Southeast Missouri State University is moving up in the 2027 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, including rising 10 places among regional universities in the Midwest and ranking No. 1 among Missouri institutions for Top Public Schools. The results provide another measure of progress as SEMO begins implementing its new strategic plan, Fearlessly Forward.
SEMO moved up 10 places to #58 among best regional universities in the Midwest, comprising 12 states. The University ranked #14 for Top Public schools, up eight places from last year. It was also named the #23 Best Value School, up 13 places from last year.
Among Missouri institutions, SEMO ranks No. 1 for Top Public Schools in Missouri, No. 2 for Colleges for Veterans in Missouri, No. 2 for Best Value Schools in Missouri and No. 2 for Best Value Schools for In-State Students in Missouri.
One of SEMO’s largest ranking gains reflects a priority at the heart of its new strategic plan: accelerating upward mobility. The University climbed 23 places to #61 among Midwest universities for Top Performers on Social Mobility.
In a new category, SEMO debuted at #13 as a Best Value School for in-state students. The University moved up nine places to rank #25 in Best Colleges for Veterans. Nationally, SEMO saw academic program rankings in business, computer science, engineering, psychology, and nursing which saw the largest jump, up 49 places.
“There is a lot of momentum at SEMO right now,” said SEMO President Dr. Brad Hodson. “We are building a University relevant to students, employers and the region. That means creating more opportunities for students to succeed, removing barriers that stand in their way and making sure their education leads to a fulfilling life and career. The rankings show we are making significant progress.”
SEMO’s strategic plan focuses on connecting students with workforce relevant academic programs, hands-on experiences and career opportunities that meet the needs of employers across Eastern Missouri. Fearlessly Forward identifies several measures of success related to upward mobility, including reducing the number of years students need to recoup their educational investment, increasing the percentage of graduates employed in their field or continuing their education six months after graduation, and reducing average time to degree completion.
“A ranking is only meaningful if it reflects something that matters to our students,” Hodson said. “When we see progress in social mobility, value and the academic programs that prepare students for careers, that tells us we are making progress in the areas that matter most. Our job now is to build on this success.”
For students looking for an education that connects affordability, career preparation and opportunities to move forward, SEMO offers programs and experiences designed to prepare graduates for what comes next. Visit semo.edu/apply.