| For more than three-quarters of a century Murray State
University has served students from the region, the nation, and the world.
Founded in 1922, the university has grown from an enrollment of 202 students
to over 10,000 today. Students receive individual attention from a teaching
faculty which numbers 390. Murray State University has consistently ranked
among the top Southern regional and liberal arts colleges in U.S. News
& World Report's annual publication, America's Best Colleges.
MSU is also considered a "Best Deal" by Kiplinger's Personal Finance
and a "Hidden Treasure" by Kaplan, Inc.
Recognition of the quality of MSU programs is reflected
in accreditations. Murray State has been continuously accredited by the
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) since 1928. Program
accreditations have also been attained in art, chemistry, civil engineering
and environmental engineering technology programs, communication disorders,
counseling, dietetics, engineering physics, journalism and mass communications,
music, nursing, occupational safety and health, school administration,
social work, speech-language pathology, teacher education, and veterinary
technology, as well as several business programs.
Located in the Jackson Purchase lake area of west Kentucky,
Murray State is a state-assisted comprehensive university with five academic
colleges. The university's 236-acre main campus is in Murray, a city of
16,600.
The main campus comprises 72 major buildings, including
classroom and office buildings and two libraries. The Waterfield Library
houses the circulating collection, reference sources, government documents,
microforms and periodicals. The historic Pogue Library contains special
materials relating to the history and culture of west Kentucky and the
region.
Other notable campus facilities and programs providing
high-quality instruction and regional service include:
The Susan E. Bauernfeind Student Recreation and Wellness
Center offers the University Community, as well as alumni and family members,
recreational and educational opportunities that teach the values of wellness.
This facility contributes to the quality of the MSU experience, enhances
personal development, and provides opportunities for cultural and social
interaction.
A Program of Distinction in Telecommunications Systems
Management offering associate, bachelors and masters
degrees in the growing field of telecommunications.
The Martha Layne Collins Center for Technology, housing
programs in industrial and engineering technology and occupational safety
and health, and providing regional industries and businesses with training,
consulting services and research opportunities.
The Center of Excellence for Reservoir Research, conducting
interdisciplinary long-term studies of rivers and reservoirs and assisting
with management and protection of waterways and natural ecosystems.
The Mid-America Remote Sensing Center (MARC), a component
of the Center of Excellence, studying satellite-generated data for resource
management and developing a geographic information system for Kentucky
Lake and its surrounding environments.
The Chemical Services Laboratory, another component
of the Center of Excellence, equipped with sophisticated instrumentation
for environmental analytical chemistry as well as regional laboratory service
for industries, institutions and individuals.
The Price Doyle Fine Arts Center, offering excellent
facilities for fine arts programming and featuring year-round art exhibitions,
a variety of musical performances, and a season of full-scale theatre productions.
Flourishing business administration programs, offering
classes on campus, via the Internet, at three off-campus sites and at several
others through interactive television, and training a significant number
of international students.
An Institute of International Studies featuring several
study-abroad opportunities, exchange programs for faculty and students,
an active international student organization, and a highly successful program
in English as a Second Language.
The Interactive Telecommunications Network, operated
by the Center for Continuing Education and Academic Outreach, linking several
sites with full duplex video and audio capability to deliver both credit
and noncredit programs among several locations simultaneously.
WKMS-FM, a National Public Radio-affiliated 100,000-watt
station with a listening audience in five states, and Channel 11, the university's
student run cable channel.
Listed with the National Registry of Historic Sites,
the Wrather West Kentucky Museum, offers programs, exhibits and collections
of west Kentucky history, as well as, traveling exhibits.
Three agricultural laboratory farms totalling 356 acres,
an animal health technology facility, and the West Kentucky Exposition
Center are all within a mile of campus. Regional veterinarians and animal
owners benefit from the animal disease diagnostic services provided at
the university's Breathitt Veterinary Center in nearby Hopkinsville, Kentucky;
in addition, animal health technology students receive instruction, conduct
research, and perform field service investigations at the accredited facility.
Ten miles east of campus, on Kentucky Lake, is the Hancock
Biological Station, one of the finest centers of its kind in the country.
HBS is the field research home for the Center of Excellence for Reservoir
Research and the Ecological Consortium of Mid-America; its facilities (including
housing) are available year-round to ecosystem scientists. Another off-campus
facility is Murphy's Pond, a 279-acre primitive wildlife habitat 30 miles
west of campus, preserved in its natural state and used as both a biological
laboratory and a public outdoor recreational area.
Murray State University has a commitment to extend its
educational programs throughout the region. Off-campus courses are available
at a number of sites including Paducah, Fort Campbell, Henderson, Hopkinsville,
and Madisonville. In addition to teaching courses on-site at these locations,
the university provides a variety of distance learning alternatives for
students who may not be able to attend classes on the main campus, including
interactive television courses, Web courses, correspondence study, and
Kentucky Educational Television telecourses.
The international dimension of the university's offerings
has been dramatically broadened in recent years. In addition to summer
study-abroad programs in several countries, direct exchange programs have
been developed for students and faculty with universities on five continents
Africa, Asia, Australia, Central America and Europe. On campus, the English
as a Second Language program prepares nonnative speakers of English for
full-time study and for future professional careers.
In its ninth decade of service, Murray State University's
mission focuses on undergraduate, graduate and professional instruction
and continuing education programs as well as enhancement of the educational,
economic, and cultural opportunities of the people of west Kentucky.
Visiting the University
Visitors are enthusiastically welcomed at Murray State
and encouraged to tour the campus, visit the residential colleges and talk
with faculty members and students. Campus tours and specific appointments
with faculty or administrators may be arranged by calling the School Relations
Office at 800-272-4MSU, ext. 1, or writing to School Relations Office,
Murray State University, 500 Sparks Hall, Murray KY 42071-3312. Murray
State's website may be accessed at www.murraystate.edu. During the fall
and spring semesters, office hours are 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (CST) Monday
through Friday, and at 10:00 a.m. on selected Saturdays. During the summer
sessions, office hours vary.
Mission
The following mission statement was adopted by the
Murray State University Board of Regents on September 26, 2003.
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.
Values
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.
Characteristics of the
Murray State University Graduate
The excellence of a university's baccalaureate program
is ultimately best demonstrated by the qualities, characteristics, and
performance of its graduates. Murray State University sets as its goal
a baccalaureate experience that ensures graduates who:
·Engage in mature, independent, and creative thought
and express that thought effectively in oral and written communication;
·Understand and apply the critical and scientific
methodologies that academic disciplines employ to discover knowledge and
ascertain its validity;
·Apply sound standards of information gathering,
analysis, and evaluation to reach logical decisions;
·Understand the roles and applications of science
and technology in the solution of the problems of a changing world;
·Demonstrate a critical understanding of the world's
historical, literary, philosophical, and artistic traditions;
·Understand the dynamics of cultural diversity,
of competing economic and political systems, and of complex moral and ethical
issues;
·Understand the importance of and engage in ethical
behavior and responsible citizenship;
·Understand the importance of the behaviors necessary
to maintain a healthy lifestyle;
·Demonstrate mastery of a chosen field of study,
and
·Value intellectual pursuit and continuous learning
in a changing world.
Organization of the University
The government of the university is vested in the Board
of Regents of Murray State University, a corporate body established by
statute and enjoying all immunities, rights, privileges and franchises
of an educational governing body.
The president serves as the chief executive officer of
the university and as such is ultimately responsible to the Board of Regents
for all matters pertaining to the institution. The president reports directly
to the board.
Following the organizational structure established by
the Board of Regents, responsibility for most operational units of the
university is divided between four executive officers who report to the
president: the provost and vice president for academic affairs, the vice
president for administrative services, the vice president for institutional
advancement, and the vice president for student affairs. These four vice
presidents serve as the president's management team, advising the president
on the operation of the university, making recommendations on the establishment
of administrative policy, and executing responsibilities, both individually
and collectively, within the university governance system. The provost
and vice president for academic affairs is the senior vice president and
is responsible for much of the day-to-day operation of the university.
Academic Units
Murray State University is comprised of five academic
colleges and one school. The colleges are Business and Public Affairs,
Education, Health Sciences and Human Services, Humanities and Fine Arts,
and Science, Engineering and Technology. The School of Agriculture completes
the academic structure. Each college/school offers a unique program of
human endeavor with interdisciplinary study among the colleges/school to
provide students broad educational perspectives.
University Libraries
The university librariesthe Harry Lee Waterfield Library
and the Forrest C. Pogue Librarycontain approximately 500,000 resource
materials, including 115,000 bound volumes and approximately 2,500 current
journal and newspaper subscriptions.
Waterfield Library, the main library of the University,
houses the circulating and reference collections, government documents,
microforms, and journals. The Libraries also provide access to numerous
electronic resources supporting all University curricula. Full Internet
search capabilities are available on computers in all three Library facilities;
the Waterfield Library lobby houses a computer lab with 44 computers loaded
with Internet browsers and Microsoft Office software.
In addition, as a service to students who desire directed
instruction in the use of library resources, library faculty teach an information
literacy course, LOR 101: Library Research for Information Literacy.
LOR 101 supports the University's goal of ensuring that each MSU graduate
will "apply sound standards of information gathering, analysis and evaluation
to reach logical decisions." This two-credit-hour course is taught in multiple
sections during each eight-week session in the fall and spring semesters,
with one section offered during the summer.
The reserve collection, housed at Waterfield Library's
Circulation Desk, consists of materials assigned by faculty members for
class use in the library or for a limited checkout period. A patron-initiated
electronic interlibrary loan service for faculty, staff, and students is
maintained for the borrowing of materials from other libraries. Photocopying
services for print and microform materials are available for self-service
use.
The Special Collections Library, located in the Forrest
C. Pogue Library, houses materials relating to the history and culture
of western Kentucky, Tennessee and those states from which the early settlers
of this area came. Its holdings include books, journals, newspapers, state
documents, manuscripts, rare books, prints and paintings, tape recordings,
maps, and microforms. Especially noteworthy are its outstanding collections
of local and regional history, TVA materials, and Civil War materials,
as well as the political papers of Harry Lee Waterfield, Robert A. Everett,
Noble J. Gregory, Edward T. Breathitt, and Frank Albert Stubblefield. Additional
holdings include materials relating to Kentucky authors Irvin S. Cobb and
Jesse Stuart. The Forrest C. Pogue War and Diplomacy Collection, including
personal papers, books and other materials donated by noted historian and
Murray State University graduate Dr. Forrest C. Pogue, is available for
research purposes. The James O. Overby Law Library, located on the lower
level of the Pogue Library, consists of basic legal materials governing
the United States and selected individual states.
International Student Services
International Education Policy. The mission of
Murray State University includes as a priority the commitment to international
education in order to prepare students to function in an increasingly interdependent
world. Through its Institute for International Studies and related efforts,
the university supports and encourages the development of international
content across the curriculum, the provision of opportunities for international
experience for both students and faculty, the active and continuous exploration
of international issues on campus, and the meaningful involvement in the
life of the university of international students and scholars.
Institute for International Studies. The Institute
for International Studies (IIS) was designated in 1998 for the unified
coordination of international programs and activities at Murray State University.
Evolving from the separately created Center for International Programs
(1981) and the English Language Institute (1993), IIS supports Murray State's
commitment to international education as an integral dimension of the university
experience. IIS provides the following services to students, faculty and
the community:
· Assistance to International Students and Scholars.
A full-time international student advisor provides assistance in addressing
the academic, personal, intercultural, and immigration needs of international
students. Additionally, IIS provides students, research scholars and visiting
faculty with orientation programs, immigration advising; and cultural enrichment
activities. The International Student Organization offers an active, caring
community of support for almost 500 students from more than 60 countries.
· Information Clearinghouse. The institute maintains
a library of materials on study, work, research, teaching and travel abroad.
IIS publishes brochures and announcements of study and teaching abroad
opportunities, and newsletters on international programs. An international
speakers bureau serves as a resource to regional public schools in support
of KERA, while events are publicized by press releases and the web site's
calendar.
· Special Program Development. IIS is involved
in initiating special programs with an international emphasis. Internal
and external groups can work to develop programs to support their specific
interests. These have ranged from lecture series to longer curricular programs
designed for language study, ESL training, or professional development.
· Curriculum Support. With IIS support, the university
has also developed and refined a international affairs curriculum on campus,
initiated an English-as-a-Second-Language Program, created professional
development seminars abroad, supported the development of a graduate TESOL
program, and worked toward the creation of degree programs abroad.
· English-as-a-Second Language Program. The ESL
Program prepares nonnative speakers of English for full-time study at Murray
State or other North American schools. Through careful assessment, intensive
instruction, and out-of-class activities such as field trips, seminars,
and a mentoring program, international students receive the personal attention
they need to advance their English skills. For more information, see the
section on International Student Admission in Chapter 2.
· Study Abroad. Through IIS, Murray State University
maintains cooperative agreements with institutions in 10 countries as well
as consortial membership with three organizations, which provide international
experience and education for its students. Each year, through these various
venues, MSU students may select from over 30 study abroad program sites.
Because new programs are always being reviewed and added, students interested
in study abroad may inquire at any time at IIS for information, or they
may visit the Study Abroad Resource Room (170 Woods Hall) at their leisure.
Cooperative Center for Study Abroad (CCSA). As
a member of CCSA, MSU provides several options for study in English-speaking
countries including winter break, summer, and fall semester programs. These
programs involve formal academic coursework, excursions and independent
travel.
International Business Seminars (IBS). Business
students may participate in one of several multi-country business seminars
in Europe. The seminars, offered during winter and summer academic breaks,
focus on marketing and management.
Kentucky Institute for International Studies (KIIS).
Murray State is headquarters of the Kentucky Institute for International
Studies, a consortium. KIIS provides students with several options for
study in non-English speaking countries including summer sessions and semester
sessions in both the fall and spring. These programs involve formal academic
course work, travel, and the option for language study. Students on campus
may visit KIIS offices in 312 Faculty Hall.
Student Affairs
The Division of Student Affairs' primary concern is the
student. This concern encompasses retention, welfare, and growth and development
in all dimensions of student life including educational, vocational, social-cultural,
civility and tolerance, psychological, values clarification, and physical.
The division provides a variety of educational and administrative services,
programs and activities in support of the Strategic Plan of the university.
It is committed to excellence in and the integration of classroom and non-classroom
activities to ensure a supportive living-learning environment for the whole
student.
The guiding concepts for the division are those of human
growth and development, personal discipline, an open, supportive environment,
and the provision of programs, activities and services for personal growth.
Campus Life
Student life on the MSU campus is enriched by an array
of opportunities both inside and outside the classroom. Activities, campus
organizations, extracurricular learning experiences, residential college
life, sports and student services are all designed to complement the academic
focus and complete the university experience.
Activities
Lectures, Recitals, Concerts, and Movies. Outstanding
artists give concerts, lectures, and other programs throughout the year.
Activities range from major speakers, large concerts and local cultural
activities to coffeehouse entertainment. Most activities are free to students
with ID cards. A semester calendar of events may be obtained from the Student
Government Office located in the Curris Center.
Musical Organizations. Students have access to
many musical opportunities on campus. All musical organizations are open
to non-music majors, some through audition. Interested students are encouraged
to contact the Department of Music for information regarding the following
activities: Concert Choir, University Chorale, Chamber Singers, Opera Workshop,
Orchestra, Racer (Marching) Band, Wind Ensemble, Symphonic Band, Pep Band,
Jazz Ensemble, Percussion Ensemble and numerous small chamber music ensembles.
Radio and Television. Participation in productions
of WKMS-FM and MSU-TV 11 is open to interested and qualified students.
Religious Life. Nine campus ministry programs,
many staffed by full-time clergy, and 22 churches in Murray representing
19 different faiths provide rich and diverse opportunities for the student's
spiritual growth and faith enrichment.
Special and Traditional Events. Great Beginnings
Week kicks off the year with a variety of social events. Homecoming is
the most notable and colorful of traditional campus events, featuring a
parade, football game, entertainment, and scores of open houses, receptions,
dances, reunions and special observances. Family Weekend is a special fall
event featuring activities to honor Racer families.
"Campus Lights" is an all-student musical production which
takes place each February. The Miss Murray State Scholarship Pageant is
held early in the spring. Another spring event is the "All Campus Sing,"
in which campus organizations vie for trophies in an outdoor singing competition.
The Senior Breakfast recognizes the achievements of and marks the end of
an era for the university's senior class members. Honors Day, held the
week of Commencement, is a time when the university pauses to pay tribute
to the campus' most outstanding scholars.
Speech and Debate Union. The Union is comprised
of the eight residential college debate societies, the Executive Council
of society captains and officers, the travel team and recruitment team.
Workshops are conducted throughout the year to enhance leadership, analytical,
and communication skills. A formal on-campus debate is held each semester
and cash prizes are awarded to the top participant teams and colleges.
The travel team competes regionally and nationally in all areas of forensics
including debate, informative speaking and interpretive speaking. Officers
visit schools and promote Murray State University and the Union to prospective
students. The Union is open to all students and is housed in the Department
of Organizational Communication within the College of Business and Public
Affairs.
Student Publications. The Murray State News,
the university newspaper, is edited and published by the students of journalism
under the direction of an instructor in journalism. The News is
published weekly while the university is in session. The paper reflects
the life of the university from week to week.
The Shield, the university yearbook issued in the
spring, is published under the advisorship of the Department of Journalism
and Mass Communications. It portrays through pictures and stories the activities
of the university for the year.
Theatre. In addition to the course offerings for
the Department of Theatre and Dance as outlined in the College of Humanities
and Fine Arts, there is a complete schedule of productions offered to the
public. Children's Theatre and student-directed one-act plays are presented
along with regular University Theatre productions. Dance Theatre productions
also are scheduled throughout the year. Participation in these activities
is open to all students.
University Galleries. Throughout the year the Clara
M. Eagle and Curris Center Galleries, integral parts of the Department
of Art, bring to the university campus a number of exhibitions and programs
featuring distinguished artists, historians and critics. Historical and
contemporary exhibitions, works by faculty, students, alumni and area artists,
workshops, demonstrations, and symposia are scheduled continually throughout
the academic year. All exhibitions and presentations are free and open
to the public and to the university community.
Learning Experiences
Murray State University has achieved national recognition
by providing continuing educational opportunities throughout west Kentucky,
utilizing such unique educational resources as Land Between the Lakes,
Murphy's Pond, Savage Cave, Kentucky and Barkley Lakes, and the surrounding
environment.
Special learning opportunities exist through the Forrest
C. Pogue Public History Institute, the Jesse Stuart Creative Writing Symposium,
the Alben Barkley Distinguished Lecture Series, the Clifton Sigsbee Lowry
Distinguished Lecture Series, the Harry M. Sparks Distinguished Lecture
Series in Educational Administration, the Waterfield Center for Business
and Governmental Research, the Distinguished Lecture Series in Business
Administration, the Harry Lee Waterfield Lecture in Government, and the
MSU Presidential Lecture Series.
Murray State's faculty members research, teach, advise
student organizations, and work with students on a personal level to help
them achieve success. The faculty is respected in the higher education
community. Each faculty member is prepared to challenge students in learning
and inspire lifelong self-development.
Student Organizations
Campus organizations provide many opportunities for students
to participate in widely diversified activities. Some of the organizations
are an extension of the classroom and others are special interest, recreational,
social, political or religious groups. Special qualifications are required
for membership in some of the societies, while others are open to all interested
students. A current list of student organizations can be obtained from
the Curris Center Office.
National Honor Societies. National honor societies
at Murray State University are:
Alpha Chi, with membership restricted to the top three
percent of the senior class and the top two percent of the junior class;
Alpha Lambda Delta, for freshmen who achieve a 3.5 academic
standing in their first semester;
Alpha Sigma Lambda, for nontraditional students who
have achieved sophomore status with a GPA of 3.2 or higher;
Gamma Beta Phi, a national service-oriented academic
society selecting members from among the outstanding campus scholars;
Omicron Delta Kappa (ODK), a national leadership fraternity
for junior and senior men and women based on character, scholarship, leadership
and service in campus life;
Phi Eta Sigma, for freshmen, encouraging and rewarding
academic excellence.
Honor Societies, Professional Fraternities and Recognition
Societies. These academic organizations recognize students in their
particular areas of study. Honor societies recognize academic achievement
and leadership, and most have minimum membership requirements such as GPA,
class standing or rank. Recognition societies confer memberships based
on interest and participation, and generally have more liberal membership
requirements. Murray State's academic organizations include: Alpha Delta
Mu (social work), Alpha Epsilon Rho (broadcast journalism), Alpha Kappa
Psi (business), Alpha Mu Gamma (foreign language), Alpha Phi Sigma (criminal
justice), Alpha Zeta (agriculture), Beta Alpha Psi (accounting), Beta Beta
Beta (biology), Beta Gamma Sigma (accounting), Delta Pi Epsilon (business
education), Delta Sigma Rho/Tau Kappa Alpha (speech communication and theatre),
Gamma Beta Phi (political science), Kappa Delta Pi (elementary and secondary
education), Kappa Pi (art), Kappa Omicron Nu (family and consumer studies),
Lambda Alpha Epsilon (criminal justice), Lambda Pi Eta (organizational
communication), Phi Alpha Theta (history), Phi Beta Lambda (business),
Phi Mu Alpha (music), Pi Mu Epsilon (mathematics), Pi Omega Pi (business
education), Pi Phi Delta (theatre), Pi Sigma Alpha (political science),
Psi Chi (psychology), Sigma Alpha Iota (music), Sigma Pi Sigma (physics),
Sigma Theta Tau (nursing).
University/Department Clubs. University/departmental
clubs complement a student's academic education by bringing together students,
faculty and staff to promote leadership, fellowship and scholarship. University/departmental
clubs on the Murray State campus are: Academic Team Association (university-wide),
Accounting Society, Advertising Club, Agriculture Engineering Technology
Club, Agronomy Club, American Home Economics Association, American Humanics
Student Organization, American Industrial Hygiene Association, American
Society of Interior Designers, American Society of Safety Engineers, Animal
Health Technology/Pre-Veterinary Medicine Club, Anthropology/Archaeology
Club, Art Department Design Group, Association for Childhood Educational
International, Association of Engineering, Graphics and Design, Association
of Environmental and Engineering Technology, Association of Students in
Telecommunications Systems Management, College Music Educators National
Conference, Collegiate Future Farmers of America, Data Processing Management
Association, English Student Organization, Euclidean Mathematics Club,
Finance and Economics Club, Foreign Language Club, Horseman's Club, Horticulture
Club, Kentucky Association of Nursing Students, Marketing Club, Murray
State Amateur Radio Club, National Art Education Association, National
Education Association Student Program, National Student Speech-Language-Hearing
Association, Omicron Sigma Kappa (speech communication and theatre), Organization
of Murray Art Students, Physics Activity Club, Pre-Health Professions Club,
Psychology Club, Public Relations Student Society of America, Rodeo Club,
Social Work Club, Society of Manufacturing Engineers, Sock and Buskin,
Student Affiliates of the American Chemical Society, Student Construction
Association, Student Council for Exceptional Children, Student Dietetic
Association, Student Law Association.
Student Government/Leadership Organizations. These
organizations plan and govern student activities and represent the university:
Honors Program Student Council, participating in activities
and governance of the Honors Program;
Judicial Board, a part of the Student Government Association,
which holds hearings in cases involving the SGA constitution and traffic
violation appeals and assists in cases involving the Code of Conduct;
Residential College Association, sponsoring social,
recreational and educational programs and advising the university administration
on the operation of residential colleges and food service;
Student Alumni Association, promoting continuity in
education and acting as liaison for MSU graduates and current students;
Student Ambassadors, assisting in recruitment, hosting
on-campus events, and representing the university;
Student Government Association, voicing student opinion,
promoting cooperative effort and fostering an academic and social climate;
Campus Activities Board, a part of the Student Government
Association, which sponsors annual events as well as movies, lectures and
concerts throughout the year.
Interest Organizations. The following organizations
are primarily special interest or independent religious, social or service
groups: Alliance, Alpha Delta Chi, Alpha Phi Omega, Alternative Spring
Break, Baptist Student Union, Black Student Council, Bowling Club, Campus
Outreach, Chess Club, Chi Alpha, Civitan International, College Republicans,
Epsilon Sigma Alpha, Fencing Club, Gaming Association, Gulf Students Organization,
International Student Organization, Kenpo, Jujitsu and Karate Club, Korean
Students Organization, Latter-Day Saints Student Association, Lutheran
Student Fellowship, Murray Christian Fellowship, Nontraditional Students'
Organization, Peer Educators, Peoples Environmental Awareness Club, United
Methodist Campus Fellowship, University Christian Student Center, Voices
of Praise, Wildlife Society, Young Democrats.
Greek Organizations. The following national social
fraternities have chapters at Murray State and are members of the Interfraternity
Council: Alpha Gamma Rho, Alpha Sigma Phi, Alpha Tau Omega, Lambda Chi
Alpha, Phi Kappa Tau, Pi Kappa Alpha, Sigma Chi, Sigma Phi Epsilon, Sigma
Pi.
The following national social sororities have chapters
at Murray State and are members of the Panhellenic Council: Alpha Delta
Pi, Alpha Gamma Delta, Alpha Omicron Pi, Alpha Sigma Alpha, Sigma Sigma
Sigma.
The following historically black Greek organizations have
chapters at Murray State and are members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council.
Fraternities: Alpha Phi Alpha, Iota Phi Theta, Kappa Alpha Psi, Phi Beta
Sigma. Sororities: Alpha Kappa Alpha, Delta Sigma Theta, Zeta Phi Beta.
The presidents of all Greek chapters meet together monthly
as the All Greek Council. Order of Omega is the honor society for members
of national Greek organizations.
Sports
Intercollegiate Athletics. Murray State is a charter
member of the Ohio Valley Conference and is a Division I member of the
National Collegiate Athletic Association. The Racer athletic teams are
perennial challengers for major honors in the sponsored nine men's sports
and ten women's sports. Rifle is sponsored as a coeducational sport at
MSU. Sponsored sports for the men include football, basketball, baseball,
golf, cross-country, tennis, rifle, indoor track and field, and outdoor
track and field. Intercollegiate competition is available to women in cross-country,
tennis, basketball, rowing, rifle, soccer, golf, indoor track and field,
outdoor track and field, and volleyball.
Statement of Philosophy: As the primary purpose
of the University, the educational experience for the student-athlete will
be stressed at all times, which is to state that, academic achievement
precedes any participation in intercollegiate athletics. Thus, Murray State
University recognizes its athletics program as a substantial adjunct to
the accomplishments of university objectives in education, research and
service. In like manner, the athletics department embraces a wide variety
of interests and believes that intercollegiate athletics offers a more
attractive environment for prospective students seeking admission while
enhancing retention of those students already admitted.
Additionally, athletics fosters a positive atmosphere
for the student body, the university community, the alumni and the regional
community, and as such is greatly affected by the image portrayed by our
student-athletes both on and off the playing surface. Therefore, athletics
has a substantial responsibility and obligation to these constituencies
for outreach and community service coupled with an obligation to the Ohio
Valley Conference as well as the National Collegiate Athletic Association
to adhere to all collectively held principles of ethical conduct and sportsmanship.
To meet both of these primary objectives of athletics
for Murray State University, athletics will seek to recruit student-athletes
who are capable of academic success while providing support and development
opportunities that will allow the physically as well as academically gifted
and talented an environment to express themselves to their maximum potential.
The Murray State University athletics program will be
conducted in a manner that exercises fair and equitable treatment of student-athletes
as well as personnel regardless of gender or race. The department of athletics
will undergo regular and periodic evaluations to maintain its course in
meeting these stated objectives.
Campus Recreation. The Campus Recreation office
is responsible for the management of all recreational sports programming
including intramural sports, sport clubs, and special events. A wide variety
of leagues, such as softball, flag football, volleyball, soccer and basketball,
are offered throughout each semester.
Outdoor Recreation. Murray State students can spend
many hours in the vast recreational area of Kentucky and Barkley Lakes
and the Land Between the Lakes national recreational area, all located
within a short drive from campus. Here students enjoy swimming, fishing,
water skiing, golfing, camping, horseback riding, hiking, and just soaking
up the sun on the beaches.
Murray State University, its officers, agents, and
employees disclaim any responsibility for injury to a student engaged in
an activity not directly supervised by university personnel, and if supervised,
only to the extent permitted by law.
Sport Clubs. Sport clubs at Murray State are both
student- and university-initiated and compete on both an intramural and
an extramural basis. Students can gain valuable organizational and coaching
experiences as well as just healthy fun through participation in a sport
club. Bowling, crew, chess, fencing, soccer, rodeo and volleyball are presently
organized.
Murray State University, its officers, agents, and
employees disclaim any responsibility for injury sustained by a student
participating in a sport club unless the sport is directly supervised by
university personnel, and then only to the extent of the law.
Sports and Physical Fitness Facilities. Murray
State has a great number of facilities to meet the sporting and fitness
needs of faculty, staff and students. The newly constructed Susan E. Bauernfeind
Student Recreation and Wellness Center includes basketball courts, aerobics
studio, free weights, selectorized machines, cardio workout equipment,
swimming pool with whirlpool, racquetball courts, walking/jogging track,
and a café/lounge with Internet access. A multipurpose room is also
available for meetings and classes. In the Carr Health Building/Racer Arena,
there are four racquetball courts, three multipurpose gymnasiums, a gymnastics
room, an indoor jogging track, a swimming pool, and dressing rooms. Outdoor
facilities include four basketball courts, 16 lighted tennis courts, two
sand volleyball courts, and numerous athletic fields for team sports. The
Regional Special Events Center houses a jogging track and numerous courts
for basketball, volleyball, and other indoor activities. The Miller Memorial
Golf Course is available to Murray State students, faculty, and staff as
well as the community. The Curris Center and Hart Residential College each
has fitness centers consisting of cardio-equipment, weight machines and
free weights.
Student Services
Adults Belong in College. ABC provides services
to those students who have had a break in their formal education and who
are entering or reentering college. The services include information about
admission, registration, placement testing, review classes, and campus
services; adults-only orientations; a lounge and resource center located
in Ordway Hall; and NTSO (Nontraditional Students' Organization), a club
for adult students. Alpha Sigma Lambda, a national honor society for adult
students, is also sponsored by ABC. The ABC service, a unit of the Center
for Continuing Education and Academic Outreach, is located on the third
floor of Sparks Hall. The phone number is 270-762-2186 or 1-800-669-7654.
African-American Student Services/Ethnic Programs.
The Office of African-American Student Services/Ethnic Programs was
established to provide ongoing assistance and support to Murray State's
ethnic student population prior to and following their enrollment. The
office serves as a clearinghouse, a referral service, and a liaison among
administration, academic units and the community. For additional information
contact the Office of African-American Student Services/Ethnic Programs
in the Marvin D. Mills Multicultural Center, Room 110 in the Curris Center,
call 270-762-6836 or email the office at aassep@murraystate.edu.
Alumni Association. Membership privileges of the
Murray State University Alumni Association are extended automatically to
all graduates and any individual attending MSU for two consecutive semesters
who did not graduate. Activities sponsored by the Alumni Association include
chapter meetings and receptions, events during Alumni Recognition and Reunion
weekends and Homecoming, and recognition programs such as Distinguished
Professor, Distinguished Researcher, Golden Horseshoe and Distinguished
Alumnus. The Association encourages graduates and attendees to continue
a close relationship with the organization and the University and also
seeks ways to educate future alumni on the various ways they can support
the goals and mission of the University after graduation. The Association's
Parent and Family Connection is a news source that involves parents
and families in university events and activities and provides up-to-date
information concerning students. Interested individuals may telephone 270-762-5600
or 3437, or visit the Alumni Center located adjacent to Roy Stewart Stadium.
Career Services. The mission of the Career Services
Office is to support the institution's purpose of educating individuals
to become productive citizens in society by serving as a liaison between
students, alumni, faculty and the world of work, while providing integrated
career placement services. These services include career counseling, job
search strategies, credential building opportunities and information on
employment trends and
current hiring procedures, which will ultimately result
in meaningful and satisfying employment upon graduation.
An essential part of the job search process is experience.
Through cooperative education and internship opportunities available through
Career Services, students can find the right employment that will add value
to their degree. Several career fair events are designed and sponsored
by the office throughout the year to connect students to employment opportunities.
Career Services also maintains several other opportunities
for students. These include part-time employment for both on and off campus
employers through work-study programs. They also promote the National Student
Exchange program, where students can attend another college or university
for up to one year. Graduate school information is available for students
looking to complete their studies at another university. In addition, services
which are provided to all students, faculty and alumni include: workshops,
seminars, presentations, on-campus and mock interviews, cover letter and
resume assistance, on-line recruiting services, credential referrals, and
individual career counseling.
Choosing a career is one of life's most important decisions.
The Career Services Office provides important career-oriented assistance,
of which "Discover" is the centerpiece. Discover is a complete, computer-based
career information and planning system, which has been designed to meet
career and educational planning needs. It can quickly assess and identify
work-related values and compare those to up-to-date information about occupations.
Individual career counseling and the use of a comprehensive career library
is provided in conjunction with Discover to help students implement a career
action plan. To schedule an appointment, contact Career Services at (270)
762-3735 or stop by 210 Ordway Hall.
Center for Academic Advising. This center advises
all students who have not decided on an academic major. A wide range of
services is provided to help the undeclared student choose a suitable major.
Contact (270) 762-6344 or caa@murraystate.edu.
Community College. Community College. The Community
College, located in Lowry Center, offers the following services for all
Murray State students.
Block Scheduling (with limited availability) English
095 together with Reading 095 and Communications 161 form a block required
for students entering under restricted status. Needs of individual students
are considered and guidance is given by the block instructors. ENG 095
is a three-hour, load-credit course designed to emphasize clear sentence
structure and development of ideas in paragraphs and essays. REA 095, a
one-hour, load-credit course, offers enhancement of basic comprehension
skills, development of critical thinking, and active reading/study strategies
for the assigned readings in ENG 095 and for COM 161 exams. COM 161 is
a three-hour credit course teaching organization and presentation of ideas
through participation in frequent speech activities, which inform, persuade,
and entertain.
Developmental Classes ENGLISH: Students admitted with
restrictions must enroll in ENG 095; all other MSU students with an English
ACT score below 18 must enroll in ENG 100. MATH: All students with a mathematics
score below 18 must enroll in MAT 100; MAT 105 is still strongly recommended
for students with a mathematics score of 18 or 19. READING: Students admitted
with restrictions must enroll in REA 095; all other students with a reading
ACT score below 18 must enroll in REA 100 and REA 120.
Tutoring Program The peer-tutoring program offers assistance
through drop-in study sessions. Sessions are provided for English, math,
world civilizations, biology, chemistry, physics, Spanish and most other
core curriculum courses. Small-group tutoring is provided free of charge
to all students enrolled at the university.
Counseling and Testing Center. Located in the east
wing of Ordway Hall, the center has a full-time staff available for educational,
career and personal counseling. Students with concerns of a personal or
emotional nature should feel free to contact the Counseling and Testing
Center for confidential assistance. Appropriate referrals to additional
mental health services will also be provided to students. The Counseling
Center also extends its counseling and referral services to faculty and
staff through an employee assistance program. Interested faculty and staff
should call the Counseling and Testing Center for more information. You
may also check our website at http://www.murraystate.edu/secsv/ct.htm.
A wide range of admission tests used nationally, such
as the American College Test (ACT), Graduate Record Examination (GRE),
and College Level Examination Program (CLEP) series, are available to students
through the testing service. In addition, appropriate tests to assist students
with career exploration and self-understanding are available. We are an
Educational Testing Service Computer Based Testing Center and offer a variety
of computer delivered assessments. For more information, please see testing
information on the web at www.murraystate.edu/secsv/test.htm
A full range of credit by examination opportunities is
available at Murray State University through the CLEP and APP programs.
Our policy on accepting credit through these programs may be found at www.murraystate.edu/secsv/clep.htm
The Counseling Center offers computer-assisted career
guidance through the use of the DISCOVER computer system. This resource
can assist an individual in identifying potential career areas and provide
detailed information regarding job characteristics and employment outlook.
Instructions on obtaining an access code are provided on the Counseling
Center's website.
Services for Students with Learning Disabilities
The SSLD office, located on the fourth floor of the Wells Hall, offers
academic support and accommodation for students who have been diagnosed
learning disabilities, attention deficit disorders, or other disorders
that affect learning. Academic support may include college credit courses
to assist the students in developing needed strategies and skills, tutorial
assistance, academic guidance, peer support, and information regarding
other campus services. Accommodations, include taped text books, notetakers,
and extended test time, are available based on each student's particular
needs. Please see the SSLD website for more information: www.murraystate.edu/secsv/SSLD.
Telephone number: 270-762-2018.
Project Mentor Project Mentor is an academic
support program that offers enhanced services to students qualified to
receive services through the SSLD office. Students voluntarily access the
services provided through Project Mentor. These services include individualized
assistance with learning effective strategies for organizing and studying
course-related materials and assignments. Fees for Project Mentor are based
on the number of hours each week the student meets with his/her academic
mentor. You may also want to visit our website at www.murraystate.edu/secsv/SSLD/projectmentor.html.
Food Services. The University operates eleven dining
facilities, four of which are located in the residence hall complex at
the north end of campus (Winslow Dining Hall, Fast Track C-Store, Starbucks-Thoroughbrewed
Café located on the first floor of Hart College, and a new Starbucks
in the Regents College lobby). The Curris Center houses the Thoroughbred
Room (T-
Room), the Sugar Cube, and Sunset Strips, as well as
a facility contracted to Subway. Food carts are located in Waterfield Library,
the Business Building, and in Faculty Hall. Information on meal plans is
printed in the Schedule of Classes or is available from the Food
Services Office on the first floor of the Curris Center.
Freshman Orientation. All new full-time freshmen
are required to register for an orientation class during the fall semester
unless excused by the department chair. The course carries one hour credit
and is graded on the pass-fail system. The purpose of this orientation
is to acquaint students with information concerning curricula, courses,
activities, facilities and personnel, and to assist students in making
adjustments to college life. In addition, incoming students are urged to
attend the summer orientation program.
Health Services. Health Services is located at
ground level in the north wing of Wells Hall. The clinic is open for student
visits from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. on
weekdays when classes are in session, with the exception of Wednesday afternoons.
Primary health care is offered on a drop-in outpatient basis. Students
are screened and assessed by professional nurses. They may be treated or
referred to the physician, depending on the nature of the visit. The local
hospital provides physician services on a 24-hour basis for emergencies.
Housing. Residential colleges are at the center
of Murray State University, redefining collegiate living and educational
experiences for undergraduate students. Every undergraduate student will
belong to one of the eight residential colleges. At the heart of each residential
college is the residence hall, which is the focal point for all residential
college activities.
Each residential college is composed of students from
a variety of academic majors, grade classifications, ethnic backgrounds
and extracurricular interests. Residential colleges are designed to celebrate
the rich diversity of Murray State University students, staff and faculty.
Each residential college offers a stimulating living-learning environment
for students.
Residential colleges provide students with opportunities
to interact with faculty on a daily basis outside of the classroom. The
small community atmosphere allows students the chance to establish a sense
of pride and common purpose. After being assigned to a residential college,
the student is connected with that community throughout the undergraduate
years. Students, staff and faculty establish enduring friendships through
the experience. The residential college develops traditions and lasting
bonds that remain with students years after graduation.
Psychological Center. Located in Wells Hall, the
Center serves as a training facility for graduate students in the Psychology
Department. It offers psychotherapy without charge to Murray State students.
Psychodiagnostic assessment is offered to students at a minimal charge.
Psychological services are also offered to children and adults in the community
for fees charged on a sliding-scale basis. Telephone number: 270-762-2504.
Public Safety Department. (University Police) Located
at the corner of North 16th and Olive Streets and is open 24-hours-a-day,
seven-days-a-week. Telephone number: 270-762-2222. Emergency number: 911.
The mission of the Public Safety Department, in cooperation
with the university community, is to provide an orderly environment conducive
for students to learn while also assuring the safety and protection of
the students, faculty, staff and visitors on the campus.
Within the University Police Division, state certified
police officers are responsible for a full range of public safety services,
including crime reports, investigations, medical emergencies, fire emergencies,
traffic accidents, enforcement of state and local laws and all other incidents
requiring police assistance. The Public Safety Department is also responsible
for escort services after dark, guest and visitor information, enforcement
of traffic and parking regulations, and lost and found.
Murray State University's annual security report includes
statistics for the previous three years concerning reported crimes that
occurred on campus; in certain off-campus buildings owned or controlled
by Murray State University; and on public property within, or immediately
adjacent to and accessible from campus. The report also includes institutional
policies concerning campus security, such as policies concerning alcohol
and drug use, crime prevention, the reporting of crimes, sexual assault,
and other matters. You can obtain a copy of this report by contacting Public
Safety or by accessing the following web site: www.murraystate.edu/publicsafety/crime99.htm.
The Murray State University web-based Crime Log has information regarding
recent crime and is available at: www.murraystate.edu/publicsafety/crimelog.
Rehabilitation Services. Located at 117 Wells Hall,
the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation provides services to individuals
who have a physical or mental impairment which constitutes or results in
a substantial impediment to employment. Reasonable expectation that vocational
rehabilitation services will benefit the individual in terms of employment
outcome must exist. Services provided can include vocational assessment,
vocational counseling, rehabilitation technology, training (tuition, books,
fees, etc.), job placement, and other services as needed on an individual
basis. The amount provided is based on financial needs assessment and availability
of funds. Telephone number: 270-762-3371.
Speech and Hearing Clinic. This clinic, part of
the Department of Wellness and Therapeutic Sciences, is located on the
first floor of the Special Education Building. The center provides a full
range of professional diagnostic and therapeutic services in speech-language
pathology and audiology for Murray State University students and for area
residents. Telephone number: 270-762-2446.
Summer Orientation. The primary aim of summer orientation
is to help incoming freshman students adjust to college life. New freshmen
are required to attend and transfer students are invited to come to campus
for one or two days during the summer to learn about residential college
life, classes, university terminology and organizations. Students receive
advice from trained counselors on fields of study and also register for
fall classes at this time.
TRIO Programs. The TRIO Programs are: Upward Bound,
Student Support Services, and Educational Talent Search. The TRIO
Programs are in the TRIO Building on North 16th Street.
Student Support Services is a federally funded program
sponsored by the U.S. Department of Education. The program is designed
to enhance the retention rate of Murray State students who demonstrate
academic and financial need, who are first-generation college students
and/or who have physical disabilities. This program offers personal, academic,
and career counseling; individual, group and computer-assisted tutoring;
instruction in self-development and career exploration; college survival
workshops; and services to students with disabilities. Telephone number:
270-762-4327.
Upward Bound, a TRIO Program of the U.S. Department of
Education, has served west Kentucky since 1966. The program's staff facilitates
college preparedness for academically talented, high school students who
are first-generation college students. Upward Bound's services include
academic skills enhancement, career and personal development, academic
planning, tutoring,
and cultural and social development. Ten hours of college
credit may be earned by participants. All services of Upward Bound are
paid by the program. Telephone number: 270-762-4328.
Educational Talent Search is a federally funded program
designed to provide educational guidance services to participants in the
Jackson Purchase region. Services provided are academic advising; career
and personal counseling; information on postsecondary education; academic
and ACT tutoring; study skills; mentoring; assistance in completing college
admission and financial aid applications; college tours; and workshops
and counseling for parents of students served. Telephone number: 270-762-3168.
University Store. Located in the Curris Center,
the University Store is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00
p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Sunday from 1:00 p.m. to
4:00 p.m. during the academic year. School supplies, current textbooks
both new and used, computers and software, paperback books, commencement
caps and gowns, magazines, novelties, CD's, greeting cards, souvenirs,
apparel and personal items can be purchased at the University Store. The
store operates a daily buy-back service Monday through Friday from 8:00
a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Saturday from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., and Sunday from
1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m., with extended hours during final exams. Telephone
number: 800-749-8580.
Veterans Affairs. The primary mission of the office
is to assist the veteran student with the successful transition from military
to university campus life. Eligible candidates should contact the office
immediately concerning general procedures and documents required to complete
enrollment certification with the VA regional office. This will help ensure
prompt payment of education benefits.
Veterans under the Vietnam era Montgomery G.I. Bill (Chapter
34) should be aware that this program was terminated on December 31, 1989.
Active-duty personnel (Chapter 34) entering the service after June 1, 1988,
and those who entered after July 1, 1985, will qualify for educational
assistance under the new Montgomery G.I. Bill (Chapter 30). A six-year
commitment is required with the National Guard or Selected Reserve for
the Montgomery G.I. Bill (Chapter 1606). People who have a disability rating
will receive funding through the rehabilitation program (Chapter 31). Those
who have served between January 1, 1977, and July 1, 1985, and participated
in the matching funds program (Chapter 32 VEAP) also have educational benefits.
Children, spouses and widow(er)s of veterans who, while serving in the
armed forces, were killed on active duty, or have died as a result of a
service-connected disability, or are permanently and totally disabled,
or were prisoners of war, or are missing in action qualify for benefits
under the Survivors' and Dependents' Educational Assistance Program (Chapter
35).
Tuition fees may be waived at any state-supported institution
of higher education in Kentucky for those children, spouses and widow(er)s
of Kentucky residents who, while serving in the armed forces or the Kentucky
National Guard, were killed on active duty, or who have died as a result
of a service-connected disability, or who are permanently and totally disabled,
or who were prisoners of war, or who have been declared missing in action.
Dependents of living qualifying veterans must be between the ages of 17
and 23. Tuition fees are waived for up to 36 months, or until age 23, whichever
comes first. Neither the age restriction nor the 36-month limitation applies
to dependents of deceased veterans.
For more information on these programs, please visit the
Veteran Affairs Office located in 119 Ordway Hall or call 270-762-6837
or 6838.
Policy on Academic Honesty
(Adopted by Board of Regents, February 14, 1975)
Cheating, plagiarism (submitting another person's material
as one's own), or doing work for another person which will receive academic
credit are all impermissible. This includes the use of unauthorized books,
notebooks, or other sources in order to secure or give help during an examination,
the unauthorized copying of examinations, assignments, reports, or term
papers, or the presentation of unacknowledged material as if it were the
student's own work. Disciplinary action may be taken beyond the academic
discipline administered by the faculty member who teaches the course in
which the cheating took place.
Note: Faculty reserve the right to invalidate
any examination or other evaluative measures if substantial evidence exists
that the integrity of the examination has been compromised.
Policy on Attendance
Students are expected to attend all classes in which
they are enrolled for credit or audit purposes. An instructor may establish
attendance policies for each class so long as they : (1) are clearly published
in the course syllabus, (2) distinguish between excused and unexcused absences
and (3) are consistent with university policies as outlined in this Bulletin.
Excused absences fall into two broad categories:
1. Absence due to personal illness or death in the immediate
family or other extraordinary personal circumstance. Faculty may require
appropriate authentication or documentation.
2. Absence due to student participation in a University
Sanctioned Event in which the student serves as a representative of the
institution.
University Sanctioned Events shall include those officially
scheduled activities (practice and training sessions NOT included) related
to intercollegiate athletics, performing groups, and teams who represent
the university in debate, forensics or other academic competitions. Other
activities and events may be added to this listing upon recommendation
of the Sanctioned Events Committee and approval by the Provost. This committee
shall consist of the Vice President for Student Affairs, the Director of
Athletics, the Faculty Senate President, a student appointed by the President
of the Student Government Association, and the Provost or his designee.
The official list of approved, sanctioned activities and events shall be
maintained in the Office of the Provost.
Attendance and participation in class activities is essential
to success in college. Absences, for whatever purposes, can potentially
undermine the shared goal of student learning. In cases where student absences
are clearly unavoidable, it is essential that students and faculty alike
approach the resolution of the difficulty with a clear commitment to the
mutual goal of student learning.
Responsibilities of Students: Students missing
class(es) as a result of activities covered above shall notify the instructor
in writing at the beginning of the semester and, in the case of scheduled
events, this notification shall not be less than one week prior to the
absence. Students with excused absences are excused from class attendance
but are not excused from work assigned or expected as a part of that class
period. Students, in conjunction with each course instructor, are required
to develop a plan for alternative assignments or the make-up of all work
missed and must complete this work within a time frame mutually agreed
upon with the instructor.
Responsibilities of Faculty: Faculty are expected
to plan with students who have excused absences to develop alternatives
and make-up assignments. Such alternatives are not expected to diminish
faculty expectations of students, nor may they reduce opportunities for
students to demonstrate performance.
Responsibilities of Others: Deans and department
chairs share the responsibility for ensuring proper orientation of all
full and part-time faculty regarding the provisions of this policy.
Administrators, sponsors and coaches of various student activities share
an important role in ensuring that students understand their responsibilities
with respect to this aspect of student performance. Specific guidelines
and procedures should be developed for each sport or activity to ensure
timely communication between students and faculty. Advance lists of varsity/participating
students along with schedules of away or off-campus activities or matches
should be provided to students so that they, in turn, can share this information
with faculty at the beginning of the semester.
Questions and Appeals: In the event of questions
or concerns regarding the implementation of this policy in specific classroom
situations, students and faculty should be guided by the following:
1. If there is a question regarding whether a specific
activity is an officially sanctioned event for which terms of this policy
might apply, the inquiry should be addressed to the Office of the Provost.
2. In the event a student is concerned with the implementation
of this policy in a specific course, the student should try to resolve
the matter by discussing it first with the instructor, then with the department
chair, and if resolution is still not reached, then with the collegiate
dean. If the matter is not settled through this process, the student may
seek resolution through the appropriate collegiate grievance/appeal process.
3. Instances of student abuse or violation of the terms
of this policy should be reported to the dean or director responsible for
the sanctioned event and to the Vice President for Student Affairs.
Policy on Racial Harassment
It is the policy of Murray State University to conduct
and provide programs, activities and services to students, faculty and
staff in an atmosphere free from racial harassment. Racial harassment is
any behavior that would verbally or physically threaten, torment, badger,
heckle or persecute an individual because of his/her race. Isolated instances
of misconduct, although never condoned, do not necessarily constitute racial
harassment, nor a hostile environment.
Racial harassment of university faculty, staff, students
or visitors is prohibited and shall subject the offender to appropriate
disciplinary action ranging from disciplinary warning to expulsion.
The administration has an open-door policy for any student
who feels he or she has been subjected to racial harassment or discrimination.
Students are urged to contact the Office of Student Affairs, Ordway Hall,
in the event that racial harassment arises outside of the employment setting.
All others should contact the Office of Equal Opportunity, 319 Wells Hall.
Policy on Combating Sexual Harassment
It is the policy of Murray State University to maintain
the university community as a place of work and study for faculty, staff
and students, free from sexual harassment and all forms of sexual intimidation
and exploitation. All faculty, staff and students should be aware that
the university is concerned and prepared to take action to prevent and
correct such behavior, and that individuals who engage in such behavior
are subject to discipline.
Behaviors which constitute sexual harassment can be classified
in three categories: (1) repeated and unwanted sexual behavior involving
physical contact; (2) verbal comments or suggestions of a sexual nature
which adversely affect the working or learning environment; (3) coercive
behavior, including suggestions that academic or employment reprisals or
rewards will follow the refusal or granting of sexual favors. These constitute
gross misconduct and will not be tolerated. In such cases, a single incident
would establish grounds for action.
Misconduct involving students in a non-employment setting
is governed by the University Codes of Conduct, and complaints about such
behavior should be referred to the Office of Student Affairs. Anyone who
is subject to offensive sexual behavior in the employment setting is encouraged
to pursue the matter through the Office of Equal Opportunity.
Policy on Hazing
Murray State University recognizes that student organizations
exist for the purpose of extending opportunities for education, social
interaction, leadership and skill development, and personal growth beyond
the classroom. Therefore, the practice of hazing pledges, associate members,
initiates or members is antithetical to the purposes of registered student
organizations at Murray State University and is strictly prohibited by
the university. Furthermore, as of July 1986, hazing is a violation of
Chapter 164 of Kentucky Revised Statutes. In pertinent part, the statute
reads as follows:
"(This statute) prohibits any action or situation which
recklessly or intentionally endangers mental or physical health or involves
the forced consumption of liquor or drugs for the purpose of initiation
or affiliation with any organization. . . . In the case of a student or
faculty violator, (violation of this statute shall result in) his suspension,
expulsion, or other appropriate disciplinary action and, in the case of
an organization which authorizes such conduct, (violation shall result
in) recision of permission for that organization to operate on campus property.
Such penalties shall be in addition to any penalty pursuant to the penal
law or any other chapter (of Kentucky Revised Statutes) to which a violator
or organization may be subject."
Specifically, on the campus of Murray State University,
hazing is defined as any on-campus or off-campus activity which results
in mental or physical harassment, humiliation, degradation, ridicule, shock,
endangerment, physical disfigurement, excessive fatigue, danger to health,
or the involuntary consumption of alcohol or drugs.
This prohibition against hazing applies equally to student
organizations, individual students, faculty, and staff members, visitors
to the campus, and licensees and invitees on the campus.
Any student who participates in hazing as defined above
has violated the Murray State University Code of Conduct and will be subject
to disciplinary action as described in the Standards in Disciplinary Proceedings
of the Student Life Policies. Any organization which authorizes or permits
hazing to occur has violated the policy statement on Regulation of Student
Groups and will be subject to group disciplinary action as outlined in
that policy.
Policy on Intolerance
The university is committed to creating an educational
environment which is free from intolerance directed toward individuals
or groups and strives to create and maintain an environment that fosters
respect for others. As an educational institution, the university has a
mandate to address problems of a society deeply ingrained with bias and
prejudice. Toward that end, the university provides educational programs
and activities to create an environment in which diversity and understanding
of other cultures are valued.
A. Intolerance refers to an attitude, feeling or belief
wherein an individual shows contempt for other individuals or groups based
on characteristics such as race, color, national origin, gender, sexual
orientation or political or religious belief.
B. Actions motivated by intolerance violate the principles
upon which American society is built and serve to destroy the fabric of
the society we share. Such actions do untold and unjust harm to those who
experience this kind of discrimination and threaten the reputation of the
university.
C. The expression of diverse views and opinions is encouraged
in the university community. Further, the First Amendment of the United
States Constitution assures the right of free expression. In a community
which recognizes the rights of its members to hold divergent views and
to express those views, sometimes ideas are expressed which are contrary
to university values and objectives. Nevertheless, the university cannot
impose disciplinary sanctions upon such expression when it is otherwise
in compliance with university regulations.
D. When any violation of a university policy, rule or
regulation is motivated by intolerance toward an individual or group based
on characteristics such as race, color, national origin, gender, sexual
orientation or political or religious beliefs, the sanction will be increased
in severity and may include separation from the university.
Policy on Use of University Facilities
The intent of the following guidelines is to permit appropriate
use of university facilities. Murray State University is committed to both
the practice and the philosophy of equal opportunity. The principles contained
in the guidelines for use of university facilities will be followed without
regard to and in a non-discriminatory manner as to race, religion, and/or
political affiliation. The guidelines shall also be applicable to all faculty,
staff, students, and non-university persons or groups. In addition, persons
who are not students or employees of the university are expected, while
on university property, to adhere to the standards of usage and conduct
applicable to faculty, staff, and students. The facilities of the university
shall mean buildings and structures, land, equipment, utilities, walks,
streets and recreational areas. The following guidelines apply to all university
facilities.
The basic requisite for granting the use of university
facilities is relevancy to the educational purpose as determined by the
university. Facilities may be used for non-educational activities when
it is considered to be in the best interest of the university. However,
the university reserves the right to make final determination as to the
true educational value or appropriateness of the event being scheduled
and whether or not the university will make its facilities available. University
facilities may not be used for non-educational programs unrelated to the
university when adequate private facilities are available. Generally speaking,
facilities will be made available on a "first come, first served" basis.
The order of classification of requesting groups will
be determined by the university. The order of classification to be followed
in scheduling facilities is as follows:
(a) academic departments, administrative departments and
registered student organizations scheduling non-revenue-producing1
programs, except grant programs that are funded for facility expense;
(b) academic departments, administrative departments and
registered student organizations scheduling facilities for university-sponsored,
revenue-producing1 programs (requests must be approved by appropriate
dean, vice-president, department chairman, director or organization advisor);
(c) university faculty, staff or students scheduling facilities
for non-university-sponsored, revenue-producing1 programs;
(d) non-university groups requesting facilities for non-revenue-producing
programs;
(e) non-university
groups scheduling facilities for revenue-producing1 groups.
Only registered organizations are eligible to schedule
university facilities. A non-registered group may schedule a meeting for
the purpose of organization. Additional meetings or functions shall not
be allowed until the group has registered with the Office of Student Activities.
Minimal charges are necessary to offset operational care
of facilities. In addition, any additional necessary charges are the responsibility
of the individual or group using the facility.
Guidelines for the use of university facilities, schedule
of rental charges and appropriate applications are available from the Scheduling
Coordinator, Administrative Services, General Services Building.
1Revenue-producing shall include any program having entrance
fees or generating income. Any event at which voluntary offerings are collected
shall be considered revenue-producing.
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