Skip to main content
Logo of Southeast Missouri State University 1873

Department of English & Communication

three english students sit together in a group to discuss a class project at semo a Missouri college known for job readiness

Turn your passion for language and connection into opportunity.

In the Department of English and Communication, you'll learn how to connect with people through the power of words, ideas, and storytelling. Whether you're refining your writing, strengthening your public speaking skills, or learning how to communicate across different audiences and platforms, you'll develop abilities that are in demand across every industry.

Graduates pursue careers in fields such as content creation, public relations, corporate communications, marketing, publishing, and more. No matter where your path leads, you'll leave SEMO with the skills and confidence to communicate effectively and make an impact.

Undergraduate Degrees

Explore how language, culture, and communication influence relationships, organizations, and society while developing skills that translate across a wide range of careers. Through coursework and experiential learning, you will strengthen your abilities in writing, analysis, public speaking, intercultural communication, relationship building, and problem-solving in the Department of English and Communication at SEMO.
Explore Programs
an english student gestures while she participates in a discussion in class at semo a Missouri college known for job readiness

Graduate Degrees

Graduate programs in the Department of English and Communication emphasize critical inquiry, effective writing, language competencies, and practical application while supporting your academic and career goals.
Explore Graduate Degrees
a communication student gestures while he participates in class at semo a Missouri college known for job readiness

Experiential Learning

Apply what you learn through research, presentations, internships, community engagement, and other hands-on experiences that strengthen professional and academic skills. Experiential learning opportunities range from academic conferences and presentations to service-learning events, plus a whole range of options in between.
Hands-on Learning in English and Communication
english and communication students gather in Kent's rare book library to study rare books at semo a Missouri college known for job readiness

Scholarships

The Department of English and Communication is committed to supporting you through scholarship opportunities and academic support resources. Departmental scholarships may be available based on academic achievement, leadership, program involvement, or other criteria. Explore the scholarships page and see what oppurtunites there are for you.
Department of English and Communication Scholarships
English student takes notes during class at semo a Missouri college known for job readiness

Course Rotations

Course rotation schedules help you plan ahead and stay on track for graduation. By working closely with academic advisors, you can understand when courses are offered, build an efficient academic plan, and take advantage of opportunities that support your goals.
See Department of English and Communication Course Rotations
a communiation student looks up, listening to the instructor during class at semo a Missouri college known for job readiness

Annual Events

  • students sit at a dinner table talking and smiling at semo a Missouri college known for job readiness

    Student Awards

    Student success deserves to be celebrated. Each year, the Department of English and Communication recognizes outstanding students for their achievements during an annual awards ceremony. These awards highlight the dedication, growth, and accomplishments of students across the department.

  • a lecturer talks at the front of a classroom at semo a Missouri college known for job readiness

    Weis Lecture Series

    The Weis Lecture Series brings accomplished organizational communication scholars and experts to SEMO each fall. Through presentations and discussions, students gain new perspectives on communication in the workplace. The Weis Lecture is an exciting way to learn more about effective communication in a professional setting.

  • a lecturer talks at the front of a classroom to engagged students at semo a Missouri college known for job readiness

    Joseph Low Lecture

    The Joseph H. Low Lecture brings leading scholars in rhetorical studies to SEMO each spring, providing students with opportunities to engage current research and ideas shaping the field. Focusing on how we make sense of persuasive messages in a wide range of contexts, experts in rhetorical criticism guide students through the questions and frameworks employed by scholars of communication to better understand the ways discourse shapes the world around us. Open to both the campus and local community, the lecture connects classroom learning to broader conversations in the discipline.

  • a hispanic individual stands in front of academic hall playing a guitar at semo a Missouri college known for job readiness

    Hispanic Heritage Month

    Each year, the Department of English and Communication celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month by recognizing the cultures, histories, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino communities. Through events and activities, students have opportunities to explore diverse perspectives and deepen their understanding of language, culture, and global connections.

English and Communication Career Outlook

  • $91k

    Technical Writer 

    The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual salary for a technical writer is $91,670.

  • $75K

    Editor

    The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual salary for an editor is $75,260.

  • $133K

    Fundraising Manager

    The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual salary for a fundrasining manager is $132,870.

  • $75K

    Social Media Specialist

    The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports the median annual salary for a social media specialist is $56,770.

Accreditations

AAQEP logo
Red theme background

Take the Next Step

English & Communication

Contact Us

Location

Office Location

Academic Hall 231

Mailing Address

One University Plaza, MS3225
Cape Girardeau, Missouri 63701