Mission and Statement of Purpose

Murray State University serves as a nationally recognized residential comprehensive university, offering high-quality baccalaureate and master’s degree programs. Academic programs are offered in the core areas of arts and sciences, agriculture, business, health and human services, teacher education, communications, engineering, and applied technologies. Teaching, research, and service excellence are core values and guiding principles that promote economic development and the well-being of the citizens of the Commonwealth of Kentucky and the region.

Murray State University places a high premium on academic outreach, collaborative relationships with alumni, the public schools, business and industry, governmental agencies, and other colleges and universities at home and abroad.

Murray State University prepares graduates to function in a culturally diverse, technologically oriented society and increasingly interdependent world. The university is committed to international education as an integral dimension of the university experience.

Murray State University emphasizes student-centered learning and educational experiences that include first year experience, the honors program, internships, study-abroad programs, service learning, research and creative projects, residential colleges, and student organizations.

In sum, Murray State University fosters an exciting and challenging learning environment.

Value Statements

* Accessibility
Murray State values broad, equal, and affordable educational access for all.
* Academic Freedom
Murray State values the generation and free exchange of ideas in a peaceful and orderly environment that encourages communication and the resolution of differences.
* Accountability
Murray State values a comprehensive accountability system through outcomes assessment and institutional effectiveness, supporting our primary mission as a university.
* Diversity
Murray State values attracting, developing, and maintaining a diverse, high-quality faculty, staff, and student body.
* Excellence
Murray State values a sustained commitment to teaching, research, and service excellence.
* Integrity
Murray State values an environment that demands high levels of professional and academic ethics.
* Nurturing Environment
Murray State values a safe, friendly, and supportive campus and community environment.
* Shared Governance
Murray State values a culture of shared governance, open communication, and understanding among administration, faculty, staff, and students.
* Student-Centered Learning
Murray State values an environment that fosters the engagement of the student in the learning process both in and beyond the classroom.