Academics
Rust College is the second-oldest private college in the state of Mississippi, operating under the threefold educational vision of teaching, research, and community service. Stu dents can choose from twenty bachelor's degrees and two associate degrees across five academic divisions, though for balance, all students have a year's worth of general education requirements. There are also pre-professional curriculums available for students who intend to get secondary degrees after graduation, as well as programs for non-traditional students. And for students of exceptional academic ability, the Honors Program provides additional opportunities for personal engagement, intellectual involvement, and com munity growth. Any student needing additional academic support can receive tutoring, mentoring, or counseling via Student Support Services.
Career
Field trips and events are regularly scheduled, including tours of the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum and drive-in movie nights. A Mr. and Miss Rust are crowned annually from among the senior class, and act as a delegate-at-large from the student body to the Student Government Association. There are more than 40 clubs and organizations, and advisors to coordinate and develop college-wide programs for both residential and off-campus students. Student organizations include the Concert Band, Theatre Guild, and Baptist Student Union Gospel Choir, as well as college and intramural sports. The World Renowned A’Cappella Choir—earning its nickname through performances across the globe—performs major works, anthems, and spirituals. Rust takes the cultural and intellectual experience so seriously that it actually makes a certain amount of student participation mandatory. Each semester (through sophomore year) students must choose from and attend at least one lecture, seminar, assembly, chapel program, or concert.
Culture
A recent UNCF grant has allowed the school to better focus on workforce learning outcomes, with all five academic divisions ultimately making commitments to develop partnerships with businesses, corporations, and the government. Notable alumni include NAACP co-founder Ida B. Wells, journalist Clinton LeSueur, and composer Lucie Campbell.