What Is It Known For?
East Mississippi Community College started as Kemper County Agricultural High School in 1912, then reorganized as a community college in 1927. The institution operates as one of fifteen state-supported community colleges in Mississippi, serving students through multiple locations. The main Scooba Campus sits in Kemper County, while the Golden Triangle Campus operates in Lowndes County at Mayhew.
Additional courses are offered at Columbus Lion Hills Center and Communiversity, plus online through the Mississippi Virtual Community College since 2000. Current enrollment reached 4,145 students in 2025, up from 3,877 the previous year.
Degrees & Certifications
Most associate degree programs take two years to complete, while certificate programs vary in length depending on the field of study. Students can pursue associate degrees and certificates through various programs, including:
- Criminal Justice
- Accounting
- Baking and Pastry Arts
- Mechatronics Technology
- Nursing
- Business Administration
- Geography
- Automotive Technology
- Barbering/Stylist
- And Much More!
Class Schedules
EMCC provides flexible scheduling through online, hybrid, and traditional formats. Online classes let you study from anywhere, while hybrid courses combine web-based learning with on-campus sessions. For students with daytime commitments, evening classes are available in Adult Education and select career-technical programs, though offerings vary each semester. Many programs, particularly in health sciences, include clinical externships and fieldwork that provide hands-on experience in professional settings. Contact the school for current evening class availability in your program area.
Is It a Good School?
Yes. East Mississippi Community College is a legitimate institution. The school holds accreditation from theSouthern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate degrees.
Acceptance Rate
EMCC maintains a 100% acceptance rate, operating as an open-enrollment institution. This means that if you meet basic admission requirements, you can begin your college journey here.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
EMCC keeps education affordable with a straightforward tuition structure that rewards full-time enrollment:
In-State (Mississippi Residents):
- 1-14 credit hours: $165 per credit
- 15-19 credit hours: $1,800 flat rate
- 20+ credit hours: $1,800 + $165 per credit over 19
Out-of-State:
- 1-14 credit hours: $265 per credit
- 15-19 credit hours: $3,300 flat rate
- 20+ credit hours: $3,300 + $265 per credit over 19
Since additional fees, books, and living expenses can significantly impact your total investment, EMCC provides a net price calculator to help you understand the true cost of your education before you commit.
Programs & Courses
Business
- Accounting Technolgoy
- Administrative Office Technology
- Business & Marketing Management Technology
- Business Management Technology
- Hotel & Restaurant Management
Healthcare
- Medical Billing & Coding
- Ophthalmic Technology
- Associate Degree Nursing
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Practical Nursing
- Surgical Technology
Professional Services
- Baking and Pastry Arts
- Barbering/Stylist
- Cosmetology
- Culinary Arts Technology
Skilled Trades
- Construction Engineering Technology
- Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology
- Landscape Management Technology
- Utility Lineworker Technology
- Automotive Technology
- Diesel Mechanics
- Electrical Technology
- Mechatronics Technology
- Precision Manufacturing and Machining Technology
- Welding Technology
Technology
- Computer Networking
- Computer Programming
- Database Administration
- Drafting & Design
Campus Locations
Scooba 1512 Kemper St., Scooba, MS 39358
Mayhew 8731 South Frontage Rd., Mayhew, MS 39753
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, East Mississippi Community College (EMCC) has a mixed reputation, with its highly successful athletic programs often overshadowing the academic experience for some. The school’s public image and a portion of its reviews highlight a supportive and academically-focused environment. However, a significant portion of the feedback is related to the Netflix documentary Last Chance U, which draws strong and polarizing opinions about the football program’s coaching and academic standards.
Overall Score: 4.5/5 Stars
Common Praises
Strong Academics and Supportive Staff: Many students and alumni praise EMCC’s academics and faculty. They note that the professors are dedicated, caring, and willing to provide one-on-one help due to small class sizes. The campus is described as a great place for students to build a foundation before transferring to a four-year college, with many students feeling more confident in their ability to succeed after attending.
Excellent Campus and Facilities: Reviewers consistently mention the beauty and positive atmosphere of the campus. The facilities are described as clean and well-maintained. The campus community is also praised for being friendly and welcoming.
Opportunities for Success: The college provides numerous opportunities for students to excel, both academically and in extracurricular activities, which helps them gain confidence and build connections.
Athletic Success: The college’s sports programs, particularly football, are a point of pride for many. The beautiful stadium and championship-winning teams are often mentioned as a major draw.
Common Criticisms
Focus on Athletics: Many reviews, particularly those related to Last Chance U, express concern that the school’s focus on its football program comes at the expense of academics for athletes. Some reviewers question the academic requirements for players and criticize the on-field behavior of the coach and some players.
Inconsistent Experience with Staff: While many praise the staff, one reviewer from 2020 describes having a “bad experience” and feeling that deadlines were more important than education. This suggests that experiences may vary depending on the specific department or instructor.
Vague Negative Feedback: Some reviews are brief and simply label the school as “terrible” or “HORRIBLE” without providing specific reasons, making it difficult to understand the root of the criticism.
Momentum
The reviews for EMCC are heavily influenced by the Last Chance U documentary, with most of the commentary on the football program being from several years ago. However, more recent reviews (within the last couple of years) continue to show a mix of positive and negative experiences, with a focus on academics and campus environment. The overall high rating and positive comments from current students and alumni suggest that, despite the past controversies, the school continues to provide a positive experience for many.