Alcorn State University and Jackson State University are both proud HBCUs, vital to providing higher education opportunities for Black students.
Choosing the right college is a big decision. This comparison of Alcorn vs. Jackson State highlights key differences in cost, academics, and campus life to help prospective students and their families make an informed choice.
Overview and Location
Let’s take a quick look at each university:
Alcorn State University
- Location: Alcorn State is located in rural Mississippi. Founded in 1871, it has the distinction of being the first Black land-grant college in the nation.
- Enrollment: Alcorn State has an undergraduate enrollment of around 2,894 students.
- Type: Alcorn State is a public, four-year university.
Jackson State University
- Location: Jackson State is located in urban Jackson, Mississippi, the state capital.
- Enrollment: Jackson State has a larger undergraduate enrollment of roughly 6,564 students.
- Type: Like Alcorn State, Jackson State is a public, four-year university.
Costs and Financial Aid
Here’s a look at some of the costs associated with attending Alcorn State and Jackson State, along with information about financial aid.
- Tuition and fees: In-state tuition is $7,869 at Alcorn State and $8,815 at Jackson State.
- Room and board: At Alcorn State, room and board will run you about $10,255, while at Jackson State, it’s closer to $11,782.
- Net price and grant aid: The average net price at Alcorn State is $13,155, and the average grant aid is $10,763. At Jackson State, the average net price is $19,892, with average grant aid of $8,133. Note that Alcorn State offers grant aid to 100% of its students, compared to 92% at Jackson State.
Admissions and Academics
If you’re hoping to attend either Alcorn State or Jackson State, here’s what to know about their admission standards and academics:
Admission Standards
- Alcorn State: Alcorn has a 24.7% acceptance rate. The average GPA of accepted students is 3.2, and their ACT scores ranged from 15 to 24.
- Jackson State: Jackson State has a 91% acceptance rate. The average GPA is 3.1, and their ACT scores ranged from 15 to 20.
Academics
Alcorn State has a student-to-faculty ratio of 16:1, while Jackson State is slightly lower, at 15:1. Both universities offer a range of programs, but specific popular majors would require additional research.
Outcomes and Student Life
So, how do these two schools stack up when it comes to graduation rates, earnings, and student life?
- Graduation Rates: Jackson State has a slight edge, with a 40% graduation rate, compared to Alcorn State’s 33%.
- Earnings and Debt: After 10 years, Alcorn grads report median earnings of $33,600 and median student loan debt of $28,250. Jackson State grads report median earnings of $32,800 and $29,000 in student loan debt.
- Campus Life: Both universities offer on-campus housing and meal plans.
Frequently Asked Questions
What sports is Jackson State University known for?
Jackson State University has a proud athletics tradition, but it’s arguably most famous for its football program. With legendary coaches and a passionate fanbase, JSU football consistently draws national attention. However, Jackson State also fields competitive teams in basketball, baseball, track and field, and other sports.
What division is Alcorn State football?
Alcorn State University’s football program competes in the NCAA Division I Football Championship Subdivision (FCS). This is the highest level of college football below the Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS), which includes the Power Five conferences and other major programs. As an FCS school, Alcorn State is eligible to compete for the national championship at that level.
Is Alcorn State basketball d1?
Yes, Alcorn State University’s basketball program competes at the NCAA Division I level. As a Division I program, Alcorn State is eligible to participate in the NCAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments, often referred to as “March Madness.” The Braves and Lady Braves aim to secure a spot in the tournament each year by winning their conference championship.
The Bottom Line
Alcorn State and Jackson State are both excellent HBCUs with distinct strengths. Jackson State is larger and located in an urban environment, while Alcorn State offers a more intimate, rural experience.
When deciding between the two, prospective students should carefully consider their individual needs and preferences, visit both campuses if possible, and do more research to find the best fit.