The University of Southern Mississippi (USM), is a public research university with its main campus located in Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Southern Miss is one of three institutions within the state, and one of only 36 institutions in the nation accredited in theatre, dance, art and design, and music. The University hosts hundreds of public arts events each year, providing cultural experiences for community members. Offering more than 250 clubs and organizations, as well as intramural athletics and special events, you won't be short of things to get involved with. Enjoy the close atmosphere this campus has to offer and show your support for the 'Golden Eagles' by wearing their black and gold colours. Less than 2 hours away from New Orleans, Hattiesburg is a great hub for further travel and offers its own attractions with a number of opportunities to try the local cuisine in such a historically rich town. Hattiesburg also has a humid subtropical climate, with short, mild winters and hot, humid summers so pack ready for summer!
It will not be possible to complete a year abroad at this University if you have any assessments, such as supplementary or deferred exams, during the August assessment period at Swansea University.
Who can study here?
Swansea has a ‘university-wide’ partnership with this university which means that it is open to all subject areas except for Classics, English Language, Criminology, Law and Engineering.
Spaces are not guaranteed, can be limited and all students on a semester/year abroad programme are subject to a university-wide, competitive selection process.
Important information
ACADEMIC YEAR: Runs from August to May.
COSTS: The cost of living in Southern Mississippi will vary depending on your chosen accommodation and your lifestyle.
VISA: You will need a J-1 Exchange Visitor visa to study at USM. As part of the visa application, you will need to evidence financial support. To apply for a visa, you will need to pay a SEVIS fee of approx $220 plus an application fee of approx $185. In addition, you should factor in the cost of attending a visa interview at the US Embassy (typically in London). More information is available on the US Embassy website. You must allow enough time to complete the visa application and for your visa to be sent to you. There can be significant delays, so please do not leave this until the last minute as you cannot travel to the USA without it. Your host university will provide you with more information about the application process.
ACCOMMODATION: On-campus accommodation is available but is not guaranteed. Students are able to apply for on-campus accommodation once accepted to USM. More information can be found on USM's accommodation webpage.
HEALTH INSURANCE: Exchange students are required to purchase the health insurance plan provided by United Healthcare. USM will provide you with further information.
IMMUNISATIONS: You will be required to provide evidence of an up to date MMR vaccine upon arrival in USM. You will need to make sure you have received all the necessary vaccines before departing for the U.S.
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