Why University of Southern Mississippi?
An online Master of Business Administration degree program is offered by this mid-sized public research university in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. All students should have completed courses in accounting, finance and statistics prior to enrolling in the degree program. Applicants are accepted with undergraduate degrees in any subject, and while academic potential is definitely considered by the admissions committee, there is no specific GPA requirement.
Standardized test scores (GMAT or GRE) are expected of most applicants, and these can form the basis of scholarship and funding offers. Some applicants may choose to waive the test requirement. The program is under the direction of the university’s College of Business and Economic Development.
Program Snapshot
| University Name | University of Southern Mississippi |
| Location | Hattiesburg |
| State | MS |
| Niche.com Grade | B+ |
| Name of Degree | Master of Business Administration |
| School or Department Administering Program | College of Business and Economic Development |
| Credits | 33 |
| Cost per credit | 519.12 |
| Tuition for Entire Program | $17,130.96 |
| Test Requirements | Waivers available |
| Minimum GPA | none |
| Prerequisite Courses and Skills | prerequisite courses in accounting, finance and statistics |
| Campus Visit Required? | no |
| Typical Time to Complete | 1-3 years |
| When Can Students Start the Program? | Fall, Spring, Summer |
| Program Concentrations | none |
| Synchronous classes | both |
| Required Courses |
|
| Does the Program Include a Capstone? | no |
| Does the program include a practicum or internship? | no |
| Other Features that Make the Program Unique | available guaranteed scholarships for online students; very small program |
| Program Description | The program’s 33 credits can be completed within 1-3 years, through a mix of asynchronous and synchronous coursework. There are no practicum or capstone requirements. The curriculum offers several courses in global business, but no specific concentrations are available. |
What will I Learn?
With classes like Managerial Accounting, Global Location and Trade, and Financial Management, students are introduced to the fundamentals of the curriculum. Global Location and Trade, Global Business Systems, and Global Business Strategy are mandatory courses in the program’s curriculum, which placed a strong focus on the global dimension. With education in organizational behavior and leadership, analytical decision-making, and marketing management, students’ comprehension is deepened.
The remainder of a student’s required credits are obtained via approved electives.
The program offers a generalist curriculum and no concentrations are offered.
How much will the program cost?
Students finish their degree within 1-3 years and pay $$ 519.12 per credit for a total of 33 credits, or just under $17,130.96 for the entire degree.
How does the program fit into my life?
Unlike many other programs at this price point, the USM MBA program offers a mix of synchronous and asynchronous learning. Some classes offer scheduled lectures delivered via video technology. This structure allows students to build community, but presents additional scheduling challenges.
Synchronous classes are balanced with classes that are self-directed, with students completing a suite of tasks each week at their own pace.
No campus visit is required during the 1-3 year expected duration of the degree. Fall, Spring and Summer start dates are offered. Most students complete their degree part-time and pursue full-time paid work throughout.
Summary
The online MBA at the USM is highly affordable, with small class sizes and a flexible structure. Prospective students should be aware that the university offers guaranteed scholarships for online students, on the basis of GMAT scores. The curriculum combines a global emphasis with a commitment to building foundational skills and acumen.
