University of South Carolina vs Mississippi State University

University of South Carolina vs Mississippi State University

Topic Strength & Global Rankings (2025/2026)

USC and MSU are both public research universities, and USC tends to rank higher in national and international measures. USC ranks higher in visibility of programs such as Business, Public Health, Nursing, and also research productivity, than MSU whose areas of strength are more concentrated in Agriculture, Engineering, and applied sciences.

General Information

USC overall enrollment (undergrad + grad) is greater than MSU's. USC has a broad array of undergraduate and graduate degrees, and enjoys having a state capital and large city (Columbia) base for partnership arrangements, internships, etc. MSU has a stronger agricultural and engineering tradition, solid extension programs and buildings, large campus, and regional community involvement. 

Acceptance Rate & Admissions

USC's acceptance is around 61.5% (latest) instead of 64.1%. SAT and ACT ranges of USC admitted students are approximately SAT ~ 1255, ACT ~ 29 in most sources. MSU's acceptance rate being ~ 75% sounds reasonable. USC is more likely to expect higher academic credentials (GPA, test scores when available, course strength) to be admitted than MSU, which although competitive has relatively easier entry for most students.

Research Impact & Facilities

Both universities are classified as R1 / high research activity. USC is well-positioned in Public Health, Environmental Studies, Health Sciences, and business with strong faculty, facilities, and funding. MSU is particularly strong in Engineering, Agriculture, Biological Sciences, and extension service networks, engineering labs, etc. USC's size and resources overall are larger particularly in urban / health / policy-oriented fields.

Cost & Financial Aid

Tuition & fees at USC are approximately US$12,688/year for in-state students; higher for out-of-state. Average net price (after grants and financial aid) is over US$20,000 for most students. At MSU, expenses are less particularly for in-state students, and a significant percentage of students receive financial aid. The net cost differential between USC and MSU is significant, and MSU tends to be more economical for in-state attendees.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Success

Graduates of USC have median alumni salary of around US$44,890 in recent reporting. MSU early career earnings are a bit lower (~US$51,510 early, though longer-term median sometimes lower depending on the cohort). USC boasts a higher six-year graduation rate (~78% vs ~57% at MSU), indicating stronger degree completion. MSU has high career outcomes within 6 months of graduation (95%) for recent graduates.