Mississippi State University (MSU) has achieved another historic enrollment milestone, proudly standing as the state’s sole public university to experience growth in 10 of the past 11 years. The total student population has now reached an impressive 23,563, an increase of over 400 students from 23,150 in 2024. This notable expansion is largely fueled by a significant 12.6% rise in first-time college students.
MSU continues to be the preferred choice for high school graduates across Mississippi. The current intake of first-time college students stands at 4,049, with returning undergraduates and professional students also contributing substantially to the overall growth. MSU President Mark E. Keenum emphasized the university’s dedication, stating, “Every day, we’re placing strong efforts in developing new programs and revising existing ones to ensure Mississippi State is a university that creates futures for students.”
Record Growth Across Colleges and Programs
This enrollment surge is evident across all major colleges within the university. The Bagley College of Engineering maintains its position as the largest, with 5,099 students. Simultaneously, the colleges of Veterinary Medicine, Agriculture and Life Sciences, and Architecture, Art and Design have all celebrated their highest enrollments in history.
| College | 2025 Enrollment | Notes |
| Engineering | 5,099 | Largest college at MSU |
| Arts and Sciences | 4,946 | Second-largest enrollment |
| Business | 3,529 | Stable growth |
| Education | 3,488 | Record enrollment |
| Agriculture and Life Sciences | 2,697 | Record enrollment |
| Architecture, Art and Design | 1,070 | First time over 1,000 |
| Forest Resources | 637 | Growth from previous year |
| Veterinary Medicine | 588 | Record enrollment |
| Professional & Continuing Studies | 316 | Focus on adult learners |
| Integrative Studies | 96 | Steady numbers |
| Other | 1,097 | Includes interdisciplinary programs |
MSU’s commitment to student success is also reflected in its investments in various programs. These include artificial intelligence-assisted recruitment, enhanced career center engagement, and expanded First-Year Experience initiatives.
Diverse Student Population and First-Time Achievers
The university’s student body is becoming increasingly diverse, with minority students now comprising 29.2% of the total, a 1.4% increase from the previous year. The number of veterans enrolled has also grown by 10.7%, reaching 1,257 students. Furthermore, distance education learners have seen an 11.5% increase, totaling 5,061, highlighting the university’s expanding online presence. International students at MSU represent an impressive 95 countries.
| First-Time in College Achievers | Number |
| National Merit Scholars | 48 |
| Valedictorians | 65 |
| Salutatorians | 53 |
| Student Body Presidents | 47 |
| STAR Students | 77 |
| Eagle Scouts | 84 |
| Girl Scout Gold Award Recipients | 5 |
This record-breaking enrollment at MSU is supported by ongoing infrastructure development, featuring projects like the Crossroads District and Hotel Madelon, the Jim and Thomas Duff Center, the Azalea Hall residence, and the Perry Food Hall renovation. The university also continues to strategically invest in high-tech and healthcare programs, including those in cyber, AI, nursing, and physician assistant studies.
President Keenum reaffirmed MSU’s mission, stating, “MSU remains committed to providing academic and professional opportunities for all students while meeting statewide workforce needs.”