Mississippi State University (MSU) has achieved another remarkable enrollment milestone, solidifying its status as Mississippi’s only public university to consistently grow for ten out of the past eleven years. The total student population now stands at an impressive 23,563, a significant increase of over 400 students from the previous year’s 23,150. This surge is largely attributed to a robust 12.6% rise in first-time college students.
MSU remains the top choice for Mississippi high school graduates. The incoming class of first-time college students alone totals 4,049, with returning undergraduates and professional students also playing a crucial role in the university’s overall expansion. Reflecting on this success, MSU President Mark E. Keenum stated, “Every day, we’re dedicated to developing new programs and enhancing existing ones to ensure Mississippi State truly shapes futures for our students.”
Widespread Growth Across Academic Programs
This enrollment boom is not confined to one area; it’s evident across all major colleges. The Bagley College of Engineering continues to lead as the largest college with 5,099 students. Notably, the colleges of Veterinary Medicine, Agriculture and Life Sciences, and Architecture, Art and Design have all achieved their highest student numbers ever.
Here’s a snapshot of some key college enrollments for 2025:
- Engineering: 5,099 students (Largest college)
- Arts and Sciences: 4,946 students (Second-largest enrollment)
- Education: 3,488 students (Record enrollment)
- Agriculture and Life Sciences: 2,697 students (Record enrollment)
- Architecture, Art and Design: 1,070 students (First time exceeding 1,000 students)
- Veterinary Medicine: 588 students (Record enrollment)
MSU’s commitment to student success is also reflected in its investment in innovative programs. These include AI-assisted recruitment strategies, improved career center engagement, and expanded First-Year Experience initiatives designed to support students from day one.
A Diverse Community and High-Achieving Newcomers
The university proudly boasts an increasingly diverse student body, with minority students now comprising 29.2% of the total, marking a 1.4% increase from the previous year. The veteran student population has also seen significant growth, rising by 10.7% to 1,257 individuals. Furthermore, online learning is thriving, with distance education learners expanding by 11.5% to 5,061, highlighting MSU’s growing digital footprint. Students from an impressive 95 countries contribute to the university’s vibrant international community.
The incoming class of first-time college students includes an array of high achievers:
- 48 National Merit Scholars
- 65 Valedictorians
- 53 Salutatorians
- 47 Student Body Presidents
- 77 STAR Students
- 84 Eagle Scouts
- 5 Girl Scout Gold Award Recipients
MSU’s record-breaking enrollment is further supported by significant ongoing infrastructure developments across the campus. These include the new Crossroads District and Hotel Madelon, the Jim and Thomas Duff Center, Azalea Hall residence, and the renovation of Perry Food Hall. Simultaneously, MSU is making strategic investments in cutting-edge high-tech and healthcare programs, such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, nursing, and physician assistant studies.
President Keenum reiterated MSU’s unwavering dedication, stating, “MSU remains committed to providing exceptional academic and professional opportunities for all students, all while effectively addressing the workforce needs of our state.”