Mississippi State University has secured a spot in the Top 10 schools nationwide for free speech, according to a recent ranking by the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression (FIRE). The university, ranked No. 10, is the only Southeastern Conference (SEC) institution to make the top tier for free speech protections.

The rankings, based on survey data collected by College Pulse from undergraduate students, reflect perceptions and experiences related to free speech on campus. FIRE, a national nonprofit, provides the full ranking information on its website.

MSU has long been recognized for its dedication to upholding First Amendment rights. For over a decade, the university has maintained FIRE’s prestigious “green light” rating, signifying strong free speech protections.

“A university’s strength is rooted in maintaining a marketplace of ideas,” said Thomas Bourgeois, Dean of Students and Associate Vice Provost for Student Success. “Although we don’t always agree on the topics of discussion, we recognize the importance of maintaining an environment that allows us to continue to have difficult discussions surrounding the complicated issues our world faces.”

This recognition continues to affirm MSU’s commitment to fostering a campus environment where free expression thrives.