As the first state-funded public university for women, Mississippi University for Women will continue its historic focus with the proposal of the Women’s College at Mississippi University for Women.

Classroom

In February 2024, The W will seek approval from the Board of Trustees of Institutions of Higher Learning (IHL), the governing body responsible for policy and financial oversight of Mississippi’s eight public institutions of higher learning.

“I am proud of this initiative that reflects our unwavering commitment to empowering women through education,” said University President Nora Miller.

The new college will offer all students, regardless of major, highly personalized and high-impact experiences that will showcase women’s excellence and leadership in the past and present while providing skills and professional experience to empower paths. Through specialized programming, research and mentor relationships, the college will provide students with the opportunity to advance their interest in women’s leadership.

“I am incredibly excited by the prospect of The Women’s College. The college will draw upon our many courses, our many curricular and co-curricular programming opportunities and our many areas of excellence to magnify our historic mission and perpetuate the institution’s history of being the first state supported college for women in the country,” said Dr. Scott Tollison, provost and executive vice president of academic affairs.

Pending IHL approval, applications for the college will open in spring 2024 for the upcoming 2024 fall semester.

Upon completion of the curriculum of the college, students of the Women’s College will receive special recognition at their commencement ceremony and on their academic transcript. Additionally, the college will offer scholarship opportunities.

The creation of the Women’s College was a result of a working group of university faculty and administration with alumni representation. The college will integrate with the current university structure, facilities and faculty. 

About The W

Located in historic Columbus, Mississippi, The W was founded in 1884 as the first state-supported college for women in the United States. Today, the university is home to 2,227 students in more than 70 majors and concentrations and has educated men for 40 years. The university is nationally recognized for low student debt, diversity and social mobility which empowers students to BE BOLD.

Be Bold. Tower with Blue.