Southeast Missouri State University prepares the next generation of nurses with a suite of nursing programs designed to meet students where they are and prepare them for the evolving needs of today’s healthcare system.
SEMO offers flexible and high-quality options through its Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN), online RN to BSN and Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) program, all of which are accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE).
“We design our programs for student success,” said Dr. Moretta Burk, chair and associate professor of SEMO’s Department of Nursing. “Students get real clinical experience, strong faculty support and the confidence they need to step into the workforce ready to care for their communities.”
The traditional BSN program offers students a comprehensive foundation in nursing practice, along with hands-on experience through clinical placements in many healthcare settings. Students benefit from state-of-the-art simulation labs and dedicated National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) preparation.
The NCLEX-RN exam measures readiness to begin working as a registered or practical nurse. In the first three quarters of 2025, SEMO’s BSN graduates achieved a first-time NCLEX-RN pass rate of 96.92%, significantly surpassing the 87.35% national average.
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For working nurses, the fully online RN to BSN program allows licensed RNs to complete their bachelor’s degrees with maximum flexibility. Students can complete the program in as little as one year full-time or choose a part-time schedule.
At the graduate level, SEMO’s Master of Science in Nursing program prepares nurses for advanced practice roles in primary care. The hybrid program combines online coursework with in-person clinical experiences and offers a rigorous curriculum of both college credit hours and clinical clock hours. Graduates consistently exceed national benchmarks, achieving a 100% pass rate on the ANCC and AANP Family Nurse Practitioner board certification exams for the past five years.
“The success of our MSN graduates is a reflection of the one-on-one mentorship students receive,” said Dr. Gina Koch, associate professor and SEMO’s graduate nursing director. “We’re not just educating nurse practitioners, we’re cultivating confident, compassionate healthcare leaders.”
No matter where you are, you can start your career in nursing at SEMO. For more information about SEMO’s Department of Nursing, visit semo.edu/nursing or apply today.