From our beginnings in 1986 to where we are today, each chapter of our story has helped shape the future of online learning. Explore the timeline and celebrate the legacy of MS State Online.
1986
Mississippi State's Vision
for Distance Education
for Distance Education
Mississippi State University launches its distance education initiative in 1985, with the first classes beginning in Spring 1986. The program offers correspondence courses and video-based instruction, reaching students across Mississippi who were unable to attend traditional campus-based classes. This bold step marks the beginning of a transformative era in accessible higher education and establishes the foundation for what would become MS State Online.
1987
First distance-learning
courses offered.
courses offered.
Mississippi State University launches its distance education initiative in 1985, with the first classes beginning in Spring 1986. The program offers correspondence courses and video-based instruction, reaching students across Mississippi who were unable to attend traditional campus-based classes. This bold step marks the beginning of a transformative era in accessible higher education and establishes the foundation for what would become MS State Online.
1999's
Mississippi State Expands
Distance Learning to
Video-To-Screen Format
Distance Learning to
Video-To-Screen Format
Mississippi State University launches its distance education initiative in 1985, with the first classes beginning in Spring 1986. The program offers correspondence courses and video-based instruction, reaching students across Mississippi who were unable to attend traditional campus-based classes. This bold step marks the beginning of a transformative era in accessible higher education and establishes the foundation for what would become MS State Online.
2001
Creation and expansion
of the Center for Distance
Education (CDE).
of the Center for Distance
Education (CDE).
Mississippi State University launches its distance education initiative in 1985, with the first classes beginning in Spring 1986. The program offers correspondence courses and video-based instruction, reaching students across Mississippi who were unable to attend traditional campus-based classes. This bold step marks the beginning of a transformative era in accessible higher education and establishes the foundation for what would become MS State Online.
2003
Introduction of Canopy
Learning Management.
Learning Management.
Mississippi State University launches its distance education initiative in 1985, with the first classes beginning in Spring 1986. The program offers correspondence courses and video-based instruction, reaching students across Mississippi who were unable to attend traditional campus-based classes. This bold step marks the beginning of a transformative era in accessible higher education and establishes the foundation for what would become MS State Online.
2010's
Online programs expand
across the university.
across the university.
Mississippi State University launches its distance education initiative in 1985, with the first classes beginning in Spring 1986. The program offers correspondence courses and video-based instruction, reaching students across Mississippi who were unable to attend traditional campus-based classes. This bold step marks the beginning of a transformative era in accessible higher education and establishes the foundation for what would become MS State Online.
2020
MS State Online Strengthens
Online Infrastructure
During the Pandemic.
Online Infrastructure
During the Pandemic.
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift to remote learning across the globe. MS State Online quickly mobilized to support the university's transition, expanding its digital infrastructure and providing critical training and resources to faculty and students. The university's ability to adapt swiftly demonstrated the strength of its online programs and commitment to educational continuity during a global crisis.
2023
70+ online programs
and rapid growth.
and rapid growth.
MS State Online has grown to offer more than 70 online programs and certificates, serving thousands of students from across Mississippi and beyond. The expansion reflects the university's continued investment in accessible, flexible education — empowering students to earn degrees without sacrificing career, family, or location.
2025
MS State Online expanded
to 80+ online programs,
and is still growing.
to 80+ online programs,
and is still growing.
In 2025, MS State Online continues to break new ground. With over 80 programs offered in a fully online format, the university reaffirms its position as a leader in distance education. From undergraduate to doctoral levels, students across every discipline can pursue their goals on their own terms — with the same world-class faculty and rigorous curriculum that defines Mississippi State.
2026
40 years of evolving
online education.
online education.
MS State Online is still growing and we'll continue telling the story that hasn't been written yet. As we celebrate this milestone we're proud to continue delivering on our promise: expanding access to higher education across Mississippi and the world. With cutting-edge digital tools, dedicated faculty and a student-first approach, we look forward to the next 40 years.
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