Degree Dividend
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University of Southern Mississippi vs William Carey University: which has better ROI?

Public, Hattiesburg MS · vs · Private nonprofit, Hattiesburg MS

The verdict

Neither clears its cost on institution-wide earnings, but William Carey University comes closer — median earnings $43,087 against a $57,032 total, vs $44,140 at University of Southern Mississippi. (Scorecard, 2026 · our math.)

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Head to head
MeasureUniversity of Southern MississippiWilliam Carey University
Net price / yr$21,708$14,258
Total net cost$86,832$57,032
Median earnings, 10 yrs$44,140$43,087
Median debt$22,500$20,832
Payback
20-year net return-$171,232-$162,492

College Scorecard (2026), institution-level · payback and returns are our math. Figures blend all majors.

University of Southern Mississippi vs William Carey University: frequently asked questions

Is University of Southern Mississippi or William Carey University a better value?
William Carey University comes closer, but neither clears its cost on institution-wide earnings — the field you study decides it here more than the school.
Which is cheaper, University of Southern Mississippi or William Carey University?
William Carey University: $14,258/yr net price after aid versus $21,708/yr at University of Southern Mississippi — a difference of $7,450 a year, or about $29,800 over four years.
Do University of Southern Mississippi or William Carey University graduates earn more?
University of Southern Mississippi graduates earn a median $44,140 ten years after entry, versus $43,087 at William Carey University — a $1,053 gap. This blends every major, so a specific field can flip it.