Economic Development at Murray State College operates under the aegis of the Institutional Advancement Division, answering directly to President Bill Pennington, Ph.D. The goals of this department are to increase employment, per-capita income and private investment in business communities in the Murray State service area. This includes both for-profit and non-profit businesses.
Small business is the backbone of the local economy in this region; however, just in Murray State’s service area companies as diverse as Martin Marietta, TXI, Unimin, Valero, Michelin, BNSF, Sundowner Trailer, and U.S. Silica have very successful operations.
Murray State’s business-oriented programs include:
Business Management (Associate in Applied Science Degree)
The Associate Degree prepares students to enter the workforce after only two years or less time. Concentrations are offered in these disciplines:
Business Management
- Options under this program include: Accounting, Management
Business and Office Technology
- As technology continues to pervade the business office, new technology and techniques on using it are vital to business.
Graphic Arts
- This program offers both the traditional (two) year and Fast-Track program. The Fast track program allows students to complete the program in 12 months.
Computer Information Systems
- This program focuses on capacity building and problem solving as technology changes so rapidly, students not only need to master the basics but must have
the capacity to continue to adapt to changing technology.
Computer Network Systems
- This program is offered only in the Fast-Track format. The Fast track program is an intense 12 months, and students earn. Students completing the program get certifications as follows: CompTIA A+, RHCT, Cisco Systems CCNA, and Microsoft MCSE.
Gunsmithing
- Murray State’s program is one of four in the nation. Students learn all skills necessary to become a professional gunsmith.
Veterinary Technology
- One of the largest equine markets is found along the route betweenOklahoma City and Dallas. There is a constant demand for technicians in the numerous large animal veterinary practices in Murray State’s service areas.
Manufacturer’s Alliance
Murray State contracts with the Oklahoma Alliance for Manufacturing Excellence to provide an engineer that assists manufacturers in programs such as: Lean Manufacturing, ISO 9000, Engineering Assistance, Plant Layout, and other programs. Kay Watson [580.504.7537] serves as the MEA in Murray State’s service area.
