Mississippi University for Women

Columbus, MS

publicgraduate

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Quick Facts

1,593

Total Students

$8K

Tuition (In-State)

$8K

Tuition (Out-State)

$13K

Avg Net Price

100%

Acceptance Rate

38%

Graduation Rate

6-year

72%

Retention Rate

Master's Colleges & Universities

Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Mississippi University for Women

First public women's college in the U.S., now empowering all students.

Mississippi University for Women (MUW) stands as a beacon of educational innovation, proudly holding the distinction of being the first public women's college in the United States. Established in 1884, it was initially founded to provide a dual education of liberal arts and vocational training for white women. Co-founded through the efforts of three visionary Mississippi women—Sallie Eola Reneau, Annie Coleman Peyton, and Olivia Valentine Hastings—MUW's legacy is deeply rooted in expanding access to higher education and opportunity.

Over its storied history, MUW has demonstrated remarkable adaptability and a commitment to inclusivity. The institution transitioned from the "Industrial Institute and College" to "Mississippi State College for Women" to reflect a collegiate focus, and later to "Mississippi University for Women" as its academic programs, including graduate studies, expanded. A pivotal moment in 1966 saw "The Fabulous Six"—three black undergraduates and three graduate students—break racial barriers, and a landmark 1982 U.S. Supreme Court decision led to the admission of qualified men into all programs. This evolution showcases MUW's dedication to serving a diverse student body while maintaining an emphasis on distinctive opportunities for women.

Today, MUW offers a vibrant and supportive learning environment, guided by its inspiring motto: "We study for light to bless with light." Prospective students and families will find an institution deeply committed to fostering an inclusive and empowered community where dedicated faculty serve as "beacons of enlightenment," collaborating one-on-one with students. This personalized approach ensures a rich academic experience, preparing all graduates to contribute positively and meaningfully to the world.

Key Highlights

✦Established in 1884 as the first public women's college in the United States.
✦Co-founded by three pioneering Mississippi women: Sallie Eola Reneau, Annie Coleman Peyton, and Olivia Valentine Hastings.
✦Broke racial barriers in 1966 with the admission of "The Fabulous Six" black students.
✦Became fully co-educational in 1982 following a U.S. Supreme Court ruling, while retaining its emphasis on distinctive opportunities for women.
✦Offers expanded academic programs, including graduate studies, reflecting its university designation since 1974.
✦Led by its first alumna president, Nora Roberts Miller, who was inaugurated in 2019.
✦Embraces the motto "We study for light to bless with light," fostering a supportive, inclusive, and empowered community.

Timeline

1884

Created by act of the Mississippi Legislature, initially named "Mississippi Industrial Institute and College for the Education of White Girls".

1885

The institution's first session began on October 22, with an enrollment of approximately 250 students.

1920

Name changed to "Mississippi State College for Women" to reflect an emphasis on collegiate education.

1966

Three local women became the first black undergraduates, and three teachers became the first graduate students, known collectively as "The Fabulous Six".

1974

Name changed to "Mississippi University for Women" to reflect expanded academic programs, including graduate studies.

1982

U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Mississippi University for Women v. Hogan, leading to the admission of qualified men into all university programs.

2019

Nora Roberts Miller was inaugurated as the first alumna president of Mississippi University for Women.

2024

Proposals to change the university's name were announced but subsequently halted after community feedback.

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