
One University Plaza, Cape Girardeau, MO 63701, USA


Graduation rates at Southeast Missouri State University present a mixed picture for prospective students evaluating their academic prospects. Overall, the six-year graduation rate stands at 56%, placing the university in the lower half nationally, while the four-year graduation rate is notably lower at 39%, indicating that fewer than two in five students complete their bachelor's degree within the standard timeframe.
When disaggregated by gender, female students tend to graduate at a somewhat higher rate than their male counterparts. The graduation rate for women is 59%, compared to 51% for men, both of which are considered average but remain below the median among peer institutions. These figures reflect similar trends across other universities but highlight a modest gender gap favoring female student retention and completion.
Retention rates also offer insight into the university's academic environment, with 76% of students returning after their first year. This retention rate is slightly above average and suggests that a majority of students who begin their studies remain enrolled for subsequent years, potentially improving their likelihood of graduation over time.
While more granular graduation statistics by major or degree focus are not detailed, the overall data provides important context. With graduation rates in the bottom 50% nationally, students may wish to consider the time frame and support systems necessary to complete their education successfully at Southeast Missouri State University.
Graduates of Southeast Missouri State University experience a wide range of earning potentials depending on their chosen field of study. Those with degrees in technology and engineering-related areas tend to command some of the highest salaries. For instance, graduates in Engineering Technology, General report average earnings of $55,063, while those specializing in Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians earn about $38,714. Computer and Information Sciences graduates also achieve strong income outcomes, averaging $50,908 annually.
Business-related disciplines at the university also show promising financial returns. Accounting and Related Services graduates earn around $44,023, and Finance and Financial Management Services holders see average salaries near $41,335. Students completing degrees in Business Administration, Management and Operations have a median income of approximately $35,772, whereas Hospitality Administration graduates earn roughly $36,159.
In communications, Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication degree holders achieve median earnings close to $38,597, while Communication and Media Studies graduates make about $32,558. Social Sciences and related fields present moderate earning prospects, with Social Sciences, General graduates earning around $37,090 and Political Science and Government alumni averaging $34,899.
Education graduates obtain incomes that vary by specialization but generally fall in the lower to mid-range brackets. Special Education and Teaching graduates report earnings of $32,329, and Teacher Education and Professional Development in specific levels and methods average around $29,916. Those focusing on specific subject areas earn about $29,430.
Health and nursing graduate earnings notably surpass many other disciplines. Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing degrees yield an average annual wage of $59,369, representing the highest earning potential among the university's graduates by field.
Other disciplines also show varied and competitive earnings. Agricultural Business and Management graduates earn approximately $41,320, while Marketing graduates report median salaries near $33,855. Communication Disorders Sciences and Services, Psychology, and Social Work degrees fall in varying ranges, with Psychology graduates earning roughly $28,965 and Social Work graduates around $28,583.
Career Centers:
Full time employees: 3
Part time employees: 4
Career Counselling:
Individual: All undergraduates
Group: Data not available
Career Center services:
Other information:
Job bank on campus
YesJob fairs on campus
YesOn campus employer recruitment
All undergraduatesBACHELOR’S Degree
Agricultural/Animal/Plant/Veterinary Science and Related Fields
Natural Resources and Conservation
Communication, Journalism, and Related Programs
Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services
Education
Engineering
Engineering/Engineering-related Technologies/Technicians
Family and Consumer Sciences/Human Sciences
English Language and Literature/Letters
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
Biological and Biomedical Sciences
Mathematics and Statistics
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies
Parks, Recreation, Leisure, Fitness, and Kinesiology
Philosophy and Religious Studies
Physical Sciences
Psychology
Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services
Public Administration and Social Service Professions
Social Sciences
Visual and Performing Arts
Health Professions and Related Programs
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services
History
MASTER’S Degree
Natural Resources and Conservation
Computer and Information Sciences and Support Services
Education
Engineering/Engineering-related Technologies/Technicians
English Language and Literature/Letters
Biological and Biomedical Sciences
Mathematics and Statistics
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies
Psychology
Homeland Security, Law Enforcement, Firefighting and Related Protective Services
Public Administration and Social Service Professions
Health Professions and Related Programs
Business, Management, Marketing, and Related Support Services
History