School Details
Murray State University is a public four-year university located in Murray, Kentucky. MSU was founded in 1922 as Murray State Normal School by the State Board of Education. Today it offers more than 140 programs. Murray State University is comprised of the following colleges and schools:
- Jesse D. Jones College of Science, Engineering & Technology
- Hutson School of Agriculture
- School of Nursing & Health Professions
- Arthur J. Bauernfeind College of Business
- College of Education & Human Services
- College of Humanities & Fine Arts
- Honors College
Murray State University awards certificates, associate’s degrees, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctoral degrees. MSU online degrees are available for undergraduate and graduate students and include postgraduate degrees. There are also non-degree options available online. These online programs allow you to earn a degree around your schedule and lifestyle.
Accreditation & Licensing
Murray State University is accredited by:
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
All Programs
Art & Liberal Arts
This degree is intended for adult learners who are ready to jump back into education with the convenience of online learning. Murray State’s AA in General Studies enables you to complete your general education credits before pursuing a bachelor’s degree in the liberal arts. Subjects covered include:
- Oral & written communication
- Global awareness
- Scientific inquiry & quantitative skills
Build your degree across subjects at Murray State. This online Bachelor of Integrated Studies enables you to broaden your skillset and knowledge base across electives that might not be part of one specific major. You can pursue your interests and choose classes that align with your personal and career goals.
This advanced degree is intended for teachers in secondary and post-secondary environments. The beauty of this doctorate is that, not only is the curriculum available entirely online, but it is based upon what teachers do every day. The foundation of this Murray State program is bound within pedagogical framework with the goal of encouraging students to perform in the classroom and beyond. Doctoral candidates have four specializations to choose from:
- Literacy
- Literature
- Writing
- Language
Want to learn to communicate more strategically to hit target audiences? Consider MSU’s Master of Mass Communication, either an MA or MS, that is available entirely online. You will learn media theory and best practices behind effective delivery. This degree can boost careers in: advertising, journalism, marketing, public relations, social media management, branding and more.
Business
Murray State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Business Administration. Students will be prepared with a broad understanding of the various disciplines within business.
Murray State University offers an online Bachelor of Science in Logistics & Supply Chain Management degree. Students will be prepared to manage and coordinate materials, information, and products within organizations.
The online Certificate in Human Development and Leadership is designed for individuals working in positions such as administrative, program development, or direct services in a wide range of settings who want to move toward a greater leadership role. Courses focus on the self, working with diverse individuals and cultures, developing an understanding of and learning how to utilize assessments in non-clinical settings, and understanding the process of working in and with groups.
With an online MBA from Murray State, you will learn within one of longest accredited programs available. This graduate degree seeks to give you a global business perspective, as you learn from the same professors online who teach on campus. You can pursue Murry State’s MBA, even if you do not possess an undergraduate degree in business by fulfilling your pre-requisites online through a number of avenues including Ivy Software. This MBA degree is 100% online, with a flexible schedule that will fit your outside obligations, no matter what time of day you choose to study.
Murry State’s online MBA concentration in Business Analytics gives you the insight and understanding to use data and information systems in making strategic business decisions. This 100% online advanced degree is one of the longest accredited programs available. Classes are accessible 24/7, to accommodate your learning schedule. The online courses of Murray State’s MBA in Business Analytics include:
- Software development
- Data management
- Project management
- Advanced business analytics
If you want to apply innovative business solutions to development projects, consider an online MBA in Economic Development from Murray State University. This 100% online program gives you added flexibility to learn around your personal and professional obligations. Murry State’s MBA degree is a long-time accredited program, one of the longest available in fact. Courses in the online Economic Development concentration may include:
- Introduction to economic development
- Economic development methods
- Economic development finance
- Cost benefit analysis
Because organizations need to look at financial bottom-lines when making strategic decisions, an online MBA in Finance will put you at the center of the decision-making process. Murry State’s MBA program has been accredited for decades. Built upon a solid foundation in core business disciplines, your online Finance concentration electives may include:
- Capital investment analysis
- Risk management
- Financial models
- Portfolio management and theory
- Investment management business
With the world’s major economic markets becoming more entwined every day, an online MBA in Global Communications from Murray State can take your career to a whole new level. You can work in the US, or take your career abroad, it’s up to you. This online graduate degree, taught by the same professors who teach on campus, gives you the element of flexibility to learn where and when you want. Resting upon a core business curriculum, Murray State’s MBA in Global Communications offers electives such as:
- Communicating in the international business environment
- Communication technology
- Conflict resolution
- Strategic communication
- Organizational learning and dialogue
In today’s technical world, door-to-door sales and cold-calling are outdated. Get your marketing career updated and out of the door with Murray State’s online MBA in Marketing. You will study sales and marketing through digital and other media, while learning what it takes to earn and maintain market share in a world full of technology. This 100% online graduate degree allows you the flexibility to learn any where and any time that fits your schedule. In addition to digital marketing, Murray State’s Marketing MBA online includes subjects such as:
- Advertising
- Media law
- New project development
- Consumer behavior
- Global marketing
The online Master of Public Administration is ideal for individuals working full-time within public administration and looking to develop the skills to become leaders or succeed in management roles. It prepares students to lead in multiple areas within federal, state, and local governments.
This online Public Administration degree aligns with the guiding principles of the Network of School of Public Policy, Affairs, and Administration (NASPAA). Courses include Research Methods, Public Policy Analysis, Public Budgeting and Finance, Human Resources Administration, and Healthcare Policy. Students can use electives to customize the program to best suit their future career goals.
Concentrations are available in areas including:
- Economic Development
- Healthcare Administration
- Public and Community Health
- General
- Public Management
The online Master of Science in Human Development and Leadership is designed to meet the needs of a broad spectrum of human service professionals through courses focusing on understanding human development and how to apply that knowledge in leadership. Courses include leadership, group development, human development, diversity, research, legal and ethical issues, and interpersonal processes. Graduates are prepared to work in administration, program development, and direct service positions in a wide range of settings.
In order to advance in any occupation, you will need strong communication skills and an understanding of how to manage others. The Master of Science in Organizational Communication and Leadership provides you with the essentials you need to take your career to the next level.
With a flexible, fully online program, you will be able to prepare for your next steps while continuing to work in your current role. Coursework will prepare you to lead teams in the workplace, negotiate conflicts, train new employees, and develop sales strategies. The competencies gained from this online communications degree will benefit you in whatever career path you choose.
Graduates can apply their knowledge to roles such as:
- Business manager
- Marketing coordinator
- Sales specialist
- Training director
- Public relations director
- Human resources manager
- Recruiter
Computer Science & IT
This online BS in Telecommunication Systems Management is a bachelor completion program through Murray State for the last two years of the program. Applicants should hold an associate’s from the Kentucky Community & Technical College System (KCTCS). Students take upper level technical communication and IT coursework. There are three areas of emphasis to choose from in this online telecommunications degree:
- Wireless
- Network Security
- System Administration
GIS and its affiliated technology is growing rapidly. You can broaden your career opportunities, with this undergraduate online Certificate in GIS from Murray State. Using industry-standards as a basis, you’ll learn data collection, analytics, visualization and interpretation in this program. You’ll also gain hands-on experience through projects and GIScience applications, with coursework like:
- Remote Sensing
- Biological Applications in GIS
- Decision Support Technologies
As a complement to your professional experience, this online Graduate Certificate in Geospatial Data Science can enhance your career. You’ll learn the latest methodologies for data manipulation, modeling and analysis based upon current industry standards and trends. Electives are a part of this online GIS curriculum, with offerings such as:
- Geospatial Tools in Business
- Manager’s Guide to Database
- Information System Security
The aim of this online MSIS is to prepare you for management positions in multiple industries. As an AACSB-accredited program, you can be assured that you’ll gain a strong foundation in systems knowledge. Areas cover data analysis, software development, architecture, business analytics and more. In fact, there are specialized tracks in Business Analytics and Information Security. Core classes in this online IS master’s usually include:
- ERP
- Decision Support & Expert Systems
- Telecommunications Project Management
Criminal Justice, Safety & Law
The online MBA in Cybersecurity prepares you to oversee data security systems and teams of IT professionals. The policies and solutions you implement as a Cybersecurity specialist can help keep your organization safe from many of the technological threats that exist today.
Online Business Administration degree coursework provides you with a well-rounded understanding of the business world, with courses in areas including accounting, marketing, business analytics, and more. Cybersecurity coursework ensures you are confident in your ability to make business decisions regarding information system security, mitigating security breaches, and protecting your company’s software and information. A capstone course focuses on strategic management.
Graduates will be well qualified for positions including:
- Security analyst
- Security auditor
- Cybersecurity policy advisor
- Director of privacy
- Director of compliance
Education
This online library science degree teaches the professional skills that are needed for library media education career paths. Learn to provide a learning environment where students are engaged in learning and classroom teachers collaborate to enrich their curriculum. This program offers coursework on leadership and literacy related to 21st-century digital libraries. Your most important roles will be to teach students to use technology and to share your love of literature and lifelong learning.
There are two paths available in this online library science degree. There is one for Certified teachers and then one that is for those who have a bachelor’s degree or are non-certified.
Advance your knowledge and career with this online masters in higher education. This program is designed for secondary school professionals and college personnel. Become an emerging leader and a transformational practitioner of higher education and student affairs. This cohort-based degree creates influential leaders who understand the comprehensive nature of higher education and can apply alternative solutions to contemporary issues within the field.
The curriculum consists of such courses as:
- Research
- Administration
- Developmental Theory
- Diversity Issues
- Legal & Ethical Issues
Enroll in ESL degrees online and advance professional opportunities. This program is designed for working professionals who wish to learn more about how other cultures learn the English language. The curriculum includes instruction and experiences that contribute directly to competencies in linguistics, language pedagogy, assessment, and culture.
These ESL degrees online are taught by doctorally-prepared faculty with degrees in linguistics, second-language teaching, and related fields. They will prepare you for a career teaching English in secondary schools and colleges all over the world, in industry positions in training positions for non-English speaking employees, or in a community college and university teaching pre-college English programs for international students.
Enroll in online teaching degrees and advance professional opportunities. The curriculum is available online, so you can boost your education and continue your career without interruption. In fact, this program is self-paced and has a very generous timeframe for completion.
With this online teaching degree, you will learn to encourage and motivate students. The curriculum likely consists of such courses as:
- Program Planning and Evaluation
- Philosophy of Career and Technical Education
- Organization and Administration of Career and Technical Education
- Advanced Instructional Strategies in Career and Technical Education
- Advanced Classroom Assessment in Career and Technical Education
Engineering
This online manufacturing engineering bachelor’s degree is geared toward professionals who want to further their skills in manufacturing engineering as they prepare for a career in various manufacturing industries. Gain skills in industrial design and develop manufacturing processes, procedures, and equipment that turn design ideas into real products. Study such areas as:
- Computer Numerical Control (CNC)
- Computer-Aided Design and Manufacturing (CAD/CAM)
- Fluid Power
- Industrial Supervision
- Quality Control
This completion program works in partnership with community colleges to allow students to complete general education credits to transfer into Murray State. Added flexibility supports students who desire to work while earning their degree.
Healthcare
The US healthcare environment is one of constant change. To be a strong leader and administrator in this climate, you have to think on your feet and be able to make sound decisions so that the quality of patient services and care is not compromised. An online MBA in Health Administration from Murray State University will give you the business knowledge and skills to make a positive impact on your medical setting. This 100% online program comes with the element of flexibility, so that you can earn your graduate degree while working full-time. Murray State’s Health Administration concentration covers subjects such as:
- Healthcare planning
- Financial aspects of health service organizations
- Healthcare administration and management
- Healthcare delivery systems
Math & Science
The online Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Science program is flexible, allowing students to study when and where it is convenient for them without forcing them to choose between their educations and their families and jobs. This program prepares students for careers as precision agriculture technicians, agricultural extension agents, agricultural service technicians, in agricultural sales, and in many other careers related to emerging technologies in agriculture.
Courses may include:
- Research in Agriculture
- Farm Management
- Animal Nutrition
- Principles of Agribusiness Management
- Advanced Soil Fertility
Study various disciplines of agriculture with this online agriculture master’s degree. It is designed for professional agricultural personnel who want to gain an education at the graduate level or prepare for a degree at the doctoral level.
Customize your online agriculture degree with the aid of an advisor so you complete courses that match your goals. There are two main areas of concentration: agricultural science and agricultural education. Choose from such options as:
- Agribusiness Economics
- Agricultural Education
- Sustainable Agriculture
- Veterinary Hospital Management
This flexible program allows students to pursue their goals even if they are place-bound by family, career, or military commitments and/or do not have institutions of higher learning near where they are located.
Nursing
The online RN to BSN degree completion program from Murray State University is designed to provide students with a liberal, generalist education and prepare them for career advancements and/or graduate study. Graduates of this program are able to:
- Communicate and collaborate effectively through oral, written, and technological methods
- Apply scientific based methods to understand the basis for best nursing practices and new knowledge related to health care
- Make evidence-based, logical decisions related to patient care
- Apply nursing science and technology in solving problems in the changing health care system
- Appreciate the historical, political, theoretical, and artistic traditions of nursing
- Practice with cultural sensitivity and an understanding of ethical issues in health care
- Advocate to advance the profession and health care
- Recognize the need to balance professional and lifestyle behaviors
- Perform entry level nursing skills in a safe, competent, and professional manner
- Pursue continuous learning experiences to enhance one's career and to adapt to the continuously changing world of health care
The online DNP degree program from Murray State University provides professional nurses with the extended knowledge and skills required to advance in their careers. The curriculum builds on the traditional MSN education with a focus on:
- Evidence-based practice
- Quality improvement
- Health policy
- Ethics
- Leadership, management, and organization of health systems
Psychology & Human Services
From your local community to societies across the globe, you’ll learn how to become an effective advocate for social change with this online Human Services degree. Whether you choose the BA or BS path at Murray State, you’ll gain the skills and knowledge to work in various areas of human services, from probation case management to human trafficking intervention. This online Human Services program has semester-long online courses which will allow you to pace yourself, as you earn your degree and balance life, work and school. Sample classes include:
- Leadership and Group Skills
- Diversity and Advocacy in Human Services
- Family Issues and Guidance