2026 Most Popular business Degree Programs Ranking in Hattiesburg

What can I expect from business degree in Hattiesburg?

The average cost of obtaining a business degree in Hattiesburg is generally affordable, especially at public institutions like the University of Southern Mississippi (USM). In-state tuition at USM offers competitive rates compared to national averages, allowing students to pursue quality education without overwhelming financial pressure. Graduates often reflect positively on their investment, noting the balance of reasonable tuition with strong academic resources and extracurricular opportunities.

Many students find that financial aid and scholarships available through Hattiesburg's universities significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses. This financial support makes business degrees accessible to a broader spectrum of learners, encouraging practical engagement through internships and cooperative education.

Business students from Hattiesburg universities frequently highlight the value of small class sizes and personalized faculty attention, which enhance the academic experience and justify the tuition cost. The ability to connect classroom theory with internships in sectors like healthcare and manufacturing adds practical relevance that graduates appreciate long after completion.

Where can I work with business degree in Hattiesburg?

Graduates with a business degree from institutions like the University of Southern Mississippi find themselves well-positioned to enter diverse and thriving sectors within Hattiesburg. Many alumni secure roles in administrative, finance, marketing, and project management fields at the university itself, benefiting from steady growth in education-related employment.

Healthcare is another booming industry for business graduates. For example, the Forrest General Hospital system frequently hires business professionals for human resources, financial analysis, and administrative leadership, enabling recent grads to apply their skills in dynamic, mission-driven organizations with long-term career potential.

Manufacturing companies in the Hattiesburg area also actively seek business degree holders. Graduates often work in supply chain management and operations roles, where they contribute to efficiency improvements and quality control in local factories, gaining valuable hands-on experience.

Retail management and sales represent yet another accessible pathway. With retail sales surpassing $1 billion annually locally, business grads find opportunities to develop leadership and marketing skills in both small businesses and larger chains, boosting their confidence and professional growth.

Additional career paths include positions in finance, accounting, and entrepreneurial ventures, supported by a vibrant downtown startup scene that welcomes strategic business expertise from recent graduates eager to make an impact in Hattiesburg's economic landscape.

How much can I make with business degree in Hattiesburg?

Graduates with a business degree in Hattiesburg can expect competitive earnings supported by both local economic conditions and strong academic programs like those at the University of Southern Mississippi. For example, business analysts in the region earn an average annual salary of approximately $112, 950, reflecting advanced analytical skills highly valued by employers.

Positions such as business development executives also offer substantial earning potential, with an average annual wage around $83, 190. These figures highlight promising opportunities for recent graduates aiming to build a successful career in business-driven sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, and education within Hattiesburg.

Many graduates from local universities report satisfaction with their starting salaries, which often align well with these averages and allow for financial stability given the city's affordable cost of living. This balance enhances the appeal of pursuing a business degree locally, where graduates can launch rewarding careers and steadily advance their earning potential through experience and further education.

How long does it take to complete business degree in Hattiesburg?

Completing a business degree in Hattiesburg typically requires about four years of full-time study for undergraduate programs like the Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA). Students at institutions such as the University of Southern Mississippi often balance core business coursework with general education classes, progressing steadily toward graduation within this timeframe. Many graduates appreciate the structured pace, which allows them to build a solid foundation while engaging with campus life and local business networks.

For part-time students or those managing work alongside academics, completion can extend to five or six years. This flexibility reflects real-life commitments, making education attainable without sacrificing financial or family responsibilities. Graduates often recall the rewarding experience of juggling these challenges and how it strengthened their time management skills.

Graduate business degrees, like the MBA, usually take about two years full-time but can stretch to three or four years through part-time, evening, or online formats offered locally. These options enable working professionals in Hattiesburg to advance their careers without pausing employment, a balance many find both motivating and gratifying.

What's the difference between online and on-campus business degree?

Students pursuing business degrees in Hattiesburg often choose between on-campus programs at institutions like the University of Southern Mississippi and online options that offer greater scheduling flexibility. Graduates from on-campus programs frequently highlight the valuable face-to-face interactions with professors and peers, which foster strong networking connections essential for career advancement. The immersive campus environment encourages collaboration through group projects and internships tied to the local business community, creating a hands-on learning experience many find rewarding.

In contrast, online students appreciate the ability to balance studies with work or family responsibilities by accessing lectures and assignments digitally. This convenience appeals especially to working professionals in Hattiesburg who cannot relocate or commit to a fixed class schedule. While on-campus tuition averages around $8, 500 annually for residents, online programs nationally range from $15, 000 to $25, 000 but often reduce additional costs like housing and transportation, which can ease financial stress for students choosing remote study.

Industry Partnerships and Real-World Experience: Unlocking Career Success

A cornerstone of thriving in today’s competitive business landscape is hands-on experience paired with strong industry partnerships. Business degree programs in Hattiesburg, MS, are increasingly integrating internships, co-operative education, and live project opportunities that connect students directly with regional enterprises and global leaders. These real-world experiences not only enrich classroom learning but also pave the way for invaluable professional networking and mentorship. Students often have access to guest lectures, career workshops, and collaborative projects with local businesses—elements that enhance their understanding of market trends and practical business strategies. By engaging in these experiential learning opportunities, graduates develop key skills such as strategic problem solving, teamwork, and effective communication, which are highly prized by employers. Moreover, many institutions offer advanced learning options; for instance, exploring phd business programs can expand one’s expertise and leadership potential, underscoring the long-term benefits of continued education. This proactive approach to integrating academic rigor with practical experience ensures that students are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern business world—positioning them for both immediate employment and sustained career growth.

What is the average cost of business degree in Hattiesburg?

The average business degree cost in Hattiesburg reflects a balance between affordability and quality education. Median in-state students typically pay around $9, 618 in total, while median out-of-state students face a higher total cost near $22, 326. These figures make pursuing a business degree in Hattiesburg a practical choice for many, especially those attending the University of Southern Mississippi, a leading institution in the area. Graduates often recount positive experiences managing these costs through scholarships and part-time work, emphasizing the accessible nature of the programs.

When considering business degree tuition and fees Hattiesburg students benefit from competitive pricing compared to national averages, which helps reduce financial stress. Alongside the core tuition, expenses such as books, housing, and personal costs play a significant role in total affordability. Many business students find that living near campus, combined with the supportive academic environment, enhances both their learning and financial management experience.

For those exploring advanced credentials, including MBA programs, understanding the full financial commitment is crucial. Prospective students should also explore funding and academic options carefully. For individuals aiming to accelerate their career growth, researching options such as one year master programs can offer a focused and cost-effective path to completion, helping balance educational ambitions with financial realities.

Choosing the Right Business Program in Hattiesburg, MS

When deciding on a business program in Hattiesburg, MS, it's essential to consider factors that align with your career goals and personal preferences. One crucial step is to research the most popular business colleges, which can be found by visiting most popular business colleges, to get an overview of the top-ranked institutions in the area. This research can help you understand the strengths of each program, such as specializations, faculty expertise, and networking opportunities. By evaluating these aspects, you can make an informed decision that sets you up for success in your future business endeavors.

What financial aid is available to business degree students in Hattiesburg?

Business students in Hattiesburg benefit from a diverse range of financial aid options that ease the burden of tuition, typically between $8, 000 and $12, 000 per year for in-state enrollment. Many graduates recall applying for federal aid through the FAFSA, which unlocks access to Pell Grants offering up to $7, 395 annually. These grants often provide crucial support during the first critical years of study.

Additionally, federal student loans including Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans give students flexible repayment plans tuned to their financial situations. State programs like Mississippi's MAEP and the HELP Scholarship also help reduce overall costs, particularly for residents meeting academic standards. Alumni from universities such as the University of Southern Mississippi report that these awards provided meaningful financial relief alongside institutional scholarships.

Local colleges often award merit-based scholarships to students demonstrating leadership and strong GPAs, sometimes covering substantial portions of tuition. Many working students in Hattiesburg find employer tuition assistance valuable, enabling them to advance their careers while studying part-time. Community organizations further enhance opportunities by sponsoring scholarships targeting promising business students connected to the local economy.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in business degree program in Hattiesburg?

Enrollment in business degree programs in Hattiesburg, such as those offered by the University of Southern Mississippi, requires applicants to hold a high school diploma or equivalent like a GED. Many graduates recall the reassurance they felt meeting this foundational criterion, which set the stage for their academic journey.

A minimum GPA between 2. 5 and 3. 0 is commonly expected, ensuring students are academically prepared. Several students reflect positively on how maintaining these grades in high school, particularly in math and English, directly benefited their understanding of core business concepts.

While standardized tests such as the SAT or ACT may still be part of the process, numerous Hattiesburg institutions have embraced test-optional policies. This flexibility has encouraged confident and motivated applicants who demonstrate strong coursework in subjects like algebra and statistics, critical for success in economics and finance classes.

Transfer and graduate applicants face further requirements, including official transcripts and bachelor's degrees for MBA hopefuls, reflecting the city's commitment to high academic standards and professional readiness.

What courses are typically in business degree programs in Hattiesburg?

Business degree programs in Hattiesburg typically include foundational courses that prepare students for diverse careers. Graduates often reflect on their engagement with accounting, where they learned to analyze financial reports and manage budgets-skills applicable in real business settings such as local retail firms. Principles of management courses focus on leadership and organizational behavior, enabling students to confidently navigate team dynamics at popular institutions like the University of Southern Mississippi.

Marketing classes introduce strategies for understanding consumer behavior, a vital aspect for those interested in the regional retail and healthcare markets. Additional core subjects-economics, business law, finance, statistics, and information systems-equip students with practical tools for decision-making and problem-solving. For instance, electives in entrepreneurship or supply chain management often inspire students to launch startups or optimize operations in Hattiesburg's manufacturing sector.

Many students appreciate internships linked to their coursework, gaining firsthand experience in local companies. These opportunities reinforce classroom learning and foster enthusiasm about career prospects throughout the city's evolving economy.

What types of specializations are available in business degree programs in Hattiesburg?

Business degree specializations in Hattiesburg typically include Accounting, Marketing, Management, Finance, and Entrepreneurship, offering students targeted expertise that aligns with both local and national economic trends. Graduates from the University of Southern Mississippi often highlight how hands-on opportunities, such as internships with regional firms, enriched their understanding and prepared them for real-world challenges in areas like financial auditing or digital marketing campaigns.

Students pursuing a Hattiesburg business degree concentration options benefit from programs designed to meet the demands of today's employers. For example, those focusing on Management gain insights into organizational leadership, enabling them to confidently navigate human resources and strategic planning roles. Meanwhile, Entrepreneurship tracks connect aspiring business owners with community resources, fostering innovation in this growing regional market.

Additionally, some institutions provide specialized courses in international business and supply chain management, reflecting global market dynamics and logistical complexities critical for modern enterprises. Many graduates appreciate how such practical curricula bolster their career readiness. Considering affordability and value, prospective students might explore job certifications that pay well as complementary to their degree, enhancing employability in competitive fields.

How do you choose the best business degree in Hattiesburg?

Selecting the best business degree in Hattiesburg requires careful evaluation of program accreditation, cost, and alignment with personal career goals. Graduates from popular institutions like the University of Southern Mississippi often highlight the value of AACSB accreditation, which assures rigorous academic standards and enhances job prospects. Many appreciate the university's competitive tuition rates, exemplifying how affordable business colleges in Hattiesburg can provide quality education without excessive financial burden.

Experiential learning is another key factor. Business students benefit greatly from internships facilitated by the university's strong connections with local industries, gaining practical skills and confidence before entering the workforce. Smaller class sizes and faculty with industry experience contribute to an engaging, personalized learning environment, fostering deep understanding and networking potential.

For those balancing work and study, it is crucial to explore programs offering flexible schedules or online classes. Some students even consider the fastest way to get an associate's degree online to expedite their educational journey while maintaining employment. Thoroughly researching these factors ensures a business degree program in Hattiesburg fits both professional aspirations and lifestyle needs.

What career paths are available for business degree students in Hattiesburg?

Graduates with a business degree in Hattiesburg find diverse career paths tailored to the region's economic landscape. Many enter the financial services sector, leveraging the city's proximity to key economic centers like Jackson, working in banking, insurance, or financial planning. Marketing and sales management roles also appeal to graduates; they thrive in Hattiesburg's expanding retail and service industries, where creative professionals drive brand growth and customer engagement. Business degree career opportunities in Hattiesburg extend to human resources and operations management, fields that emphasize improving organizational performance in local companies ranging from healthcare providers to manufacturing firms.

Entrepreneurship is a vibrant option, supported by Hattiesburg's thriving small business environment. Graduates often start ventures in technology, hospitality, or retail sectors, joining a community where 99. 3% of businesses are small enterprises. Many students from popular institutions in the city find this encouraging, citing affordable tuition and local support as key factors. For those considering online options, exploring what online schools accept fafsa provides additional flexibility for pursuing business education alongside career growth. Job prospects for business graduates in Hattiesburg remain strong, reflecting steady demand across multiple industries.

What is the job market for business degree in Hattiesburg?

The job market for business degree graduates in Hattiesburg is marked by steady opportunities across diverse sectors such as healthcare administration, retail management, and financial services. Graduates from institutions like the University of Southern Mississippi often find roles in management, marketing, and finance, benefiting from strong connections between academia and local employers. Many report positive experiences with internships and cooperative education, which significantly enhance their employability in this competitive environment.

Students pursuing business degrees in Hattiesburg appreciate the balance between affordable education costs and practical career prospects. While salaries may hover around the state median, the relatively low cost of living and the availability of jobs in small to medium-sized enterprises create a supportive pathway for new professionals. Those navigating the Hattiesburg business degree career outlook often cite the value of local networking through chambers of commerce and professional organizations as key assets to securing fulfilling roles.

Prospective students seeking cost-effective options also explore the cheapest online bachelor degrees to supplement their education or gain additional skills, further enhancing their marketability in this stable job market.