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USM Tuition, Fees Remain Level for 2020-21

Fri, 05/29/2020 - 03:48pm

The University of Southern Mississippi’s tuition and fees for students will remain level during the 2020-21 academic year.

“USM remains sensitive to the fact that the coronavirus pandemic has created financial hardships for many students and families, and we are committed to continuing to do everything we can to ensure that the opportunities afforded to those who earn USM degrees remain accessible to as many students as possible,” said President Rodney D. Bennett.

Tuition rates are $8,786 a year for Mississippi residents who are full-time students, and $10,786 for out-of-state and international students. In October, the University also expanded freshman scholarship offerings.

USM remains a great value and investment, particularly among the nation’s most affordable Carnegie R1 institutions, a designation awarded to only 131 of the country’s top research universities.

Research has demonstrated that individuals with higher levels of education earn more and are more likely to be employed. College education is also associated with healthier lifestyles, reducing health care costs. Adults with higher levels of education are more active citizens than others and are more involved in their children’s activities.

USM previously announced plans to resume on-campus operations this fall. The regular semester is currently scheduled to begin on August 17, 2020. These plans could change, as guidance from public health officials monitoring COVID-19 continues to evolve. Summer courses are being delivered online.

“The Southern Miss on-campus experience has proven to be a strong indicator of student success,” Bennett said. “The safety and well-being of our students and our entire University community are our top priority, and although our fall semester will look different, our commitment to preparing our students for the world that awaits them has not wavered.

“While many factors are still unknown, the fall semester will undoubtedly be another test of our demonstrated ability to meet any challenge with innovation and determination,” he added.