“SEMO is committed to providing a high-quality education that meets the ever-changing needs of employers as well as the demands for students to pursue continuing education,” said Dr. Doug Koch, interim Provost. “We rely on the advisory boards to ensure our programs incorporate emerging trends and equip our graduates with the knowledge and skills that employers seek.”

At the heart of this initiative, advisory boards include SEMO faculty and industry specialists who regularly evaluate and refine University programs. They not only help identify the essential skills needed for today’s job market but also partner with faculty on special projects like portfolio reviews and experiential learning opportunities that immerse students in professional environments.

For example, the Holland College of Arts and Media collaborates with The CRY HAVOC Company in New York City to provide master classes and coordinate student showcases. Similarly, advisory boards for the Departments of Art and Design, Mass Media, Music, and the Dobbins Conservatory of Theatre and Dance ensure students receive a well-rounded education aligned with industry standards. 

In the College of Education, Health & Human Studies, various advisory boards for PK-12 educator preparation, kinesiology, nutrition, recreation, and counseling regularly meet to refine curricula and address emerging industry trends. 

The College of Humanities and Social Sciences includes annual meetings for advisory boards in Social Work and Historic Preservation, ensuring that academic offerings remain relevant to field-specific needs.

Meanwhile, the College of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics benefits from advisory groups for Engineering, Technology, and Mathematics, which conduct annual and bi-annual reviews to keep programs current and aligned with industry requirements. The Engineering & Technology advisory board has a long roster of participants, including industry giants and local stakeholders such as Toyoda Gosei, the Missouri Department of Transportation, Ameren, Great Lakes Drone, the National Geospatial Intelligence Agency, Lidar USA, local schools and constructions companies, and other regional enterprises.

The Harrison College of Business and Computing engages with advisory councils across management, accounting, economics, finance, and computer science to ensure that its programs meet professional standards and respond to emerging trends in the business landscape.

Additionally, the Regional Campuses, including Sikeston and Kennett, have Advisory Councils that convene quarterly and bi-annually to address regional educational needs and opportunities.

“Our partnerships with advisory boards and the various organizations also strengthen our connections with the professional community and provide many mutually beneficial opportunities such as internships, mentoring, career opportunities, and resource or knowledge sharing,” said Koch.

These collaborative efforts highlight SEMO’s commitment to delivering an education that is not only relevant but also directly aligned with the demands of today’s workforce. SEMO has 32 active advisory boards and ensures that its academic programs remain at the forefront of industry standards and best practices by working closely with these industry experts and professionals. In addition to the advisory boards, SEMO utilizes other advisory groups, professional organizations, business and industry professionals to provide insights and career outlooks for all its programs.

Apply to SEMO
Eligible new Missouri undergraduate students with a 2.75 high school GPA and who are eligible for Pell Grants won’t pay any tuition or fees at Southeast Missouri State with the Will To Do Award. SEMO also offers one tuition rate nationwide for domestic students. Apply at semo.edu/apply.

Prospective students are encouraged to visit campus. For more information or to visit campus, visit the Southeast Admissions page or admissions@semo.edu.