The Board of Trustees is the constitutional governing body of the State Institutions of Higher Learning. The 12 Board members are appointed to staggered terms by the sitting governor and serve for 12 years. The Board Office, located in the Education and Research Center of Mississippi, is responsible for policy and financial oversight of the eight public institutions of higher learning. Thomas D. Layzell, Commissioner of Higher Education, is the Board's agent in administering the Board's policies. Divisions of the Commissioner's Office include finance and administration, public affairs and development, technology, academic affairs, planning and budget, construction and physical affairs, and economic research.
Available programs range from a variety of undergraduate disciplines to most professional fields.
All eight universities offer master's level programs, six have programs at the education specialist level and five offer doctoral-level programs. Universities are the wellsprings of civilization and human capital. Ours must be vital for our citizenry to thrive. The divides of history, geography, wealth, and culture are particular threats to diverse institutions and trustees. A willingness to honestly and collegially address issues is central to IHL planning.