04/13/2026 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/13/2026 18:12
Southeast Missouri State University has earned national recognition in the latest U.S. News & World Report Best Graduate Schools rankings, with its master's-level nursing, business and speech-language pathology programs recognized among the nation's best.
SEMO's graduate nursing program was among the Best Nursing Schools: Master's, and the MBA program was named to the Best Part-Time MBA Programs list. The University's speech-language pathology program was also recognized.
Released annually, the U.S. News Best Graduate Schools rankings evaluate programs based on a variety of factors, including faculty credentials, research activity, student engagement and outcomes, and reputation among peer institutions.
"This recognition reflects the strength of our speech-language pathology program and the preparation our students receive before entering the field," said Dr. Susan Fulton, chair of the Department of Communication Disorders at SEMO. "Our students graduate with meaningful clinical experience and the confidence to support individuals and families across a range of communication and swallowing challenges."
SEMO's nursing programs prepare graduates for advanced roles in healthcare through a combination of classroom instruction, clinical practice and faculty mentorship. The recognition reflects the program's continued commitment to student success and workforce readiness.
"This recognition reflects the strength and continued momentum of our graduate nursing program as we prepare advanced practice nurses to meet the complex healthcare needs of our communities," said Dr. Moretta Burk, chair of the Department of Nursing at SEMO. "I am incredibly proud of Dr. Gina Koch, MSN program director, and our graduate faculty, whose expertise and dedication ensure our MSN graduates are well prepared to provide high-quality, patient-centered care."
SEMO's part-time MBA program is designed to meet the needs of working professionals, offering flexible pathways for career advancement while maintaining academic rigor.
"The Harrison College of Business and Computing is pleased to be recognized by US News and World Report in the list of best part-time MBA programs," said Dr. Kevin Dickson, dean of the Harrison College of Business and Computing. "Dr. Gillian Nicholls has been leading changes to increase the availability of our program to part-time students both in-person and through online course offerings. We also recently increased the offerings of eight-week courses to help meet the requests of professionals who want to complete the program while working. With entry points throughout the year and a recently AACSB reaccredited program, the MBA in HCBC is a truly outstanding return on investment for part-time students."
The rankings highlight SEMO's ongoing commitment to providing high-quality, accessible graduate education that prepares students to lead and succeed in their fields.
For more information about Southeast Missouri State University's graduate programs, visit semo.edu/academics/grad.