Murray State University
Murray, United States • Founded 1922
Updated Oct 2026 · Source: murraystate.edu
Overview
Established in 1922, the Murray State University is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the rural setting of the large town of Murray (population range of 10,000-49,999 inhabitants), Kentucky.
This institution also has branch campuses in Paducah, Hopkinsville, Henderson, Madisonville and Fort Campbell. Officially accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Murray State University (MSU) is a medium-sized coeducational US higher education institution.
Murray State University (MSU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor's degrees (i.e. certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study. This 102-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades.
The acceptance rate range is 80-89% making this US higher education organization a least selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment. MSU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Geographic and contact information for Murray State University is listed below.
Academic Details
The numbers behind Murray State University: student body, academic staff, and recognising bodies.
Academic Structures
Murray State University's academic units are listed below, by type.
Unit 7 items
- Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business
- College of Education and Human Services
- College of Humanities and Fine Arts
- Huston School of Agriculture
- Jesse D. Jones College of Science, Engineering and Technology
- School of Nursing and Health Professions
- The Graduate School
Programs Offered
Murray State University's programme catalogue is grouped by level below.
88 programmes on record. Each level below shows a sample. Compare these on the programs page All programs in United States
Bachelor's Degree 60 programmes
Showing 10 of 60.
Master's Degree 19 programmes
Showing 10 of 19.
Doctorate 2 programmes
Certificate 3 programmes
Postgraduate Certificate 2 programmes
Postgraduate Diploma 2 programmes
Scholarships in United States
Funding options available to students studying in the United States, alongside Murray State University's costs.
How to apply to Murray State University
How to apply to Murray State University — a five-step structure.
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1
Research programmes at Murray State University
Use the programme finder to browse Murray State University's 88 active programmes. Filter by keyword or scan by degree level. Read curriculum details on each programme's dedicated page if available.
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2
Review admissions criteria
Programme-level requirements at Murray State University typically include academic transcripts, language proficiency proof, identity documents, and a personal statement or interview. Confirm specific requirements with the admissions office.
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3
Gather supporting documents
Prepare academic transcripts, ID/passport copies, language proficiency proof, a personal statement, and reference letters. International candidates may need apostilled or notarised translations — start early to avoid deadline pressure.
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4
Lodge your application
Murray State University processes applications through www.murraystate.edu. Create an account, fill out the application form, and submit your documents. Note application deadlines, which vary by intake and programme.
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5
Confirm receipt and track progress
Confirm receipt of your application with the admissions office and keep an eye on your portal for status changes. You can reach the institution by email at msu.admissions@murraystate.edu or by phone at +1 (800) 272 4678. Quick responses to any follow-up requests keep your application moving smoothly through the review process.
Frequently Asked Questions about Murray State University
Quick answers to common questions about Murray State University.
How old is Murray State University?
The institution opened in 1922 (approximately 104 years ago).
In which city is Murray State University?
Murray State University is based in Murray, United States.
What is Murray State University's control type?
Murray State University operates as a public institution.
How many students study at Murray State University?
Murray State University has approximately 6,688 students.
How is Murray State University organised academically?
The institution comprises 7 academic units.
Who recognises Murray State University?
The institution holds recognition from Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
What is Murray State University's official website?
Murray State University's official website is www.murraystate.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
When shortlisting in the United States, students often start with the top-ranked institutions. Below are the national leaders worth comparing against Murray State University, helpful for calibrating where Murray State University sits in the broader landscape.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), alongside Murray State University.
Faculties at nearby universities
The institutions below are geographically close to Murray State University.
Where Else to Study Education & Teaching
Universities in the United States with Education & Teaching programmes appear below, alongside Murray State University.
Universities Compared with Murray State University
Below are universities sometimes compared with Murray State University.
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