Education
The region’s education sector employs approximately 7,000 direct employees in K-12 and higher education. Greater Hattiesburg is home to two major universities, two community colleges, and eight primary and secondary education districts.
Hattiesburg is continually seeking ways to aid its citizens in obtaining the skills and knowledge needed to compete in today’s global economy. Top-tier university research facilities, partnerships, and new and upcoming workforce development initiatives fuel the Hattiesburg economy towards long-term growth.
Greater Hattiesburg also boasts some of the top performing k-12 schools in the state, including Petal High School and Oak Grove High School which were named 2 of the top 5 best high schools in Mississippi (NICHE, 2016).