Morehead State graduate programs earn national recognition
Morehead State University continues to add to its reputation as one of the best public regional universities in the South with graduate programs that are recognized on a national level.
U.S. News & World Report recently named MSU's Ernst & Sara Lane Volgenau College of Education among its Best Education Schools and the MPA program among its Best Public Affairs Schools for its 2026 U.S. News Best Graduate Schools. MSU was among the Top 4 education schools in the state for its graduate programs in education, while it was the top-listed Kentucky institution (tied) for its MPA program.
"The quality of our graduate programs stems from our strong commitment to educating students for success and serving our communities to improve the quality of life. It is wonderful and energizing to see our graduate education programs recognized in the U.S. News rankings," said Dr. Johnathan Nelson, director of graduate, online and lifelong learning. "It's a testament to the dedication of our students and faculty, and I couldn't be prouder of our graduate programs in the Ernst & Sara Lane Volgenau College of Education and our MPA program. I'm excited to build on this momentum and continue our growth in all of our graduate programs."
Founded as a teacher training school in 1887 under the name Morehead Normal School, Morehead State is adding to that legacy with its graduate-level education programs. MSU offers graduate-level education programs at the master's and doctoral levels, with several areas of concentration, for prospective students interested in becoming teachers or administrators. These include a Master of Arts in Teaching, a Master of Arts in Education, a Specialist in Education (EdS), and a Doctor of Education (EdD).
MSU's commitment to providing affordable, high-quality education also includes convenient and meaningful advanced career paths.
Starting Fall 2026, the online Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) will be the most affordable MAT program in Kentucky. With flexible transfer credits, the MAT program is the perfect transition for those with an undergraduate degree unrelated to education, to seek teacher certification.
“Graduate school is where our students truly SOAR,” said Dr. Nicola Mason (Class of 2007), dean of the College of Education. “Under the personalized mentorship of faculty, we provide expert advising, cutting edge instruction, and a deep lifelong connection to the profession.”
Other graduate school programs like the Master of Public Administration (MPA) prepare students to be successful public service administrators. Graduates of MSU’s MPA program Pursue careers in government, public service, education and nonprofit organizations or choose to continue their education through advanced social sciences degrees or apply for law school admission.
“Our small, intimate class sizes enable students to build meaningful connections with faculty, fostering a strong scholarly community in an online environment,” said Department Chair & Professor of Political Science Dr. James Masterson. “This sense of community is central to our program’s success and is reflected in the impactful work our graduates go on to lead.”
To learn more about the MSU's Volgenau College of Education and its programs, please contact Dean Dr. Nicola Mason at nfmason@moreheadstate.edu or call 606-783-2162.
For more information about the MPA program at MSU, contact the Department of History, Philosophy, Politics, Global & Legal Studies at hpgl@moreheadstate.edu or 606-783-2655.
