Southeast Missouri State University
About Southeast Missouri State University
Southeast Missouri State University is a comprehensive regional university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Committed to student success, SEMO provides a supportive learning environment with strong academic programs and practical, hands-on experiences.
location_city City, State & Campus Insights
Explore life, weather, culture, transit, and demographics around Southeast Missouri State University
groups 1. City Size & State Population
Cape Girardeau
74.8 sq km / 28.9 sq mi
40,000
6.2 Million
Density: 535 people per sq km / 1,384 people per sq mi
thermostat 2. Monthly Climate (Jan – Dec)
attractions 3. Top Places to Visit Nearby
Cape Girardeau Conservation Nature Center
Nature CenterAn educational facility offering exhibits, trails, and programs about Missouri's natural resources and wildlife.
Old St. Vincent's Church
Historic Site / LandmarkA beautiful historic church with stunning architecture, dating back to 1833, offering a glimpse into the city's past.
Trail of Tears State Park
State Park / Historic SiteCommemorates the forced removal of Cherokee Indians, offering hiking trails, camping, and interpretive exhibits along the Mississippi River.
Riverfront Park
ParkLocated along the Mississippi River, this park features murals, walking paths, and scenic views of the river.
restaurant 4. Top Local Foods & Cuisines
Toasted Ravioli
While a St. Louis staple, it's widely enjoyed in Southeast Missouri. Crispy fried pasta pockets filled with meat or cheese, often served with marinara sauce.
Missouri BBQ
Missouri is known for its diverse BBQ styles. In Southeast Missouri, you'll find slow-smoked meats with various regional sauces, often focusing on pork and beef.
Catfish
Given its proximity to the Mississippi River, fried or grilled catfish is a popular and delicious local offering.
diversity_3 5. Racial & Demographic Composition
Cape Girardeau is a moderately diverse city in Southeast Missouri. The racial composition reflects a mix of white, Black, and other ethnic groups, with a growing Hispanic population.
workspace_premium 6. Notable University Alumni & Figures
Rush Limbaugh
Attended Southeast Missouri State University. Became one of the most influential and widely listened-to talk radio hosts in American history.
Neal E. Smith
Attended Southeast Missouri State University. Served as a U.S. Representative for Iowa's 4th congressional district for 36 years.
Roy Thomas
Graduated from Southeast Missouri State University. Known for his work at Marvel Comics, particularly on Conan the Barbarian and X-Men.
directions_bus 7. Transportation & Getting Around
Cape Girardeau has a limited public transit system but is well-connected by road. Walking and cycling are viable in certain areas, and regional air travel is accessible.
Public Transit (Buses)
Cape Transit offers limited bus services within the city, primarily during weekdays. Fares are affordable, but coverage and frequency are not extensive.
Walking & Cycling
The city has some pedestrian-friendly areas, especially downtown and near the university. Dedicated bike lanes are less common, but some parks and trails are suitable for cycling.
Regional Rail & Airport
The Cape Girardeau Regional Airport (CGI) offers limited commercial flights. Larger airports like St. Louis Lambert International Airport (STL) are approximately a 2-hour drive. There is no direct passenger rail service in Cape Girardeau.
school 8. Education & Literacy Level
98%
28%
Cape Girardeau is a regional educational hub, largely due to Southeast Missouri State University. The city generally has a high literacy rate, and the percentage of residents with a bachelor's degree or higher is slightly above the state average, reflecting the presence of the university and related professional opportunities. The academic ecosystem is vibrant, with the university being a major employer and cultural influence.
trending_up 9. Main Source of Economy & Industries
The economy of Cape Girardeau is diverse, with healthcare, education, retail, and manufacturing being primary drivers. Its strategic location on the Mississippi River also contributes to logistics and trade.
Key Driving Industries
Major Corporate Employers
Popular Programs
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Admissions Info
Application Period
Main intake starts in September. Applications are typically accepted from October to January for the following academic year.
Fees & Living Costs
Tuition Fees / Year
$9,240.00 - $16,920.00
Living Expenses / Year
$12,000.00 - $20,000.00
* Costs are estimated. Actual fees may vary by course and lifestyle.
Scholarships & Financial Aid
Need-Blind Admission
Financial need is not considered during the admission process for both domestic and international students.
Campus Life
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