University of Southern Mississippi Hattiesburg
About University of Southern Mississippi Hattiesburg
The University of Southern Mississippi, located in Hattiesburg, is a comprehensive public research university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. USM is committed to providing students with a transformative educational experience and fostering a vibrant campus community.
location_city City, State & Campus Insights
Explore life, weather, culture, transit, and demographics around University of Southern Mississippi Hattiesburg
groups 1. City Size & State Population
Hattiesburg
140 sq km / 54 sq mi
48,730
2.9 Million
Density: 350 people per sq km / 900 people per sq mi
thermostat 2. Monthly Climate (Jan – Dec)
attractions 3. Top Places to Visit Nearby
African American Military History Museum
MuseumDedicated to preserving the history of African American veterans from all branches of the armed forces.
Paul B. Johnson State Park
ParkOffers camping, fishing, boating, and hiking opportunities around the scenic Lake Geiger.
Hattiesburg Zoo
ZooHome to a diverse collection of animals from around the world, with engaging exhibits and educational programs.
Longleaf Trace
Recreational TrailA 41-mile paved rail-trail perfect for walking, running, cycling, and horseback riding through scenic landscapes.
restaurant 4. Top Local Foods & Cuisines
Fried Catfish
A Southern staple, often served with hushpuppies, coleslaw, and tartar sauce.
Shrimp and Grits
Creamy grits topped with seasoned shrimp, a popular dish in the region.
Mississippi Mud Pie
A rich, chocolatey dessert with layers of cookie crust, chocolate pudding, and whipped cream.
diversity_3 5. Racial & Demographic Composition
Hattiesburg exhibits a diverse racial composition, with significant African American and White populations, reflecting the broader demographics of Mississippi.
workspace_premium 6. Notable University Alumni & Figures
Walter Payton
Attended Jackson State University (not USM Hattiesburg directly, but a prominent figure from Mississippi), widely regarded as one of the greatest football players of all time.
Brett Favre
Attended the University of Southern Mississippi, where he became a star quarterback before a legendary NFL career.
Jimmy Buffett
Attended the University of Southern Mississippi, famous for his 'Margaritaville' lifestyle and music.
directions_bus 7. Transportation & Getting Around
Hattiesburg's transportation primarily relies on personal vehicles, with limited public transit options. The city is served by a regional airport and is accessible via major highways.
Public Transit (Buses & Metro)
Hattiesburg has a public bus system (Hattiesburg Transit) with several routes, but coverage can be limited compared to larger cities. Fares are typically low.
Walking & Cycling
The city has some bike lanes and pedestrian infrastructure, particularly around the university and downtown areas. The Longleaf Trace offers a dedicated path for cycling and walking. Walk Score: 30 (Car-Dependent), Bike Score: 39 (Somewhat Bikeable).
Regional Rail & Airport
Hattiesburg-Laurel Regional Airport (PIB) offers limited commercial flights. Major airports like Gulfport-Biloxi International (GPT) and Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International (JAN) are within a 1-2 hour drive. No passenger rail service directly in Hattiesburg.
school 8. Education & Literacy Level
98.5%
28.5% (Hattiesburg city) / 23.5% (Mississippi state)
Hattiesburg is a university town, which elevates its educational attainment compared to the state average. The University of Southern Mississippi is a major academic hub, contributing significantly to the local intellectual and cultural environment. Mississippi generally lags in higher education attainment compared to the national average.
trending_up 9. Main Source of Economy & Industries
Hattiesburg's economy is primarily driven by healthcare, education, retail, and manufacturing. The University of Southern Mississippi is a significant economic engine for the city.
Key Driving Industries
Major Corporate Employers
Popular Programs
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Admissions Info
Application Period
Main intake starts in September. Applications are typically accepted from October to January for the following academic year.
Fees & Living Costs
Tuition Fees / Year
$9,500.00 - $23,000.00
Living Expenses / Year
$12,000.00 - $20,000.00
* Costs are estimated. Actual fees may vary by course and lifestyle.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Need-Blind Admission
Financial need is not considered during the admission process for both domestic and international students.
Campus Life
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