Salaries at MSU

At Murray State University, located in Murray, Kentucky, salary expectations for faculty and staff are typically determined by factors such as role, academic rank, years of experience, and field of expertise. Salaries often vary between academic disciplines, with fields like business, engineering, and health sciences generally commanding higher compensation due to market demand. Administrative roles are influenced by the level of responsibility and scope of duties. While Murray State University strives for transparency in its compensation structure, specific salary bands or detailed breakdowns for individual positions are not always publicly available. Instead, general ranges and averages can often be inferred from state-level public employee salary data or university reports.

• Assistant Professor: Typical salary range is approximately $45,000–$55,000 USD per year, depending on the department. Entry-level roles may start lower, with potential increases based on research output and teaching evaluations.
• Associate Professor: Average salary range is around $55,000–$70,000 USD annually. Mid-career faculty often see increments tied to tenure status and publication records.
• Full Professor: Salaries typically fall between $70,000–$90,000 USD per year, with senior faculty benefiting from longevity, leadership roles, and external research funding.
• Department Chair: Compensation ranges from $80,000–$100,000 USD annually, reflecting additional administrative responsibilities and oversight duties.
• Administrative Staff (e.g., Academic Advisor): Salaries generally range from $35,000–$50,000 USD per year, varying by experience and specific job scope.

Salaries at Murray State University are generally competitive within the context of public universities in Kentucky, though they may lag behind larger research institutions or private universities in more urban areas. As a public institution, compensation often aligns with state benchmarks for higher education employees, and progression typically depends on performance reviews, tenure processes, and budget allocations. Faculty and staff may also have access to benefits such as retirement plans and health insurance, which add to the overall compensation package. For the most accurate and up-to-date figures, individuals are encouraged to consult directly with the university’s human resources department.