Murray State vs Morehead State

Murray State University and Morehead State University, both esteemed public universities in Kentucky, offer distinct educational experiences. Murray State boasts a higher acceptance rate, making it a more accessible option for students. Morehead State, on the other hand, has a slightly higher graduation rate, indicating a strong commitment to student success. While both universities offer a diverse range of majors, Murray State excels in fields like business and nursing, while Morehead State shines in areas such as education and social work. Explore the detailed comparison table to delve into further differences, including student body demographics, tuition fees, and campus life, to determine which university aligns best with your academic aspirations and personal preferences.
Morehead State University logo

Morehead State University

Murray State University logo

Murray State University

Overview

Location Morehead, Kentucky Murray, Kentucky
Campus setting Town: Remote Town: Remote
College type 4 year 4 year
Control/business model Public Public
Calendar system Semester Semester
Degrees offered Undergraduate and Graduate Undergraduate and Graduate
Students retention rate 70.0% 75.0%
Common app member Yes No
Religious affiliation

Admission

Acceptance rate 89.8% 85.2%
Application fees
Undergraduate: $30

Graduate: $30
Undergraduate: $40

Graduate: $40
SAT range N/A 960 - 1200
ACT range N/A 20 - 27
Students submitting SAT score 16.0%
Students submitting ACT score 86.0%
Total number of applicants 6,922 9,144
Total number of admissions given out 6,218 7,787
Admitted students who chose to enroll 1,184 1,395
Yield rate 19.0% 17.9%
Test scores (SAT/ACT) N/A N/A
High school GPA Required Required
Recommendation letters Not required Not required
High school transcript Not required Not required
English proficiency test (e.g. TOEFL) Required Required

Tuition and Fees

Sticker price
In state: $23,984

Out of state: $28,628
In state: $26,219

Out of state: $35,495
Average net price $10,471 $11,237
Tuition
In state: $9,082

Out of state: $13,726
In state: $8,040

Out of state: $17,316
Room & board $10,040
Room/dormitory: $5,538

Meal plan: $4,330
Available payment plans
  • Tuition payment plan
  • Tuition payment plan

Financial Aid

Students receiving financial aid

(Grants & scholarships)

97.0%
Average amount $10,376
99.0%
Average amount $11,753
Students receiving federal student loan 55.0%
Average amount $4,964
47.0%
Average amount $6,997
Students taking out private loans 5.0%
Average amount $9,199
7.0%
Average amount $10,075

Students and Campus

Undergraduate students 8,312
Men 38.7% Women 61.3%
7,651
Men 37.5% Women 62.5%
Graduate students 670
Men 37.6% Women 62.4%
1,763
Men 35.1% Women 64.9%
Racial/ethnic diversity
Very Low
Very Low
Out-of-state students N/A N/A
International students 0.7% 5.4%
Campus local/setting Town: Remote Town: Remote
Dormitory capacity 3,315 3,064
First year students are required to live on campus? No No
Top 5 states where most U.S. students come from Ohio Tennessee Virginia Illinois Illinois Tennessee Indiana Missouri

Academics

Popular study areas
  • Education
  • Health Professions
  • Business
  • Liberal Arts
  • Agriculture
  • Health Professions
  • Education
  • Business
  • Agriculture
  • Engineering Technologies
Students to faculty ratio 15:1 16:1
Institutional accreditation Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

Outcome

Graduation rate 44.8% 55.9%
Dropout rate 53.6% 42.8%
Transferred out N/A N/A
Alumni salary by major (Top 10)
Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $57,256
  • Year 2: $61,516
  • Year 3: $67,934
Engineering Technology, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $55,465
  • Year 2: $56,544
  • Year 3: $63,288
Curriculum and Instruction (Graduate/Professional Certificates)
  • Year 1: $53,198
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $61,548
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $57,164
  • Year 2: $59,919
  • Year 3: $59,589
Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $57,855
  • Year 2: $55,512
  • Year 3: $56,127
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Associate's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $56,482
  • Year 2: $54,430
  • Year 3: $52,630
Computer and Information Sciences, General (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,023
  • Year 2: $41,565
  • Year 3: $52,250
Engineering-Related Fields (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $66,090
  • Year 2: $57,318
  • Year 3: $52,098
Accounting and Related Services (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $34,707
  • Year 2: $35,823
  • Year 3: $42,105
Student Counseling and Personnel Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $40,028
  • Year 2: $40,481
  • Year 3: $42,017
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: N/A
  • Year 2: $162,817
  • Year 3: $178,780
Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $68,792
  • Year 2: $79,473
  • Year 3: $88,757
Quality Control and Safety Technologies/Technicians (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $65,448
  • Year 2: $66,969
  • Year 3: $69,761
Computer Science (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $43,888
  • Year 2: $53,775
  • Year 3: $66,008
Business/Commerce, General (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $53,643
  • Year 2: $59,485
  • Year 3: $65,410
Civil Engineering Technologies/Technicians (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $58,121
  • Year 2: $55,964
  • Year 3: $59,977
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $54,148
  • Year 2: $58,142
  • Year 3: $55,771
Educational Administration and Supervision (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $44,974
  • Year 2: $59,485
  • Year 3: $54,238
Communication Disorders Sciences and Services (Master's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $51,117
  • Year 2: $56,641
  • Year 3: $52,217
Information Science/Studies (Bachelor's Degrees)
  • Year 1: $46,964
  • Year 2: $50,856
  • Year 3: $50,840

Frequently Asked Questions


  • What are the primary differences in location and campus environment between Murray State University and Morehead State University?

    Murray State University is located in Murray, Kentucky, a smaller, more rural town, offering a close-knit campus environment. Morehead State University is situated in Morehead, Kentucky, also a smaller town, but with a slightly more mountainous and outdoor-recreation-focused setting. Both offer a traditional college town experience, but Murray State generally has a slightly flatter landscape and a more agricultural feel, while Morehead State is closer to the Daniel Boone National Forest, appealing to students interested in outdoor activities.

  • How do the academic programs compare at Murray State and Morehead State?

    Both universities offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Murray State is known for its strong programs in agriculture, education, and business. Morehead State has notable programs in aerospace engineering, education, and the arts. The specific strengths of each institution can vary, so it's important to research the programs that align with your academic interests. Consider the faculty expertise, research opportunities, and program rankings when making your decision.

  • What is the cost of attendance like at Murray State versus Morehead State?

    The cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is generally comparable between Murray State and Morehead State. However, specific costs can fluctuate annually. It's recommended to check the official university websites for the most up-to-date tuition and fee information. Both universities offer financial aid, scholarships, and payment plans to help make education more affordable. Consider factors like in-state versus out-of-state tuition rates and the availability of scholarships when comparing costs.

  • How do the student life and extracurricular activities differ at Murray State and Morehead State?

    Both universities offer a vibrant student life with numerous clubs, organizations, and activities. Murray State has a strong Greek life presence and a focus on traditional campus events. Morehead State also has a diverse range of student organizations, with a particular emphasis on outdoor recreation and activities related to its location near the Daniel Boone National Forest. The specific clubs and activities available will vary, so explore the student life websites of each university to see which aligns with your interests.

  • What are the athletic programs like at Murray State and Morehead State?

    Both universities have competitive athletic programs. Murray State is a member of the NCAA Division I and is known for its basketball program, among other sports. Morehead State also competes in NCAA Division I and has strong programs in basketball, football, and other sports. The level of competition and the specific sports offered are similar, but the fan base and campus culture surrounding athletics may differ. Check the athletic websites for schedules, scores, and team information.

  • How do the campus facilities and resources compare at Murray State and Morehead State?

    Both universities provide modern campus facilities and resources to support student success. Murray State has recently renovated its campus and offers updated academic buildings, libraries, and recreational facilities. Morehead State has also invested in its campus infrastructure, providing students with access to state-of-the-art classrooms, labs, and student support services. The specific amenities and resources available may vary, so consider what is most important to you, such as library resources, technology access, and recreational facilities.

  • What are the career services and job placement rates like at Murray State and Morehead State?

    Both universities offer career services to assist students with career planning, resume writing, and job placement. They host career fairs, provide internship opportunities, and offer guidance on job searching. While specific job placement rates can fluctuate, both universities have established networks with employers in the region and beyond. The effectiveness of career services often depends on the student's engagement and proactive approach to career development. Research the specific career services offered by each university to see which best suits your needs.

  • What is the overall campus culture and atmosphere like at Murray State and Morehead State?

    Both universities foster a welcoming and supportive campus culture. Murray State is known for its friendly atmosphere and strong sense of community. Morehead State also emphasizes a close-knit community, with a focus on outdoor recreation and a connection to the surrounding natural environment. The overall atmosphere can be subjective and depends on individual preferences, so visiting both campuses and interacting with current students can help you determine which environment feels like the best fit for you.

  • How do the admission requirements differ between Murray State and Morehead State?

    The admission requirements for both universities are generally similar, including high school transcripts, ACT/SAT scores (though test-optional policies may be in place), and potentially letters of recommendation. However, specific requirements, such as minimum GPA or test score thresholds, may vary slightly. It's essential to check the official admissions websites of both Murray State and Morehead State for the most up-to-date and accurate information on admission requirements and deadlines.

  • Which university is better for a student interested in outdoor recreation?

    Morehead State University is generally considered a better choice for students interested in outdoor recreation due to its proximity to the Daniel Boone National Forest and the availability of related programs and activities. While Murray State offers some outdoor opportunities, Morehead State's location and focus on outdoor pursuits make it a more suitable option for students with a strong interest in this area.

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