10 Best Community Colleges in Mississippi

Key Takeaways

• Mississippi community colleges offer some of the lowest in-state tuition rates in the U.S., typically $3,000–$3,800 per year
• Many have residential campuses and competitive athletics, providing a traditional college experience at a fraction of the cost
• Programs align with Mississippi’s workforce needs in healthcare, manufacturing, energy, and agriculture
• Students benefit from strong university transfer pathways, extensive scholarships, and vibrant campus communities
• These schools serve both urban and rural areas, making higher education more accessible across the state

Why Should You Consider Community Colleges in Mississippi?

Mississippi’s community colleges deserve a serious look if you’re looking for a high-value education with low tuition, strong career programs, and a traditional campus feel. These schools combine affordability with experiences that rival four-year universities, including on-campus housing, competitive sports, and student activities; features you won’t find at most community colleges nationwide.

Tuition for in-state students typically ranges between $3,000 and $3,800 per year, and most colleges offer scholarships, including athletic awards. Through articulation agreements with Mississippi’s public universities, you’ll also find guaranteed transfer pathways if you want to continue on to earn your bachelor’s degree.

But it’s not just about affordability. These colleges are deeply tied to Mississippi’s economy, offering programs in fast-growing fields like healthcare, manufacturing, agriculture, maritime industries, and energy production. Whether you live in a city or a rural area, you’ll find accessible campuses with modern facilities and courses designed to get you job-ready or set you up for university success.

Let’s take a look at the top 10 community colleges in Mississippi offering the best mix of affordability, academics, and student life.

10 Best Community Colleges in Mississippi

Mississippi is home to a standout network of community colleges that blend affordability with surprisingly rich campus experiences. Whether you’re looking for career-ready programs, smooth university transfer options, or a more traditional college setting with dorms and athletics, these schools have you covered. Each college below offers exceptional value for in-state students and serves as a gateway to both local careers and four-year degrees.

Hinds Community College

As Mississippi’s largest community college, Hinds Community College offers an impressive range of academic and technical programs across six campuses, all for just $3,644 per year. Its central location near Jackson makes it a convenient choice for many.

Main Courses

Hinds specializes in aviation, allied health, agriculture, veterinary technology, and career-technical education.

Pros

• Multiple campus locations across the region
• Strong athletic programs
• On-campus housing available
• Convenient proximity to Jackson for internships and jobs
  

Cons

• Large, multi-campus system may feel impersonal
• Some programs may require traveling between campuses

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$3,644 – An affordable rate for one of the state’s most comprehensive college systems.

Southwest Mississippi Community College

Located in Summit, Southwest Mississippi Community College offers a classic residential college experience at a community college price of $4,130 per year.

Main Courses

The college has standout programs in nursing, business, performing arts, and athletics, plus a wide range of transfer options.

Pros

• Residential campus with a traditional college feel
• Competitive athletic teams
• Strong fine arts and music departments
• Vibrant student life and campus activities

Cons

• Rural location limits access to nearby job markets
• Fewer off-campus internship opportunities

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$4,130 – Great value for students wanting both academics and campus life.

East Mississippi Community College

You might know East Mississippi Community College from Netflix’s Last Chance U, but its academic and technical programs are just as impressive, especially at $4,870 per year.

Main Courses

EMCC shines in advanced manufacturing, automotive technology, nursing, and its nationally recognized athletics program.

Pros

• Residential campus options
• Strong connections to regional industries
• Excellent athletic programs
• National exposure and reputation

Cons

• Rural location limits entertainment and transport options
• Fewer amenities outside of campus

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$4,870 – Strong value with national visibility and technical training.

Pearl River Community College

Serving southern Mississippi, Pearl River Community College combines three campus locations with a strong academic reputation and tuition of $5,020 per year.

Main Courses

Programs include healthcare, skilled trades, computer science, and utility lineman technology.

Pros

• Multiple campus locations for greater access
• Updated residence halls and athletic facilities
• Robust scholarship opportunities
• Small campus community feel

Cons

• The main campus in Poplarville requires private transportation
• Fewer big-city resources nearby

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$5,020 – Affordable education with great facilities across southern Mississippi.

Copiah-Lincoln Community College

With campuses in Wesson, Natchez, and Simpson County, Copiah-Lincoln Community College (known as Co-Lin) offers one of the most traditional community college experiences in the region for $5,090 per year.

Main Courses

Top programs include healthcare, business tech, automation, and fine arts.

Pros

• Beautiful historic campus
• Strong honors and academic support programs
• Residential living available
• Competitive sports and arts offerings

Cons

• Rural setting may be far from major employers
• Smaller towns may limit internship options

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$5,090 – A solid investment in a well-rounded, traditional college environment.

Itawamba Community College

Serving northeastern Mississippi, Itawamba Community College combines commuter convenience with a traditional campus feel through its Fulton and Tupelo locations, all for $5,640 per year.

Main Courses

ICC offers strong programs in healthcare, manufacturing technology, automotive technology, and performing arts, with modern, well-equipped facilities.

Pros

• Two distinct campus environments (residential and commuter)
• Strong athletic programs
• Extensive scholarship options
• Modern facilities supporting technical and arts education

Cons

• Student experience may vary significantly by campus
• Resource availability can differ between locations

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$5,640 – A flexible and accessible choice for students in northeastern Mississippi.

Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College

Spanning three counties, Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College serves coastal Mississippi with programs tailored to regional industries and tuition set at $6,630 per year.

Main Courses

MGCCC is known for programs in hospitality and casino management, marine technology, process operations, and healthcare.

Pros

• Strong alignment with Gulf Coast industries
• Multiple campuses and robust online options
• Close ties to local employers for internships and jobs
• Diverse student body and program offerings

Cons

• Slightly higher tuition than most other community colleges in the state
• Transportation may be needed between campuses

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$6,630 – Worth the cost for coastal career programs and industry connections.

East Central Community College

ECCC specializes in healthcare, skilled trades, business technology, athletics, and performing arts.

Located in Decatur, East Central Community College offers a traditional residential campus experience for $6,720 annually, with strong academics and vibrant student life.

Main Courses

Pros

• Small campus community with a close-knit feel
• Strong sports and arts programs
• Affordable on-campus housing
• Updated simulation facilities for healthcare training

Cons

• Rural setting may limit social and employment options
• Fewer large-scale programs compared to bigger colleges

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$6,720 – A good midrange option for students seeking a classic college atmosphere.

Meridian Community College

Situated in the city of Meridian, Meridian Community College blends urban access with high-quality programs for $7,350 per year.

Main Courses

MCC features standout offerings in healthcare, emergency services, digital media, hospitality, and industrial technology.

Pros

• Urban campus with access to local employers and amenities
• Modern healthcare and emergency training facilities
• Strong arts and music programs
• “Tuition Guarantee” program for local students

Cons

• Higher tuition than many rural colleges
• Competitive program admissions may require early planning

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$7,350 – A strong choice for students who want career access in an urban environment.

Northwest Mississippi Community College

With its main campus in Senatobia and centers in Oxford and Southaven, Northwest Mississippi Community College offers a wide reach and residential options for $7,820 per year.

Main Courses

Programs include healthcare, entertainment media production, hospitality management, and workforce training with top-tier technical facilities.

Pros

• Expansive campus network across 11 counties
• Beautiful residential campus in Senatobia
• Competitive athletics and extracurricular activities
• Access to the Memphis job market

Cons

• The highest tuition among Mississippi community colleges
• Larger student population may feel less personal

Average Annual In-State Tuition

$7,820 – A premium experience with strong academic and career connections.

Key Requirements for Enrolling in the Best Community Colleges in Mississippi

Mississippi’s community colleges are designed to be accessible, but you’ll still need to meet a few key requirements before you can enroll. These steps help colleges place you in the right courses and confirm your eligibility for in-state tuition and financial aid.

High School Transcript Submission

You’ll need to provide an official high school transcript or proof of GED completion. Most colleges in Mississippi have open admission policies, and many also offer dual enrollment options if you’re still in high school.

Mississippi Application Completion

Each college has its own application, but many also participate in the statewide application system. Application fees are generally low, between $0 and $25, and are often waived during priority enrollment periods.

Placement Test Scores

Most colleges use ACT scores for placement in math and English courses. If you don’t have ACT scores, you can usually take the ACCUPLACER instead. These scores help ensure you’re placed in the right level of coursework.

Residency Status Verification

Proving that you’ve lived in Mississippi for at least 12 months is essential to qualify for in-state tuition. You’ll typically need to show documentation like a lease, utility bill, or Mississippi driver’s license.

Financial Aid Processing

Be sure to complete the FAFSA to access federal aid and Mississippi-specific programs like the Mississippi Tuition Assistance Grant (MTAG). Many schools also offer their own scholarships, including academic, need-based, and athletic awards.

How Do Mississippi Community College Costs Compare to National Averages?

If you’re looking for an affordable path to higher education, Mississippi stands out. In-state tuition at most of the state’s community colleges ranges from $3,000 to $3,800 annually, significantly below the national average of about $5,000.

That affordability goes even further when you factor in Mississippi’s low cost of living. Many campuses offer on-campus housing for around $4,000–$5,000 per year. Combine that with strong scholarship programs, including MTAG and athletic scholarships, and you’re looking at one of the most budget-friendly college systems in the country.

You’ll still get access to high-quality programs, modern facilities, and built-in transfer pathways to four-year universities, all while avoiding the heavy student debt common in other states.

What Are the Tuition Fees for International Students at Community Colleges in Mississippi?

International students can expect to pay between $6,000 and $9,000 per year in tuition, higher than in-state rates, but still far below what most U.S. universities charge (often $20,000 or more).

While you won’t qualify for state grants like MTAG, many Mississippi community colleges offer scholarships for international students, including academic and athletic options. Some schools also provide on-campus jobs to help you offset costs.

And thanks to Mississippi’s low cost of living, especially in rural areas, your total expenses can be significantly lower than in other states. Just be sure to plan for transportation, since public transit is limited in most college towns.

How Does University of the People Compare With the Best Community Colleges in Mississippi?

While Mississippi’s community colleges are among the most affordable in the country, the University of the People (UoPeople) offers a radically different model: it’s tuition-free. Instead of paying per credit hour or semester, you’ll only pay modest assessment fees, typically $160 per undergraduate course, making it one of the lowest-cost options for higher education globally.

UoPeople also stands out for its flexibility. With entirely online, asynchronous courses, you can study from anywhere and fit classes around your work or personal schedule. Mississippi community colleges, on the other hand, focus more on in-person learning and traditional semester calendars, with limited fully online options.

When it comes to accreditation, Mississippi colleges are regionally accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC), which can be an advantage if you plan to transfer to a Mississippi university. UoPeople is nationally accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and recently earned accreditation from WASC, which may still be accepted by many institutions, but could require additional transfer planning.

Ultimately, if you need full flexibility and minimal costs, UoPeople could be the better fit. But if you want hands-on experience, a residential campus, or transfer pathways to Mississippi universities, the state’s community colleges offer an excellent value.

Ready to Choose the Best Community College?

Choosing the right Mississippi community college means looking beyond just tuition. While all ten schools on this list are affordable, they each offer something different, from campus life and athletic programs to technical specialties and university transfer partnerships.

Think about what matters most for your goals: Do you want to stay close to home or move to a residential campus? Are you planning to transfer to a university or head straight into the workforce? Do you need a strong nursing program, a great athletics department, or access to scholarships?

Mississippi’s community colleges are built to support students from all backgrounds, and with the state’s low cost of living, you can get a quality education without a heavy financial burden. Take the time to explore your options; you’re bound to find a school that fits your path.

FAQs

What Is the Cheapest Community College in Mississippi?

Hinds Community College offers the lowest in-state tuition at $3,644 per year, making it one of the most affordable options in the state.

Do Mississippi Community Colleges Guarantee Transfer to State Universities?

Yes, many Mississippi community colleges have articulation agreements that guarantee transfer to public universities within the state through the Mississippi Articulation and Transfer Tool (MATT).

What Scholarships Are Available for Mississippi Community College Students?

Students can apply for state aid like MTAG, need-based scholarships, academic awards, and athletic scholarships offered directly through individual colleges.

Do Mississippi Community Colleges Offer Online Degree Programs?

Many colleges offer hybrid and fully online programs, but availability varies by school. Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College and Itawamba Community College are among those with strong online offerings.

Can I Earn a Bachelor’s Degree at Mississippi Community Colleges?

No, Mississippi community colleges offer associate degrees and certificates, but you can transfer to a four-year university to complete a bachelor’s degree.

Are Mississippi Community Colleges Open to International Students?

Yes, international students are welcome at most Mississippi community colleges and can access specialized scholarships, on-campus housing, and support services, though they pay out-of-state tuition rates.