by our College Data Analytics Team
[Value](/majors/social-services-public-administration/public-administration/general/) is a field worth comparing on the balance of cost and outcomes. The schools below stand out for delivering a strong value education at a price that pays off.
College Factual analyzed 3 schools to build this 2027 ranking of the best value value schools.
What’s on this page:
Below are the schools that deliver the strongest value in value, balancing cost against outcomes.
Mississippi Valley State University earned the #1 spot for value among value schools in Mississippi. Mississippi Valley State University is a mid-sized public school located in the rural area of Itta Bena. The average in-state cost of tuition and fees is $7,692. Median earnings reach $31,919 ten years out. Mississippi Valley State University admits about 92% of applicants.
A rank of #2 makes Belhaven University one of the best values for value. Belhaven University is a moderately-sized private not-for-profit school located in the city of Jackson. The average in-state cost of tuition and fees is $30,250. Value graduates carry a median of $34,181 in student loans. Early-career value graduates make about $48,665. Weighed against typical debt, the earnings make a compelling case for value. Roughly 50% of applicants are accepted.
Students looking for strong value in value will find it at Mississippi State University, which ranked #3. Mississippi State University is a very large public school located in the town of Mississippi State. Expect in-state tuition and fees of around $10,202, while out-of-state students pay about $27,637. Typical student debt for value graduates is $23,969. Value graduates of Mississippi State University earn a median of $47,383 early in their careers. Weighed against typical debt, the earnings make a compelling case for value. Mississippi State University admits about 78% of applicants.
This ranking is produced by College Factual (MF_RANKING_2025), 2027 edition. Schools are scored on the balance of cost (tuition and student debt) against student outcomes (post-graduation earnings) — a measure of return on investment, drawn primarily from the U.S. Department of Education (IPEDS and College Scorecard).
Ranking method: College Major Best Value · 3 schools evaluated.
*Averages shown above reflect the top 3 ranked schools only.
More about our data sources and methodologies.