The University of Southern Mississippi, founded in 1910, started as a teachers college. The institution now offers more than 180 undergraduate and graduate degrees in the areas of arts and letters; business; education and psychology; health and science and technology, according to the university's website. The University of Southern Mississippi is also one of the few universities in the nation that offers accredited programs in art, dance, theater and music. Community service is important at this public institution and is something both faculty and students participate in. Tuition for undergraduate and graduate in-state students is $2,726 per semester as of January 2011.
William Carey University has three campuses, with the main one being located in Hattiesburg. Founded in 1906, it was formerly known as the Mississippi Woman's College. This private university offers several undergraduate programs in the arts, business, sciences, education and religious studies. Masters degree programs are available in education, psychology, business and biomedical science. U.S. News & World Report lists William Carey University as one of the best colleges in its 2011 rankings. Undergraduate tuition is $325 per credit hour and graduate tuition is $280 per credit hour as of January 2011. Tuition for nursing programs is slightly higher.
Antonelli College has campuses in both Mississippi and Ohio. The Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges accredits this institution. Program offerings vary depending on campus location. The Hattiesburg campus offers programs in the business, health and medical fields including medical coding, dental assisting, personal fitness training, information technology and legal assisting. Students may qualify for federal financial aid programs and student loans.
Pearl River Community College's main campus is located in Poplarville, Mississippi, but the institution's Forrest County Center is located in Hattiesburg. This facility houses classrooms, labs, a library and the Allied Health Center. Programs offered in Hattiesburg include electronics, office systems technology, adult education/GED and heating and air conditioning. Several allied health programs are offered such as medical lab technology, respiratory therapy, dental hygiene, surgical technology and practical nursing. Tuition for in-state students taking at least 12 credit hours is $1,000 per semester as of January 2011.