Overview
The University of Mississippi, commonly known as Ole Miss, is a public research university founded in 1844 and located in Lafayette County, Mississippi. As the oldest public university in the state and the largest by enrollment (about 24,700 students in 2023–24), Ole Miss is recognized for rigorous academic programs, a deep cultural heritage, and strong connections to research and public service. The university is designated as an R1 institution (very high research activity) and supports major initiatives such as the National Sea Grant and Space Grant programs. Academic strengths include liberal arts, journalism, pharmacy, engineering, business, and health sciences. Its campus is known for historic landmarks like the Lyceum and its association with writer William Faulkner. Ole Miss also operates the only FDA-approved, federally contracted cannabis research facility in the U.S.
2. General Information
| University Name | University of Mississippi (Ole Miss) |
|---|---|
| Location | Oxford, Mississippi, USA |
| Founded | 1844 |
| Type | Public Research University |
| Student Population | ≈ 24,700 (2023–24) |
| Campus Size | ≈ 3,500 acres |
If you’re comparing options within the region, you may also find it useful to review similar public research universities like the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, the University of Memphis, or the University of Maine.
3. Fee Structure
| Cost Category | Estimated Amount |
|---|---|
| In-State Total Cost | ≈ $35,542/year |
| Out-of-State Total Cost | ≈ $55,702/year |
| Undergraduate Tuition (residents) | ≈ $9,990/year |
Costs can vary based on program, housing choices, and course load, so applicants generally compare these estimates against the university’s latest published tuition and fee schedule for the intended academic year.
4. Academic Programs
- Liberal Arts & Sciences
- Journalism and Media
- Pharmacy & Health Sciences
- Engineering
- Business & Accountancy
- Law & Public Policy
- Agriculture & Environmental Sciences
Ole Miss students often choose majors based on both academic interests and research or applied opportunities tied to departmental strengths. If you’re exploring comparable program breadth at other large public universities, you might also compare options like the University of Massachusetts Amherst or the University of Minnesota.
5. Facilities
- National Center for Natural Products Research
- Center for the Study of Southern Culture
- Modern research laboratories
- Libraries and performance spaces
- Athletic stadiums and recreation centers
Beyond classroom learning, these facilities support student involvement in research, presentations, and campus events, which can be especially helpful for students pursuing career paths in science, communications, and public service.
6. Accommodation
- On-campus residence halls
- University-managed apartments
- Meal plans available
- Study lounges and support services
- Family and graduate housing
For many incoming students, choosing between residence halls and university-managed apartments is one of the first major decisions that affects both budget and daily routine. Checking meal plan options early can also help simplify planning for the first semester.
7. Contact Information
- Email: admissions@olemiss.edu
- Phone: +1 662-915-7211
- Address: Oxford, Mississippi, USA




