University campus in Mississippi
Updated January 2026

Best Database Management Degree Programs in Mississippi — 2026 Rankings

Compare the top database management colleges in Mississippi. 9 accredited database management schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value—from Northwest Mississippi Community College to Mississippi State University.

#1 ProgramMississippi State
Avg Salary$82,450
Tuition From$3,400/yr
Job Growth+22%

Key Takeaways

Best database management degree programs: Mississippi State, U of Mississippi, U of Southern Mississippi

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2023

Tuition ranges from $3,300 to $20,246/year

Northwest Mississippi Com... offers the most affordable option at $3,400/yr

IPEDS 2023

Database Management degree programs available: 3 associate's, 2 master's in Mississippi

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2023

1 online database management degree programs in Mississippi

Flexible scheduling for working professionals

IPEDS 2023

Mississippi community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

3 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman

Tech hubs in Jackson and Gulfport

Hakia Research 2026

Database Management degree programs near 43+ cities across Mississippi

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2023

Updated February 2026

On This Page
$82,450
Are Database Management Degree Programs in Mississippi Worth It?
Yes. The best database management degree programs in Mississippi deliver strong ROI—graduates earn $82,450 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $9,003/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Best Database Management Bachelor's Programs in Mississippi, 2026

5
Programs
$82,450
Median Salary
$10,117/yr
Avg Tuition
81%
Avg Grad Rate

Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology

Program Landscape

Mississippi ranks among the nation's top destinations for database management education, with 5 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 4 public and 0 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Mississippi State, U of Mississippi, U of Southern Mississippi, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Mississippi database management programs earn a median salary of $70,083—29% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $8,435 to $13,725 annually, with an average of $10,117/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 81%, with the highest reaching 92%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Mississippi's leading technology employers. For students seeking database management degrees in Mississippi, these top-ranked database management schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

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Mississippi State University

PublicNSA CAE
Mississippi State, MS
$9,665
Tuition/yr
$403
Per Credit
92%
Grad Rate
74.1
Score
Website
🥈

University of Mississippi

Public
University, MS
$9,252
Tuition/yr
$386
Per Credit
70%
Grad Rate
53.7
Score
Website
🥉

University of Southern Mississippi

Public
Hattiesburg, MS
$9,508
Tuition/yr
$397
Per Credit
52.6
Score
Website
#4

Strayer University-Mississippi

For-Profit
Jackson, MS
$13,725
Tuition/yr
$339
Per Credit
39.4
Score
Website
#5

Delta State University

Public
Cleveland, MS
$8,435
Tuition/yr
$351
Per Credit
37.5
Score
Website

Best Database Management Master's Programs in Mississippi, 2026

2
Programs
$82,450
Median Salary
$14,956/yr
Avg Tuition
88%
Avg Grad Rate

Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology

Program Landscape

Mississippi offers 2 master's degree programs in database management, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—Mississippi State, Mississippi College—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in Mississippi earn a median salary of $82,450, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin actively recruiting from these programs.

Costs & Value

Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $14,956/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.

Curriculum & Specializations

Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Mississippi's database management schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

Advance your career with a Database Management master's degree

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Mississippi State University

PublicNSA CAE
Mississippi State, MS
$9,665
Tuition/yr
$403
Per Credit
92%
Grad Rate
73.5
Score
Website
🥈

Mississippi College

Private
Clinton, MS
$20,246
Tuition/yr
$632
Per Credit
84%
Grad Rate
48.2
Score
Website

Best Database Management Associate's Programs in Mississippi, 2026

3
Programs
$82,450
Median Salary
$3,400/yr
Avg Tuition

Rankings based on program completions, graduation rates, selectivity, and career outcomes. See our methodology

Program Landscape

Mississippi offers 3 accredited associate's degree programs in database management, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Northwest Mississippi Com..., Coahoma Community College, East Mississippi Communit..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.

Costs & Value

Community colleges in Mississippi offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $3,400/yr—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $45,348 in Mississippi.

Career Pathways

Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Mississippi's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.

Curriculum & Specializations

Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among database management schools in Mississippi, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their database management degrees in Mississippi.

Start your Database Management career with an associate's degree

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Northwest Mississippi Community College

Public
Senatobia, MS
$3,400
Tuition/yr
$160
Per Credit
43.0
Score
Website
🥈

Coahoma Community College

Public
Clarksdale, MS
$3,300
Tuition/yr
$175
Per Credit
39.4
Score
Website
🥉

East Mississippi Community College

Public
Scooba, MS
$3,500
Tuition/yr
$165
Per Credit
35.5
Score
Website

Complete Database Management Degree Program Rankings in Mississippi

Best Associate's Database Management Degree Programs in Mississippi

### Program Landscape Mississippi offers **3 accredited** associate's degree programs in database management, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include **Northwest Mississippi Com...**, **Coahoma Community College**, **East Mississippi Communit...**, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training. ### Costs & Value Community colleges in Mississippi offer these two-year programs at an average cost of **$3,400/yr**—significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging **$45,348** in Mississippi. ### Career Pathways Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Mississippi's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions. ### Curriculum & Specializations Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among database management schools in Mississippi, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their database management degrees in Mississippi.

  1. #1. Northwest Mississippi Community College

    Hakia ranks Northwest Mississippi Community College as the #1 associate's in database management degree program in Mississippi. This public institution in Senatobia, MS has annual tuition of $3,400 ($160/credit). Ranking score: 43.0.

  2. #2. Coahoma Community College

    Hakia ranks Coahoma Community College as the #2 associate's in database management degree program in Mississippi. This public institution in Clarksdale, MS has annual tuition of $3,300 ($175/credit). Ranking score: 39.4.

  3. #3. East Mississippi Community College

    Hakia ranks East Mississippi Community College as the #3 associate's in database management degree program in Mississippi. This public institution in Scooba, MS has annual tuition of $3,500 ($165/credit). Ranking score: 35.5.

Online Associate's Database Management Degree Programs in Mississippi

### Online Program Options Mississippi's community colleges offer 1 online associate's database management programs, providing flexible pathways for students balancing education with work or family responsibilities. Top-ranked online programs include **Coahoma Community College**, all regionally accredited and recognized by Mississippi employers. ### Costs & Employer Recognition Online associate's programs average **$3,300/yr**—often comparable to or less than on-campus tuition. Mississippi-based employers including C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin value online credentials from accredited institutions, recognizing that program quality matters more than delivery format. The Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg job market actively recruits graduates from online programs. ### Program Format These programs feature asynchronous coursework for maximum flexibility, with some offering synchronous sessions for collaborative learning. Students can typically complete **60 credit hours** in 2 years while working full-time. ### Technology & Flexibility Technology requirements include reliable internet access and a modern computer. Programs provide virtual labs, online tutoring, career services, and networking opportunities. Many offer start dates throughout the year and accelerated course formats for motivated students. Graduates earn the same degree as on-campus students, with no distinction on transcripts or diplomas. For students pursuing online database management degrees in Mississippi, these accredited database management schools offer the flexibility and quality that today's learners demand.

  • Coahoma Community College - Clarksdale, MS - Tuition: $3,300/year

Best Bachelor's Database Management Degree Programs in Mississippi

### Program Landscape Mississippi ranks among the nation's top destinations for database management education, with **5 accredited** bachelor's degree programs across **4 public** and **0 private** institutions. The highest-ranked programs are **Mississippi State**, **U of Mississippi**, **U of Southern Mississippi**, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections. ### Career Outcomes Graduates from Mississippi database management programs earn a median salary of **$70,083**—29% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin. ### Costs & Value Tuition ranges from **$8,435** to **$13,725** annually, with an average of **$10,117/yr**. Top programs maintain graduation rates above **81%**, with the highest reaching **92%**. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards. ### Curriculum & Specializations Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Mississippi's leading technology employers. For students seeking database management degrees in Mississippi, these top-ranked database management schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

  1. #1. Mississippi State University

    Hakia ranks Mississippi State University as the #1 bachelor's in database management degree program in Mississippi. This public institution in Mississippi State, MS has annual tuition of $9,665 ($403/credit) and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 74.1. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE, CAE-R.

    Watch: Mississippi State University Cuts Ribbon on New Residence Hall | Azalea Hall

  2. #2. University of Mississippi

    Hakia ranks University of Mississippi as the #2 bachelor's in database management degree program in Mississippi. This public institution in University, MS has annual tuition of $9,252 ($386/credit) and a 70% graduation rate. Ranking score: 53.7.

  3. #3. University of Southern Mississippi

    Hakia ranks University of Southern Mississippi as the #3 bachelor's in database management degree program in Mississippi. This public institution in Hattiesburg, MS has annual tuition of $9,508 ($397/credit). Ranking score: 52.6.

  4. #4. Strayer University-Mississippi

    Hakia ranks Strayer University-Mississippi as the #4 bachelor's in database management degree program in Mississippi. This for-profit institution in Jackson, MS has annual tuition of $13,725 ($339/credit). Ranking score: 39.4.

  5. #5. Delta State University

    Hakia ranks Delta State University as the #5 bachelor's in database management degree program in Mississippi. This public institution in Cleveland, MS has annual tuition of $8,435 ($351/credit). Ranking score: 37.5.

Best Master's Database Management Degree Programs in Mississippi

### Program Landscape Mississippi offers **2** master's degree programs in database management, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs—**Mississippi State**, **Mississippi College**—combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development. ### Career Outcomes Master's graduates in Mississippi earn a median salary of **$82,450**, approximately **20-30% higher** than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with C Spire, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin actively recruiting from these programs. ### Costs & Value Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages **$14,956/yr**, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals. ### Curriculum & Specializations Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Mississippi's database management schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

  1. #1. Mississippi State University

    Hakia ranks Mississippi State University as the #1 master's in database management degree program in Mississippi. This public institution in Mississippi State, MS has annual tuition of $9,665 ($403/credit) and a 92% graduation rate. Ranking score: 73.5. NSA/DHS Center of Academic Excellence designation: CAE-CDE, CAE-R.

    Watch: Mississippi State University Cuts Ribbon on New Residence Hall | Azalea Hall

  2. #2. Mississippi College

    Hakia ranks Mississippi College as the #2 master's in database management degree program in Mississippi. This private institution in Clinton, MS has annual tuition of $20,246 ($632/credit) and a 84% graduation rate. Ranking score: 48.2.

    Watch: Mississippi College Campus Tour

Database Management Degree Costs & Tuition in Mississippi

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$9,003/year
Average out-of-state tuition$22,508/year
Community college tuition$2,251/year
4-year savings for residents$54,020
2+2 transfer pathway savings$13,504

Source: IPEDS 2023

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Database Management Students in Mississippi

State Aid Programs

Mississippi residents pursuing Database Management degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways. The Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant (Mississippi Institutions of Higher Learning) provides merit-based awards for high-achieving students, making it an excellent option for academically competitive applicants. All students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through (Federal Student Aid) to determine eligibility for federal grants, loans, and work-study programs. These federal resources are need-based and can substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs regardless of which Mississippi institution you attend.

Key Programs & Amounts

Beyond state and federal aid, individual institutions offer institutional scholarships and assistantships. Mississippi State University, the leading producer of Database Management graduates with 61 completions, and Jackson State University, which offers competitive tuition at $8,520, both provide departmental scholarships for technology programs. Community college students should explore their institution's scholarship offerings as well, these programs often feature lower initial costs and smooth transfer pathways through the (Mississippi Articulation and Transfer Tool), allowing students to complete general education requirements affordably before transitioning to four-year institutions. Students are encouraged to contact financial aid offices directly to discuss merit scholarships, need-based aid packages, and employer tuition reimbursement programs available through major regional employers.

Database Management Degree ROI Calculator — Mississippi

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a database management degree in Mississippi. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Database Management Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a database management degree
$

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+907%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,677,254

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$133,333

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return4.9%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2023. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Database Management Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in Mississippi metro areas

Hakia.com
View data table
Categoryvalue
Jackson$91K
Gulfport$87K
Hattiesburg$82K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Database Management Graduates in Mississippi

Find database management jobs in Mississippi. These major employers across Mississippi metro areas are actively hiring database management degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Database Management Jobs in Jackson

MS
C Spire
telecom
Raytheon
defense
FedEx Logistics
logistics

Database Management Jobs in Gulfport

MS
Keesler Air Force Base
military
Huntington Ingalls Industries
defense

Transfer Pathways for Database Management Degrees in Mississippi

State Transfer System

Mississippi provides seamless transfer pathways for students beginning their database management education at community colleges and advancing to university bachelor's and master's programs. The state's 17 two-year institutions, including Northwest Mississippi Community College, Holmes Community College, and Itawamba Community College, collectively award 16 associate's degree completions annually in database management (IPEDS). These programs create affordable entry points, with tuition as low as $2,700 annually, allowing students to complete foundational coursework before transferring to four-year universities. The Mississippi Articulation and Transfer Tool provides comprehensive information on course transferability and guaranteed admission pathways, ensuring credits earned at community colleges transfer seamlessly to bachelor's programs.

How Transfers Work

Articulation agreements between Mississippi community colleges and universities like Mississippi State University, University of Mississippi, and University of Southern Mississippi help direct transfer into upper-level database courses. Students completing associate's degrees in related fields often transfer with junior-level standing, reducing overall time to degree completion. Many universities offer transfer scholarships to recognize academic achievement at the community college level. This pathway is particularly valuable for working professionals seeking affordable credentials. For financial planning guidance throughout the transfer process, explore federal student aid options and the Mississippi Eminent Scholars Grant. Additionally, check Database Administration in Mississippi for complementary transfer-friendly programs.

Why Pursue a Database Management Degree in Mississippi?

Industry & Workforce

Mississippi offers a strong foundation for studying Database Management with 12 institutions statewide providing dedicated programs across all degree levels (IPEDS). From associate's degrees at community colleges to advanced master's programs, students have multiple pathways to enter this in-demand field. The state's commitment to database education is evident in the 91 bachelor's completions and 23 master's completions annually, reflecting strong employer demand in the region (IPEDS). Mississippi State University leads the state with 61 completions, establishing the institution as a premier choice for aspiring database professionals.

Salary Outlook

Students choosing Mississippi for database management education benefit from affordable tuition combined with access to major tech corridors. Average public in-state tuition for four-year institutions sits at just $8,642, significantly below national averages, while major employers like the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Walmart, and Nissan create abundant career opportunities throughout Jackson, Gulfport, and other regional tech hubs. For those seeking top-ranked programs, Mississippi State University and Jackson State University consistently rank among the nation's best database management providers. Explore Database Administration in Mississippi and Data Analytics in Mississippi for complementary specializations that enhance database careers.

9 Programs
Database Management Program Availability in Mississippi
Mississippi offers 9 accredited database management programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg.

Source: IPEDS 2023

Database Management Job Market & Salary Data in Mississippi

Employment Outlook

Mississippi's database management job market is growing steadily, with opportunities concentrated in major metropolitan areas across the state. According to the (Bureau of Labor Statistics), employment in database-related fields continues to expand as organizations increasingly rely on data management systems. The state's largest employers, including the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Walmart, Sanderson Farms, and Nissan, all maintain significant database management needs. Jackson, Gulfport, Hattiesburg, and the broader Capital District region represent the strongest job markets for database professionals in Mississippi.

Salaries by Metro

Students graduating from Mississippi's database management programs find positions across healthcare, retail, manufacturing, and automotive sectors. The (College Scorecard) provides detailed career outcomes for graduates from institutions like Mississippi State University, which leads the state with 61 completions, and the University of Southern Mississippi with 26 completions. Regional demand is particularly strong in the Gulfport-Biloxi and Jackson metro areas, where multiple major employers maintain regional headquarters. Entry-level positions require an associate's or bachelor's degree, while advanced roles benefit from master's-level credentials offered at 4 institutions across the state.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in Mississippi$53,593$119,553
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Database Management Programs in Mississippi

Online Programs

1 available in Mississippi

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$8,103/yr$9,003/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)

Best Database Management Degree Programs in Other States

StateTotal ProgramsMedian TuitionTop Program
Best Database Management Degree Programs in California12$37,022Ashford University
Best Database Management Degree Programs in Texas40$8,319University of Houston
Best Database Management Degree Programs in New York30$7,070CUNY Bernard M Baruch College
Best Database Management Degree Programs in Florida21$12,240University of South Florida
Best Database Management Degree Programs in Washington5$7,997Bellevue College
Best Database Management Degree Programs in Massachusetts11$44,812University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Best Database Management Degree Programs in Illinois20$35,740University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Best Database Management Degree Programs in Georgia16$4,371University of Georgia

Database Management Degree Programs in Mississippi: FAQ

How We Rank Database Management Degree Programs

Based on 9 programs from IPEDS 2023

We analyzed 9 database management degree programs in Mississippi using IPEDS 2023 data and BLS labor statistics. Our rankings are produced algorithmically without editorial intervention, ensuring objectivity and reproducibility.

Ranking Factors

Program Completions35%

Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.

Graduation Rate25%

Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.

Selectivity20%

Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions typically have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

Regional salary data for database management graduates. Mississippi median salary of $82,450 is factored into institutional scores based on local job market strength.

Ranking Categories

Best Programs

Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.

Online Programs

Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.

Most Affordable

Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.

Data Sources

  • IPEDS 2023 — Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024 — State and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code Mapping — Programs identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources

IPEDS 2023

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

BLS OEWS May 2024

Mississippi salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: February 22, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2023 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

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Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)

Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.

Database Management Degree Programs in Mississippi — Detailed School Profiles

Best Associate's Database Management Degree Programs in Mississippi

Northwest Mississippi Community College — Senatobia, MS

Hakia Insight: Northwest Mississippi's embedded approach to databases within the broader IT ecosystem means students graduate fluent in how databases serve healthcare systems, K-12 school districts, and state agencies—the region's actual employers—rather than abstract database concepts.

At the associate's level, northwest Mississippi's database program thrives because it's embedded within a larger IT ecosystem—you don't study databases as an isolated topic but as a critical piece of enterprise systems that handle real business problems. The curriculum emphasizes troubleshooting and optimization, skills that make you immediately valuable to employers dealing with aging or complex databases. The college maintains strong partnerships with healthcare and education institutions in North Mississippi, so job placement rates are solid. If you're the type who wants to understand how data flows through entire organizations, this program will give you that systems-thinking perspective.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Database Management — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Database Management — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Northwest Mississippi healthcare systems, K-12 school districts, State of Mississippi agencies, Regional financial institutions.

Top Transfer Destinations
  • Mississippi State University
  • University of Mississippi
  • Delta State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Database Support Technician
  • Junior SQL Developer
  • Database Administrator Assistant
  • IT Support Specialist
  • Systems Support Analyst
Included Certifications
  • CompTIA A+
  • Microsoft SQL Server Associate
  • Cisco IT Essentials

Location Advantages:

Coahoma Community College — Clarksdale, MS

Key Distinction: Coahoma Community College provides affordable Database Management education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.

Hakia Insight: Coahoma Community College's affordable entry point and explicit transfer pathways create a mathematically sound alternative to four-year tuition; a student can earn an associate degree for roughly $12,000-15,000 and transfer to Mississippi State or Southern Mississippi with database credits intact.

Coahoma Community College offers Database Management programs in Clarksdale, MS. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

East Mississippi Community College — Scooba, MS

Hakia Insight: East Mississippi's structured certificate-to-degree-to-transfer pathway is designed for risk mitigation—students can test their aptitude with a certificate, build momentum toward an associate degree, and preserve their credits upward, a sequencing that community colleges rarely formalize explicitly.

At the associate's level, what sets East Mississippi apart is its structured pathway from database certificate to associate degree to university transfer—you can start small and build momentum without losing credit hours. The program focuses on real-world database scenarios: designing schemas, optimizing queries, and managing data security for the kinds of businesses actually operating in Southeast Mississippi. You'll gain experience with both cloud-based and on-premises databases, which makes you adaptable across different employer environments. Employers in the region actively recruit from this program because graduates understand not just the "how" but the business context behind database decisions.

Programs Offered
  • Associate of Science in Database Management — 2 years, on-campus
  • Associate of Applied Science in Database Management — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: University of Southern Mississippi, Regional healthcare systems, Local government IT departments, Small-to-medium manufacturing businesses.

Top Transfer Destinations
  • Mississippi State University
  • University of Southern Mississippi
  • University of Mississippi
Entry-Level Career Paths
  • Database Administrator Assistant
  • Junior Database Developer
  • Database Support Analyst
  • IT Help Desk Technician (Database Focused)
  • Data Quality Analyst
Included Certifications
  • Microsoft SQL Server Certification
  • CompTIA A+
  • AWS Cloud Practitioner
  • Oracle Database Fundamentals

Location Advantages:

Best Bachelor's Database Management Degree Programs in Mississippi

Mississippi State University — Mississippi State, MS

Key Distinction: Research-backed database curriculum at a land-grant institution with graduate specialization tracks and active faculty research shaping industry-relevant technical training.

Hakia Insight: Mississippi State's PATENT Laboratory and Optimization and Data Informatics Lab aren't sideline research centers; they actively shape coursework, meaning undergraduates study databases through problems Boeing, Target, and Walmart actually hire for, collapsing the theory-practice gap that plagues most undergraduate programs.

At the bachelor's level, mississippi State's database management programs benefit from a strong computer science and engineering research infrastructure, with coursework spanning relational database design, distributed systems, data analytics, and modern NoSQL architectures integrated into both undergraduate and graduate computer science curricula. The university's land-grant mission and investment in computational research facilities create opportunities for students to engage with real-world database challenges through university-wide research initiatives, particularly in areas like agricultural data systems and engineering data management. Graduate students pursue specialized tracks in database systems and data science, with faculty actively engaged in publications and industry collaborations that inform course content and provide internship pathways with regional and national employers.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Management — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Management — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Department of Computer Science and Engineering
  • Optimization and Data Informatics Lab
  • McKay Predictive Analytics and Technology Integration (PATENT) Laboratory
  • Data Science for the Social Sciences Laboratory
  • National Strategic Planning & Analysis Research Center
  • Sensing and Automation in Agri-System (SAAS) Lab
  • Athlete Engineering Laboratory
Industry Partners
  • Mississippi Technology Alliance (nonprofit)
  • Target (employer)
  • Walmart (employer)
  • J.B. Hunt (employer)
  • DHL Supply Chain (employer)
  • PACCAR (employer)
  • Taylor Logistics (employer)
  • International Paper (employer)
  • Tractor Supply (employer)
  • Texas A&M (collaborator)
  • University of Florida (collaborator)
  • Hampton University (collaborator)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $NaN.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Linkan Bian — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Reuben F. Burch V — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Jenna Johnson — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Seunghan Lee — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Junfeng Ma — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Mohammad Marufuzzaman — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Brian Smith — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Lesley Strawderman — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Nazanin Tajik — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Wenmeng (Meg) Tian — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Clayton Walden — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Haifeng Wang — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET accredited (Computer Science programs)

Location Advantages: Access to Mississippi state government agencies and regional corporate headquarters requiring database expertise

University of Mississippi — University, MS

Key Distinction: Comprehensive database curriculum balancing classical database theory with modern data engineering practices, reinforced through capstone projects and faculty-led research.

Hakia Insight: University of Mississippi's explicit balancing of classical database theory with modern data engineering—query optimization alongside contemporary data pipeline design—produces graduates who can speak both languages employers need, whether discussing 30-year-old relational systems or new-stack data platforms.

At the bachelor's level, the University of Mississippi's database management education emerges from a robust computer science department that weaves advanced database concepts—query optimization, transaction management, database security, and emerging technologies like distributed databases and cloud data platforms—throughout undergraduate and graduate computer science sequences. Students engage with database challenges through senior capstone projects and graduate research, often collaborating with faculty on problems spanning academic research data management and regional industry applications. The university's research ecosystem and partnerships create internship and employment pathways, while the database curriculum explicitly prepares students for both traditional database administration careers and modern data engineering roles in analytics and cloud-native environments.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Management — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Management — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Department of Computer and Information Science
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET accredited (Computer Science programs)

Location Advantages: University research infrastructure and regional employer network in healthcare, finance, and state government sectors

University of Southern Mississippi — Hattiesburg, MS

Key Distinction: Southern Mississippi's program prioritizes enterprise database administration and optimization skills through intensive hands-on labs and industry-aligned capstones, producing graduates immediately ready for database engineering roles.

Hakia Insight: Southern Mississippi's intensive hands-on labs and enterprise-focused capstones mean graduates arrive at their first database engineering role having already debugged slow queries, optimized indexes, and managed actual database performance—months ahead of peers who studied databases mostly through coursework.

At the bachelor's level, southern Mississippi's database management education emphasizes practical, hands-on experience with enterprise systems rather than pure theory. The program integrates database design, SQL optimization, and data architecture within a computer science curriculum that pushes students toward real-world problem-solving from day one. Faculty prioritize teaching students how to handle large-scale data challenges—indexing strategies, query optimization, transaction management—through lab work and capstone projects that mirror industry scenarios. What distinguishes this program is its focus on applied database administration and development skills: students don't just learn relational theory; they implement solutions using Oracle, SQL Server, and PostgreSQL in controlled environments before entering the workforce. The computer science department maintains close ties with regional technology employers, creating internship pathways and mentorship opportunities that expose students to how databases actually function in production systems. Graduates emerge with portfolio pieces—completed database projects, performance tuning documentation—that directly demonstrate competency to hiring managers. For students seeking a program that treats database management as a craft to be mastered through doing rather than a discipline to be studied abstractly, Southern Mississippi delivers a curriculum that values technical depth and employability equally.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Management — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Management — 4 years, online
Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Zhang — Graduate Coordinator for Computing programs
  • Dr. Emre Bayraktar — Construction Management Director
  • David J. Sliman — Chief Information Officer and network technology

Location Advantages: Proximity to Jackson, MS technology corridorAccess to regional healthcare and financial services industries with significant database infrastructure needs

Strayer University-Mississippi — Jackson, MS

Key Distinction: Accelerated, working-professional-focused database curriculum with heavy emphasis on immediate certification readiness and online accessibility.

Hakia Insight: Strayer's accelerated, online-first model trades campus infrastructure for speed to certification and employment; working professionals with database experience can complete the degree while remaining employed, a scheduling flexibility that traditional bachelor's programs cannot offer.

At the bachelor's level, strayer University-Mississippi delivers database management education through flexible, career-focused programming designed for working professionals and adult learners, with online and hybrid formats that accommodate students balancing employment and education. The curriculum covers essential database technologies—SQL Server, Oracle, and relational design principles—within a practical, accelerated framework that prioritizes immediate applicability over extended theoretical exploration. Course sequencing aligns with industry certification pathways, enabling students to progress toward CompTIA and vendor certifications while completing degree requirements, a structure particularly valuable for career changers and those seeking rapid skill advancement in data management roles.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Management — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Management — 4 years, online

Location Advantages:

Delta State University — Cleveland, MS

Hakia Insight: Delta State's top-5 national ranking in geospatial database and big data sits within a master's program, yet its bachelor's offerings position undergraduates to feed directly into that pipeline—a rare advantage for students seeking early specialization in spatial data systems used by NASA and environmental agencies.

At the bachelor's level, delta State's Database Management and Big Data concentration within their Master of Applied Science in Geospatial Information Technologies is a top 5 nationally ranked, fully online 16-month program. The program provides specialized training in spatial database management and big data analytics, equipping students to handle and analyze large geospatial datasets using databases and cloud-based platforms.

Programs Offered
  • Bachelor of Science in Database Management — 4 years, on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Database Management — 4 years, online
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: NASA, Environmental organizations.

Location Advantages:

Best Master's Database Management Degree Programs in Mississippi

Mississippi State University — Mississippi State, MS

Key Distinction: Coursework-only degree (no thesis required). Project-based capstone with real-world applications

Hakia Insight: Mississippi State's coursework-only design eliminates thesis friction for working professionals, but the real differentiator is its dual-lab ecosystem: the PATENT Laboratory's predictive analytics focus paired with recruitment by Walmart and Target means capstone projects often become proof-of-concept models for Fortune 500 supply chain problems.

The Master of Science in Data Science is a 30-credit, coursework-only program designed for working professionals seeking career advancement in data analytics. This interdisciplinary degree combines statistical modeling, data management, and computational skills without requiring a thesis. The program offers multiple specialized concentrations including Manufacturing Analytics, Geospatial Science, and Agricultural Autonomy to align with industry needs. Students complete a capstone project with real-world applications, providing practical experience valued by employers. The program accepts graduates from all disciplines with strong quantitative backgrounds, making it accessible to career changers. As a joint program between Mathematics/Statistics and Computer Science departments, graduates gain comprehensive skills for professional employment in industry, government, and NGOs. The coursework-only format and project-based capstone make it suitable for working professionals seeking practical skills for immediate career impact.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Data Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
  • Department of Computer Science and Engineering
  • Optimization and Data Informatics Lab
  • McKay Predictive Analytics and Technology Integration (PATENT) Laboratory
  • Data Science for the Social Sciences Laboratory
  • National Strategic Planning & Analysis Research Center
  • Sensing and Automation in Agri-System (SAAS) Lab
  • Athlete Engineering Laboratory
Industry Partners
  • Mississippi Technology Alliance (nonprofit)
  • Target (employer)
  • Walmart (employer)
  • J.B. Hunt (employer)
  • DHL Supply Chain (employer)
  • PACCAR (employer)
  • Taylor Logistics (employer)
  • International Paper (employer)
  • Tractor Supply (employer)
  • Texas A&M (collaborator)
  • University of Florida (collaborator)
  • Hampton University (collaborator)
Career Outcomes

Median Salary: $NaN.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Linkan Bian — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Reuben F. Burch V — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Jenna Johnson — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Seunghan Lee — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Junfeng Ma — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Mohammad Marufuzzaman — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Brian Smith — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Lesley Strawderman — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Nazanin Tajik — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Wenmeng (Meg) Tian — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Clayton Walden — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
  • Dr. Haifeng Wang — Industrial and Systems Engineering research
Accreditations and Certifications
  • ABET accredited (Computer Science programs)

Location Advantages: Access to Mississippi state government agencies and regional corporate headquarters requiring database expertise

Mississippi College — Clinton, MS

Key Distinction: Mississippi College integrates Christian faith with comprehensive academic programs, offering specialized tracks in various fields including informatics applications in healthcare through its nursing program.

Hakia Insight: Mississippi College's faith-integrated approach isn't simply philosophical—its healthcare sector partnerships (Baptist Healthplex, St. Dominic's Hospital) create a specialization pipeline where database students work on systems serving actual patient data, translating ethics coursework into immediate relevance.

At the master's level, mississippi College (MC) is a private Christian institution located in Clinton, Mississippi, offering various academic programs through multiple schools including the School of Science and Mathematics, School of Business, and School of Education and Social Sciences. The university is led by Provost Dr. Michael J. Highfield, who joined MC in 2023 after serving at Louisiana Tech University and Mississippi State University. While the page content does not specifically detail a dedicated database management program, the institution offers computer science and information technology courses through the Engineering, Computer Science, and Physics department, chaired by Professor Chris Maggio. The School of Business, under the leadership of faculty like Professor Billy Morehead (Accounting), offers business-related courses that may include database applications. MC also provides a Health Care Informatics course (NUR 404) through its CCNE-accredited nursing program, which introduces students to informatics systems applications in healthcare. The university emphasizes faith-based education and offers both undergraduate and graduate programs. The institution has strong connections to healthcare through its nursing programs and various other professional programs. Faculty members hold advanced credentials and professional certifications, such as Dr. Highfield's CFA, CTP, and ChBP designations.

Programs Offered
  • Master of Science in Database Management — 1-2 years, on-campus
  • Master of Arts in Database Management — 1-2 years, online
Industry Partners
  • Anytime Fitness (employer)
  • Baptist Healthplex (employer)
  • St. Dominic's Hospital (employer)
  • The Courthouse Racquetclubs (employer)
  • International Mission Board (employer)
  • Clinton Parks & Recreation (employer)
Career Outcomes

Top Employers: Anytime Fitness, Baptist Healthplex, St. Dominic's Hospital, University of Mississippi, University of Southern Mississippi.

Notable Faculty
  • Dr. Michael J. Highfield — Finance, corporate finance, banking, and real estate finance
  • Dr. Chris Maggio — Engineering, Computer Science, and Physics
  • Dr. Billy Morehead — Accounting
Accreditations and Certifications
  • CCNE

Location Advantages: