Morehead State University (MSU) is a comprehensive public university with robust undergraduate and graduate programs, emerging doctoral programs and an emphasis on regional engagement. MSU aspires to be the best public regional university in the South through prioritizing student success; outcomes; academic excellence; and rankings, reputation and regional responsiveness. 

MSU is located in the foothills of the Daniel Boone National Forest in Rowan County, Kentucky. Founded in 1887 as Morehead Normal School, it was a private, church-supported institution known as “a light to the mountains.” In 1922, it became part of the state-supported system and was renamed Morehead State Normal School and Teacher’s College. An increase in enrollment and degree programs resulted in successive renaming as Morehead State College (1948) and its current designation as Morehead State University (1966).