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Murray State University

Murray, Kentucky · Public

Ranked #14 US News
$9k/yearCost after aid

FindU Grade

BValue
N/ACampus
B-Academics
CAdmissions
B+Student Life
B-Overall

About

Murray State University is located in Murray, Kentucky. It is a public institution. The university enrolls approximately 6,646 students.

murraystate.edu

Cost and aid

True cost

Great value
$9kper year

Compared to $17k national average

Cost breakdown

In-state tuition$9,708
Out-of-state tuition$19,452
Room & board$10,594
Avg aid package$11,560
Students receiving aid31%
Pell grant recipients31%

Murray State University offers a strong value proposition, with 99% of new, full-time freshmen receiving scholarships or financial aid. It also boasts the highest percentage of graduates with no student debt among Kentucky public institutions. Recognized as one of America's best college values, Murray State provides an affordable education without compromising quality.

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Admissions

Test scores

SAT · middle 50%950–1190
4001600
ACT · middle 50%19–26
136

Application info

Acceptance rate86%
Average GPA3.60
Student–faculty ratio16:1
Test optionalYes
Common AppYes
Application fee$40

Admission to Murray State University is open, and future Racers can apply online. The university considers the whole student, including extracurricular activities, leadership, and motivation. With an acceptance rate of 86%, Murray State seeks students who demonstrate a passion for learning and a desire to contribute to the campus community.

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Academics

Graduation rate59%
Retention rate76%
Student–faculty ratio16:1
Full-time faculty78%

Murray State University blends the range of educational opportunities often found at research institutions with the nurturing student-teacher interactions usually found at smaller universities. The university places its highest priority on student learning and excellent teaching. With an average undergraduate class size of 18 and a student-to-faculty ratio of 17:1, students receive personalized attention and support from quality faculty and staff.

Outcomes

Median earnings (10 yrs)$44,737
Job placement rate97%
Earn more than HS grad68%
Economic mobility143%
Loan default (3 yr)6%
Loan repayment (3 yr)57%

Murray State University prepares students for successful careers, with a focus on real-world learning opportunities. The university's extensive global network provides students with promising career perspectives. A high percentage of graduates feel confident they will find a job in their field after graduation.

Student life

Demographics

Medium School
6,646Student size

Compared to 5,382 national average

More femaleGender ratio
Female 62%Male 38%
79% WhiteRacial diversity
White 79%Black 6%Hispanic 3%Asian 1%Other 11%
Campus housingYes

Murray State University offers a welcoming and friendly campus environment with over 170 student organizations. Students can participate in Greek life, intramural sports, and various campus traditions. The university's residential colleges provide a small, faculty-led community where getting involved is easy, fostering a strong sense of belonging.

Student reviews

Professors

Current Student

Murray State University offers an outstanding nursing and pre-veterinary/veterinary technology program. Murray State values hands-on learning and traveling abroad to heighten students' education inside and out of the classroom. Additionally, this university has immense student diversity, and there is a tremendous number of clubs and organizations for students to become involved in.

Student

I personally have really enjoyed Murray State University over my time here through my freshman and my sophomore years. I've enjoyed most of my professors here so far. They're all communicative and helpful if you do need the help. Their teaching styles for the most part are fairly easy to understand but challenging at the same time.

Campus and vibes

Junior

Receiving my education at Murray State has been a great experience both academically and socially. I have lived in Murray, Kentucky my whole life. At first, I was scared I was missing out on a lot by choosing a smaller, local school instead of going to a bigger one. I am now two years into my degree and coming here has been one of the best decisions I've made. I'd recommended Murray State to anyone who wants to go to a school that has a lot of opportunities and a small town environment.

Student

The university in and of itself is excellent; many of the people who populate it and the surrounding area are friendly and the faculty and staff desire student success and well-being. Further, Murray State offers the opportunity to interact with local as well as international students, all in a supportive and accepting environment that is not politically polar. Virtually all issues I have encountered are due to my own personal choices and poor decision making rather than faults of the university.

About Murray State University

Murray State University prioritizes campus safety, with 24-hour security patrols, campus emergency phones, and emergency alert systems. The Murray State Police Department works closely with local law enforcement to ensure a safe environment for students, faculty, and staff. The city of Murray has been recognized as one of the nation's Top 50 Safe College Towns.

The Honors College at Murray State University offers driven and determined students a challenging and rewarding academic experience. Students participate in interactive seminars, experiential learning opportunities, and personalized guidance. The Honors College provides a community of bright, fun, and ambitious students, fostering critical thinking and personal development.

Endowment$114,945,955
Avg faculty salary$90,432

Murray State University FAQ

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Murray State University admits about 86% of applicants. But your real odds are personal. They depend on your grades, scores, and story. Answer a few quick questions and FindU calculates your match.

76%Your chances
Match
Your SAT 1380Admit range 1230–1480
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