36 Interesting Facts about Mississippi State University

Dan March 31, 2023

Mississippi State University is a public research university located in Starkville, Mississippi. It was founded in 1878 as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of the State of Mississippi and has since grown into a comprehensive university with a diverse student body and a wide range of academic programs.

The university is organized into eight colleges, including the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the College of Architecture, Art, and Design, and the College of Engineering. Mississippi State offers more than 175 undergraduate and graduate degree programs, including programs in business, education, forestry, and veterinary medicine.

Mississippi State is committed to research, with a strong emphasis on collaborative research and partnerships with industry and government agencies. The university is home to several research centers and institutes, including the Mississippi State University Research and Technology Corporation, which provides support for technology transfer and commercialization, and the Institute for Imaging and Analytical Technologies, which conducts research in imaging and analytical technologies.

The university is also known for its athletics programs, which compete in the Southeastern Conference. The Mississippi State Bulldogs have a strong football program and have appeared in multiple bowl games. The university also has successful basketball, baseball, and softball teams, among others.

Here are 36 interesting facts about Mississippi State University to give us more information about this public university.

1. Mississippi State University was founded in 1878 as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of the State of Mississippi.
2. The university is located in Starkville, Mississippi.
3. MSU is the largest university in the state of Mississippi.
4. The university’s mascot is the bulldog, and its colors are maroon and white.
5. Mississippi State has more than 22,000 students enrolled in its undergraduate and graduate programs.
6. The university is home to eight colleges, including the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences, the College of Architecture, Art, and Design, and the College of Engineering.
7. MSU offers more than 175 academic programs, including more than 40 online degree programs.
8. The university has a strong focus on research, with more than 100 research centers and institutes.
9. Mississippi State is designated as a “very high research activity” university by the Carnegie Foundation.
10. The university is home to the John C. Stennis Space Center, which is NASA’s largest rocket propulsion testing facility.
11. MSU is a founding member of the Southeastern Conference.
12. The university has 18 varsity sports teams that compete in the SEC.
13. Mississippi State’s football team has won several conference championships and appeared in multiple bowl games.
14. The university has also had success in basketball, baseball, softball, and other sports.
15. Mississippi State’s marching band, known as the Famous Maroon Band, has performed in several national events, including the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
16. The university’s main library, Mitchell Memorial Library, is named after former U.S. Senator John L. Mitchell.
17. The library contains more than two million volumes and is a Federal Depository Library.
18. Mississippi State has a large Greek system, with more than 30 fraternities and sororities.
19. The university is home to the Mississippi State University Golf Course, which has hosted several professional and amateur tournaments.
20. Mississippi State has a student-run newspaper called The Reflector.
21. The university has a tradition of ringing the Cowbell during football games.
22. Mississippi State has a large alumni network, with more than 145,000 alumni living in all 50 states and in more than 100 countries.
23. MSU is home to the MSU Riley Center for Education and Performing Arts, which hosts concerts, plays, and other cultural events.
24. The university has a strong online learning program, with more than 40 fully online degree programs.
25. Mississippi State is home to the Cobb Institute of Archaeology, which conducts research on ancient civilizations in the southeastern United States.
26. The university is also home to the Institute for Imaging and Analytical Technologies, which conducts research on imaging and analytical technologies.
27. MSU has a large agriculture program, with research and outreach centers throughout the state.
28. Mississippi State has a student chapter of Engineers Without Borders, which works on engineering projects in developing countries.
29. The university has a long history of military service, with many alumni serving in the armed forces.
30. Mississippi State is designated as a “Military Friendly School” by GI Jobs magazine.
31. MSU is a leader in sustainable energy research, with several research centers dedicated to renewable energy and sustainability.
32. The university has a large student life program, with more than 300 student organizations and clubs.
33. Mississippi State’s College of Veterinary Medicine is one of only 30 veterinary schools in the United States.
34. The university has a tradition of ringing the chapel bells after football victories.
35. Mississippi State is home to the Maroon Volunteer Center, which coordinates community service projects for students.
36. The university has a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion, with programs and initiatives designed to support underrepresented groups.

Mississippi State University is a dynamic and innovative institution with a rich history of academic excellence and community engagement. With a diverse range of academic programs, research initiatives, and student life activities, MSU offers students a comprehensive educational experience that prepares them for success in their chosen fields. The university’s commitment to sustainability, diversity, and inclusivity ensures that students are equipped with the knowledge and skills they need to make a positive impact in their communities and the world. Whether you’re a prospective student, alumni, or member of the community, Mississippi State University is an institution that inspires and empowers individuals to achieve their full potential.