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HBCU Profile

Jackson State University (JSU)

Jackson, Mississippi Public Bachelor's Doctorate Master's

Jackson State University is a public HBCU in Jackson, Mississippi, known for urban research, Tiger pride, academic opportunity, and a strong tradition of community engagement.

At a Glance

Founded
1877
Enrollment
6,800
School Type
Public
Institution Type
4-Year
Degree Types
Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate
Mascot
Tigers
Colors
Blue, White
Athletic Division
NCAA Division I FCS
Conference
Southwestern Athletic Conference
Region
Southeast
FAFSA Code
002410
Affiliation
None

Overview

Jackson State University is a public historically Black university located in Jackson, Mississippi. Founded in 1877, JSU serves as a major educational and research institution with programs across business, education, health sciences, liberal arts, science, engineering, technology, and public service.

Known for Tiger pride and the Sonic Boom of the South, Jackson State combines a strong academic mission with a vibrant campus culture and deep ties to Mississippi communities.

Why This HBCU Stands Out

Jackson State stands out for its urban research mission, strong HBCU traditions, SWAC athletics, community engagement, and role in preparing students for leadership in Mississippi and beyond.

Academics

Colleges & Schools

  • College of Business
  • College of Education and Human Development
  • College of Health Sciences
  • College of Liberal Arts
  • College of Science, Engineering and Technology
  • School of Public Health
  • Graduate School

Popular Majors

Business AdministrationCriminal JusticeBiologyComputer ScienceEducationSocial WorkPsychologyHealth SciencesEngineeringMass Communications

Majors by Category

  • Business: Business Administration, Accounting, Finance, Management, Marketing
  • STEM: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, Engineering, Mathematics, Technology
  • Education: Elementary Education, Secondary Education, Educational Leadership
  • Health Sciences: Public Health, Communicative Disorders, Healthcare Administration
  • Liberal Arts: English, History, Political Science, Sociology, Psychology
  • Communications: Mass Communications, Journalism, Media Studies

Unique Programs

  • Urban research and community-focused programs
  • Sonic Boom of the South marching band tradition
  • School of Public Health
  • STEM and engineering pathways
  • Public service and urban engagement initiatives

Online Programs

  • JSU Online
  • Online degree and certificate programs
  • Distance learning options

Honors Programs

  • W.E.B. Du Bois Honors College

Admissions & Financial Aid

Cost & Financial Aid

Application Fee
$25

Student Life & Athletics

Jackson State offers a spirited campus experience with student organizations, service programs, Greek life, athletics, arts, campus traditions, and a strong sense of Tiger pride.

Student Organizations

Student Government Association Academic clubs and honor societies Greek-letter organizations Service and leadership organizations Cultural and identity-based organizations Media and communications organizations

Greek Life

Greek life at Jackson State includes historically Black fraternities and sororities that contribute to student leadership, service, and campus tradition.

Campus Traditions

  • Homecoming
  • Sonic Boom performances
  • Tiger pride events
  • Founder’s Day
  • SWAC rivalry traditions
  • Community service and leadership events

Marching Band: Sonic Boom of the South

Sports

  • Football
  • Baseball
  • Men’s Basketball
  • Women’s Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Golf
  • Tennis
  • Track & Field
  • Bowling
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Volleyball

Visit Athletics Site →

History & Legacy

Jackson State University traces its roots to 1877 and has evolved from a private seminary into a public university with a broad academic and research mission.

Founding Legacy

JSU’s founding legacy centers on expanding educational opportunity for Black students and preparing graduates to serve, lead, and strengthen communities.

Notable Milestones

  • 1877 – Founded as Natchez Seminary
  • 1882 – Relocated to Jackson, Mississippi
  • 1940 – Became a state-supported institution
  • 1974 – Became Jackson State University

Notable Alumni

  • Walter Payton
  • Lem Barney
  • Robert Brazile
  • Rod Paige
  • Cassandra Wilson
  • Tonea Stewart
  • C. L. Franklin

Location

1400 J R Lynch St