Mississippi State vs Alabama Manderson
Which MBA program is right for you?
Mississippi State
Alabama Manderson
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Metric | Mississippi State | Alabama Manderson |
|---|---|---|
| Ranking | #130 | #84 |
| Acceptance Rate | 67% | 63% |
| Avg. GMAT | 538 | 652 |
| Avg. GPA | 3.64 | 3.7 |
| Class Size | 22 | 50 |
| Avg. Salary | $92,000 | $72,000 |
| Employment Rate | 85% | 93% |
| Annual Tuition | $12,300 | $11,380 |
The Verdict
Choose Mississippi State if…
you want one of the cheapest SEC MBAs with project management and Mississippi's lowest cost of living.
Full Mississippi State Profile →Choose Alabama Manderson if…
you want a higher-ranked program (#87 vs #130) with the Alabama brand, larger alumni network, and broader placement.
Full Alabama Manderson Profile →Why People Compare These Two
Both are SEC MBA programs in the deep South. Alabama Manderson (#87) in Tuscaloosa has the higher ranking and the Alabama brand. Mississippi State (#130) in Starkville is cheaper and sits in one of the lowest cost-of-living areas in the US. Manderson outranks Mississippi State by 43 positions and produces higher salaries.
The Honest Take
Manderson is the better MBA. Higher ranking, stronger brand, better career outcomes. Mississippi State wins on cost: Starkville's cost of living is among the lowest of any college town in America, and in-state tuition is minimal. For students who will work in Mississippi and want the cheapest possible credential, Mississippi State delivers. For anything beyond the immediate region, Alabama's brand is significantly stronger.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is higher ranked?
Alabama Manderson (#87) outranks Mississippi State (#130) significantly.
Which is cheaper?
Mississippi State in Starkville has lower tuition and one of the lowest costs of living of any MBA program in the country.
Which has the stronger alumni network?
Alabama's SEC brand and larger alumni base create a much broader professional network.