Murray State University is a public university in Murray, a small town in western Kentucky near Kentucky Lake. It's known for agriculture, nursing, business, engineering technology and a strong computer science and cybersecurity programme. Tuition is low and the town is quiet and safe.
Murray, Kentucky, United States
Official website: murraystate.edu
Top 20 (U.S. News)
1922 in Murray
NSA-designated Center of Academic Excellence
$14,000 – $20,000
International students, undergraduate and graduate
$10,000 – $13,000
Rent, food and local transport
Approximate figures for 2026-27, please verify. Fees change every year and vary by course, so check the latest amount on murraystate.edu before you apply.
MS Computer Science
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.0, TOEFL: 71
MS Cybersecurity Management
Masters DegreeDuration
24 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.0, TOEFL: 71
MBA
Masters DegreeDuration
18 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.0, TOEFL: 71
BS Agriculture
Bachelors DegreeDuration
48 Months
Intake
Aug, Jan
Exam Score
IELTS: 6.0, TOEFL: 61
Low tuition for a well-ranked regional university.
Agriculture with university farms.
Kentucky Lake for boating and fishing.
Graduates join employers across Kentucky and Tennessee.
STEM master's graduates can work in the US for up to three years on OPT.
Agriculture alumni work in farming and agribusiness.
Undergrad
Rolling
Postgrad
Rolling
Undergrad
Rolling
Postgrad
Rolling
The campus sits in the small town of Murray with residence halls and a big arena.
Murray is quiet and very affordable. Nashville is about two hours away.
Form I-20 issued by Murray State University
Proof of funds for one academic year
SEVIS I-901 fee payment receipt
Completed DS-160 online application
US embassy or consulate interview
Passport valid six months beyond stay
Murray State reviews applications on a rolling basis. Apply by 1 June for fall or 1 November for spring.
Most programmes start in fall and spring.
You'll need an F-1 visa. Once you accept your offer and send proof of funding, Murray State University issues the Form I-20. After that it's the SEVIS fee, the DS-160 form and an interview at a US embassy or consulate.
Computer science, cybersecurity management, the MBA and agriculture are popular. Graduate programmes need a bachelor's degree and IELTS 6.0.
Murray State offers international scholarships that reduce tuition. Check the financial aid page.
