Southern Miss Climbs the Ranks: A Leap in Educational Excellence!

In a remarkable achievement, the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) has climbed to No. 90 in the U.S. News & World Report’s 2025 Best Education Schools rankings. It’s a significant jump of nine places from the previous year, marking Southern Miss as the second-highest ranked institution in Mississippi for teacher education programs.

A Milestone in Mississippi’s Education

“The College of Education and Human Sciences continues to raise the bar on instruction and co-curricular programs,” says University President Dr. Joseph S. Paul. This recognition highlights the devotion of Southern Miss’s faculty in shaping future educators, a testament to their relentless efforts.

Evaluating Excellence: How Rankings Are Determined

U.S. News evaluates programs on various factors such as student selectivity, faculty resources, and peer assessment. This rigorous process provides prospective students with insights into nearly 500 colleges and universities nationwide, guiding them toward suitable educational paths. According to The University of Southern Mississippi, Southern Miss has clearly excelled in these domains, underlining its commitment to pioneering teacher education.

The Team Behind the Success

Dean of the College of Education and Human Sciences, Dr. Trent Gould, attributes this achievement to the unwavering dedication of the faculty, staff, and students: “This recognition is not just a win for our university—it’s a meaningful step forward for Mississippi as a whole, highlighting the state’s increasing leadership in shaping the future of teacher education.”

Comprehensive Educational Offerings

USM’s School of Education offers a plethora of programs from elementary and secondary education to graduate courses in educational administration and special education. These programs equip students with comprehensive knowledge and skills, ensuring their readiness for impactful careers in education.

A Legacy of Educational Prowess

Provost Dr. Lance Nail emphasizes that Southern Miss has a rich legacy of quality instruction and hands-on training. This legacy is further solidified by this year’s impressive rankings, validating the excellent work and success achieved by the College of Education and Human Sciences at USM.

Prospective students and those interested in education can explore Southern Miss’s achievements and how it stands among its peers by visiting the official rankings page.

This progress not only highlights USM’s dedication to advancing education but also paints a brighter future for Mississippi’s educational landscape.