Higher Education in Jones County

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Residents of Jones County have access to a number of institutions of higher learning within the region. We are in easy commuting distance to a junior college, two private colleges and one state university.

Jones County Junior College

- JCJC is the state’s largest single-campus two-year college. Fully committed to the junior college philosophy, JCJC offers not only academic instruction toward pursuit of higher degrees, but several career and technical certification programs, including those necessary in the technology and allied health fields. In recent years, JCJC has increased its offerings and sponsorship of advanced technology, the new Southpoint Advanced Technology Center at the Howard Technology Park the latest in a series of advancements toward this industry. JCJC emphasizes the full educational experience for students with a variety of sports, the performing and visual arts and student life organizations.

Southeastern Baptist College

- SBC was established in 1948 to provide an excellent two-year curriculum in a Christian setting. The college strives to maintain a Christian atmosphere both in and out of the classroom and more personal attention for individual students as they prepare for continued studies in the college and university setting. SBC is also highly involved in community outreach programs.

The University of Southern Mississippi

- Southern Miss is one of the largest public universities in the State of Mississippi. The main campus located in Hattiesburg – less than thirty miles from Laurel along Interstate 59 – this fully-accredited four-year school offers several bachelors, masters and doctoral degree programs. In recent years, Southern Miss has developed advanced research and study programs in polymer science, and is a driving force in progressing advanced technology in our area.

William Carey University

- Also located in Hattiesburg, William Carey University is a private four-year institution operated by the Mississippi Baptist Association. William Carey offers several bachelors and masters degree programs, including a bachelor degree in nursing. William Carey also excels in athletics with competitive baseball and basketball programs.