State Transfer System
Mississippi provides structured transfer pathways for students beginning their Information Systems education at community colleges and transitioning to four-year universities. The state's 2 associate degree institutions produced 14 completions in Information Systems during 2023 (IPEDS), with notable programs at Holmes Community College, Northwest Mississippi Community College, and East Mississippi Community College. These institutions offer foundational coursework in computer science, business applications, and systems thinking that align directly with bachelor's degree requirements at the state's 4 bachelor's-level institutions.
How Transfers Work
The Mississippi Articulation and Transfer Tool ensures seamless credit transfer between community colleges and universities by establishing pre-agreed course equivalencies and degree pathways. Students earning an associate degree in Information Systems or related fields (such as computer science or business information systems) can transfer directly into bachelor's programs at Mississippi State University, Jackson State University, University of Southern Mississippi, or Alcorn State University with junior-level standing. This pathway significantly reduces overall education costs, as community college tuition averages $3,200–$3,500, compared to four-year institution averages of $8,642 in-state (College Scorecard). Students should contact their community college advisor to confirm course articulation agreements and explore Database Management in Mississippi and Information Technology in Mississippi for complementary transfer options aligned with career interests.
Why Pursue an Information Systems Degree in Mississippi?
Industry & Workforce
Mississippi offers a strong pathway for students pursuing Information Systems education, with 11 institutions across the state offering programs at the associate, bachelor, and master levels (IPEDS). The state produced 223 total completions in Information Systems during the 2023 academic year, demonstrating sustained demand for skilled professionals in the field. Top-tier institutions like Mississippi State University and Jackson State University lead the way, with Mississippi State producing 61 completions and Jackson State delivering strong master's programs. These universities consistently rank among the best bachelor's programs and best online programs nationally.
Salary Outlook
Mississippi's major employment hubs in Jackson, Gulfport-Biloxi, and Hattiesburg are home to significant employers including the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Walmart, Sanderson Farms, and Nissan, all seeking skilled information systems professionals. The state's average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions is $8,642, making Mississippi an affordable choice compared to national averages (College Scorecard). Students interested in related fields can explore complementary programs such as Information Technology in Mississippi, Data Analytics in Mississippi, and Cloud Computing in Mississippi to build comprehensive technical expertise.
Information Systems Program Availability in Mississippi
8 Programs
Mississippi offers 8 accredited information systems programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Information Systems Job Market & Salary Data in Mississippi
Employment Outlook
Mississippi's information systems job market is supported by a diverse employer base across multiple regions and industries. The state's major metropolitan areas. Jackson, Gulfport-Biloxi, and Hattiesburg, serve as primary hubs for IS professionals seeking employment opportunities. According to the (Bureau of Labor Statistics), Mississippi's technology sector continues to expand, with growing demand for skilled information systems specialists across healthcare, retail, agriculture, and manufacturing sectors. The state's average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions is $8,642, making education in this field accessible to Mississippi residents preparing for these roles.
Salaries by Metro
The state supports 11 institutions offering information systems programs at the associate's, bachelor's, and master's levels (IPEDS Program Data). Mississippi State University and the University of Mississippi lead the state in IS program completions, with 125 and 69 completions respectively across all degree levels. Career pathways in Mississippi benefit from strong institutional support, including the Mississippi Articulation and Transfer Tool, which enables students from the state's 17 two-year institutions to transfer seamlessly to 19 four-year institutions. Students should explore related fields through our guides on Information Technology in Mississippi, Data Analytics in Mississippi, and Database Management in Mississippi to identify complementary career specializations.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Mississippi$53,593$119,553
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Information Systems Programs in Mississippi
Online Programs
1 available in Mississippi
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$10,893/yr$12,103/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Information Systems Programs in Other States
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Louisiana
- Total Programs
- 18
- Median Tuition
- $5,200
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Arkansas
- Total Programs
- 24
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Tennessee
- Total Programs
- 43
- Median Tuition
- $9,300
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Alabama
- Total Programs
- 27
- Median Tuition
- $10,200
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 133
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 98
- Median Tuition
- $8,700
Best Information Systems Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 110
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
Information Systems Degree Programs in Mississippi: FAQ
What are the best information systems degree programs in Mississippi?
The best information systems degree programs in Mississippi based on our methodology are: 1) Mississippi State University (92% graduation rate), 2) University of Mississippi, and 3) Strayer University-Mississippi. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Mississippi offers 8 total accredited programs across 5 public and 2 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 4 bachelor's programs.
How much do information systems degree programs cost in Mississippi?
Information Systems degree program costs in Mississippi vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $12,103/year, while private institutions average $26,627/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $3,026/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $48,412 at public schools to $106,506 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can information systems degree graduates earn in Mississippi?
Information Systems professionals in Mississippi earn a median salary of $82,450, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $53,593, while senior roles exceed $119,553. Salaries vary by metro area: Jackson ($90,695), Gulfport ($86,573) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online information systems degree programs in Mississippi?
Yes, Mississippi offers 1 accredited online Information Systems programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from Mississippi College. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire information systems degree graduates in Mississippi?
Major Information Systems employers in Mississippi include C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, FedEx. The Jackson and Gulfport metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Mississippi universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Mississippi's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an information systems degree program worth it in Mississippi?
An information systems degree program in Mississippi offers strong ROI with a $82,450 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $12,103/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($93,168), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do information systems degree programs take in Mississippi?
Standard completion times for information systems degree programs in Mississippi are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Mississippi community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Mississippi university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for information systems degree students in Mississippi?
Mississippi information systems degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Mississippi state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Mississippi's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Mississippi salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.