MURRAY, Ky. – Murray State University’s Criminal Justice and Social Work department has officially opened a new Virtual Reality (VR) Lab, providing students in these programs with an innovative, hands-on approach to learning. A grand opening was recently held during Family Weekend, offering families and community members the opportunity to see how the department is preparing students for careers that increasingly rely on technology.
The lab uses the WRAP VR system, which places students into highly detailed, real-world scenarios designed to strengthen communication and problem-solving skills. Situations range from traffic stops and domestic violence calls to encounters with individuals experiencing mental illness or substance abuse issues.
“We are excited to open the Virtual Reality Lab, which will help provide another opportunity for our students to have experiential learning, collaborate between the programs, and better prepare them not only for their careers, but for careers that will involve the use of technology,” said Dr. Katy Hancock, department chair of criminal justice and social work.
The system emphasizes de-escalation and communication as primary tools, with physical force serving as a last resort. After completing a scenario, students participate in group discussions to reflect on what went well, what challenges they faced and how theoretical knowledge applies to the situation.
“While classroom learning gives students a chance to build theoretical knowledge and critical thought, the WRAP system allows them to apply those concepts in practice,” Hancock said. “This immersive experience helps them understand the stress and realities professionals face in the field, and it gives them the opportunity to decide if this is truly the career path they want to pursue.”
As mental health and substance abuse concerns continue to grow nationwide, social workers and law enforcement are working together more frequently. The collaboration between Murray State’s programs mirrors these real-world partnerships, helping students gain experience with cross-disciplinary teamwork early in their careers.
The Murray State University Police Department will also partner with faculty to run simulations during select events and training sessions, providing their expertise to enhance the scenarios.
Assistant Police Chief, Chris Fike, said the University Police Department is very excited about this partnership.
“This lab will provide our officers with a unique space to practice a wide range of scenarios that enhance decision-making, response times and overall preparedness,” Fike said. “The ability to safely experience and repeat these situations allows us to refine our training in ways that traditional methods cannot always replicate. In addition, this partnership offers our campus community, especially students in the criminal justice and social work program, a firsthand look at the types of calls police officers regularly respond to. It creates a valuable bridge between classroom learning and real-world application, helping future professionals better understand the challenges and responsibilities of law enforcement.”
Dr. Daniel Hepworth, professor in criminal justice and social work, said the classroom setting limits the scope of hands-on learning opportunities available to students.
“This system allows students to step into the shoes of a professional and experience situations as close to real life as possible within the confines of the building,” Hepworth said.
Murray State faculty plan to integrate the VR system into courses, student organizations and open lab sessions where students can participate or observe simulations. The WRAP system also offers the flexibility to add new scenarios annually, ensuring students are continually exposed to evolving challenges in the field.
“This is an amazing system and one that we are thrilled to share with our students,” Hancock said. “It will enhance their education immensely by allowing them to practice skills in a safe yet realistic environment.”
The department celebrated the grand opening of its new Virtual Reality Lab during Family Weekend on Sept. 5. Guests were invited to explore the state-of-the-art space, experience interactive demonstrations and learn more about the innovative technology shaping the future of education.
To learn more about the Criminal Justice and Social Work department, visit murraystate.edu/coehs.
Photo: Sergeant Rick Mehlbauer guides a Murray State student through a VR training scenario, designed to strengthen communication and problem-solving skills for real-world situations.