SEMO Sees Regional Enrollment Growth, Record Graduation Rates

This fall, enrollment from Cape Girardeau County high schools rose 4 percent over last year. Even more significant, the wider Southeast Missouri region, representing more than 50 high schools, saw a 10 percent increase in students enrolling at Southeast. Combined, that represents a 7 percent increase in new students from the University’s immediate region. Overall, the University realized a 7 percent increase in new full-time domestic first year students and a 10 percent increase in full-time domestic transfer students.

“These numbers tell us SEMO is resonating with students and families in the communities we serve most directly,” said Interim Vice President of Enrollment Management and Student Success Dr. Bruce Skinner. “Students in Southeast Missouri see SEMO’s experience driven education and strong outcomes, and the University and the region benefit as they choose to pursue their futures with us.”

Beyond strong regional growth, SEMO is seeing long-term student success at historic levels. Four-year and six-year graduation rates are the highest they’ve been in a decade at 44% and 61% respectively.

Other areas of growth include online learners, Early College students, and domestic graduate students. International enrollment, as many universities in the United States are experiencing, declined by 63 percent. Overall, SEMO’s undergraduate headcount dipped about 3 percent with around 70 fewer beginning freshmen compared to last year.

“We are proud of the fact that more students from our region are choosing SEMO and that more of them are crossing the finish line to earn their degrees,” Skinner said. “That’s the heart of our mission as a regional public university expanding access and ensuring success.”

Skinner noted that the University’s growing regional pipeline will be further strengthened by SEMO’s new scholarship program, which makes an estimated 85% of students eligible for additional merit based financial support. The program not only expands awards for students at the highest academic levels, but also increases opportunities for those who choose not to take the ACT or SAT.

“This scholarship program opens more doors for more students,” Skinner said. “It reflects our commitment to making a SEMO education more accessible and affordable, and we’re excited about the new possibilities it creates for students and families across the region.”

About SEMO
Founded in 1873, Southeast Missouri State University (SEMO) is a regional public university located in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, with a mission rooted in student success, excellence and community. Offering a wide variety of associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs and recognized for its strong commitment to experiential learning, SEMO empowers students through real-world experiences that foster innovation, leadership and career readiness. With a rich tradition of academic excellence and community engagement, SEMO serves as a dynamic hub for education and economic development in the region. Visit semo.edu to learn more.