Mississippi College
Clinton, MS
Quick Facts
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Mississippi College
Pioneering coeducation in the U.S., Mississippi College offers a rich history and faith-based education.
Mississippi College stands as a vibrant institution with a groundbreaking legacy, famously becoming the first coeducational college in the United States to award degrees to women in 1831. With a deep affiliation to the Mississippi Baptist Convention since 1850, the college offers a distinctive educational experience rooted in faith, while fostering a diverse and engaging campus community. Prospective students can anticipate an environment that blends rigorous academics with a commitment to values, preparing them for impactful careers and lives.
Throughout its extensive history, Mississippi College has demonstrated continuous growth and adaptation. From its humble beginnings as Hampstead Academy in 1826, it evolved into a comprehensive college offering degrees in arts, sciences, and languages. Its resilience was evident through wartime efforts, including participation in the V-12 Navy College Training Program during World War II, and significant post-war expansion. The college strategically integrated other institutions like Hillman College and Clarke College, expanding its academic footprint and establishing dedicated schools for Nursing, Business, Law, and Education, reflecting a broad commitment to professional development.
In the 21st century, Mississippi College has continued its trajectory of innovation and growth. Enrollment surged significantly between 2002 and 2015, welcoming a record number of freshmen and a remarkably diverse international student body. The institution has expanded its academic offerings, notably launching Mississippi's first Physician Assistant program in 2011 and introducing doctoral programs in educational leadership and professional counseling. Looking ahead, the college is set to embrace a new identity, transforming into Mississippi Christian University for its bicentennial in 2026, signaling its enduring commitment to Christian higher education.
Key Highlights
- ✦First coeducational college in the U.S. to award degrees to women in 1831.
- ✦Affiliated with the Mississippi Baptist Convention since 1850.
- ✦Enrollment grew from 3,227 to 5,152 students between 2002 and 2015.
- ✦Launched Mississippi's first Physician Assistant program in 2011.
- ✦Hosted 505 international students from over two dozen nations in Fall 2015.
- ✦Participated in the V-12 Navy College Training Program during World War II.
- ✦Will be renamed Mississippi Christian University for its bicentennial in 2026.
Timeline
Schools & Colleges
4 notable schools within Mississippi College
Mississippi College School of Law
Established in 1975 after the college purchased the former Jackson School of Law.
School of Nursing
Began operations in 1969.
School of Business
Established in 1975 from the college's division of business.
School of Education
Established in 1977 from the college's division of education.
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