Rust College

Rust College offers a range of undergraduate programs, with popular majors including Biology, Business Administration, Computer Science, and Elementary Education. The college has a student-faculty ratio of 11:1, ensuring personalized attention. Despite its small size (429 undergraduates), Rust provides a liberal arts foundation with a focus on preparing students for careers or further education. The freshman retention rate is 66%, indicating moderate student satisfaction.

Life at Rust College revolves around its small, close-knit community. With just 429 undergraduates (49.4% male, 50.6% female), the campus fosters strong relationships between students and faculty. The Student Government Association actively works to enhance campus life, and recent renovations to residence halls like Wiff Hall have improved living conditions. Students describe the environment as supportive and family-like, with opportunities to engage in diverse cultural experiences.

Graduation rates at Rust College are low, with only 27% of students completing their degrees within six years. However, those who graduate often pursue careers in fields like Biology, where reported earnings are competitive. Median earnings six years after graduation are $25,641, rising to $32,000 after ten years. The college faces challenges in retention, with a 9.5% retention rate, but aims to improve outcomes through academic support and career preparation.

Tuition at Rust College is $25,077 per year, but the average net cost after aid drops to $12,587. Financial aid packages often include federal grants ($8,330 on average), state grants ($6,029), and institutional aid ($6,414). Pell Grants average $6,565, making the college accessible to low-income students. The Net Price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. Calculator helps families estimate their actual costs, and the financial aid office provides personalized support for applications like the FAFSA.

Rust College stands out as Mississippi's oldest HBCU, offering a historically rich education with a strong sense of community. Its small size allows for individualized attention, and recent campus improvements, like renovated residence halls, enhance student life. While graduation rates are a challenge, the college's focus on STEM fields (like Biology and Computer Science) and its commitment to affordability make it a unique option for students seeking a supportive, historically significant environment.