Find your
fearless
Determined. Committed. Fearless.
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Lamiyah’s past became her inspiration for how she wants to serve others today through a career in social work.
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Knowing the challenges she faced, Lamiyah sought out a program and college community that would equip her to do the meaningful work of providing care and resources to those who need it most.
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She found dedicated faculty with experience in the field that not only helps her reach academic excellence, but mentors her toward becoming a strong advocate for the communities she will serve.
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As a program grounded in real community experience through local agencies, a social work degree from SEMO prepares you to work in schools, hospitals, communities, or other areas of interest.
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Alumni of the social work program are trusted employees in the region and beyond, due to the technical knowledge, experience and mentorship they receive here at SEMO.
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Lamiyah knows she will be prepared to enter the field as a Missouri social worker confidently. Hear her story and see how you can make an impact with a social work degree from SEMO.
Future Focused.
You Focused.
Academics
A Social Work Degree that Meets Real Community Needs
Social work is about people, and learning it should be too. At SEMO, preparation begins long before graduation. Students are empowered to step confidently into careers that support individuals and communities who need them most. That commitment to student success runs deep at SEMO, especially among the faculty mentors in our social work program. Bringing their real experience from the field, faculty help you connect classroom learning to meaningful community work before you graduate. You'll learn how to become a healthcare social worker, work in schools, or other areas of interest within the community. Consider SEMO’s social work program or explore our full range of academic programs to find the right fit for you.
Dana Branson
Outcomes
"We do a lot of experiential learning. Our students aren’t just at an agency shadowing; they’re at an agency working.”
Meet Dr. Dana Branson
Student Experience
Active Learning
A Calling Strengthened Through Experience
Students in SEMO’s social work program complete a 448-hour practicum during their final semester, working directly with a local agency. This hands-on experience is critical in preparing students for Missouri social work jobs and beyond. Throughout the 14-week practicum, faculty remain closely involved, mentoring students and providing support every step of the way.
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448Students in SEMO’s Bachelor of Science in social work program get 448 hours of experience working in a local agency, preparing them for what they’ll face on the job in Missouri and across the region.
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6%According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for social workers is expected to grow 6 percent from 2024 to 2034, faster than most careers.
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100%Experiential learning is essential in SEMO’s programs, that's why 100% of our Criminal Justice, Social Work and Sociology students graduate with real, in-the-field experience.
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60+Faculty in SEMO’s social work program bring a combined 60 plus years of field experience, providing the expertise students need to be fully prepared for careers in social work.
Experiences Beyond the Classroom
The student experience includes more than going to class. Joining a student organization, leadership program, or intramural sport are just a few ways to immerse yourself in your college community. SEMO is the right fit for academics, experiential learning, and extracurriculars. When you join the Redhawk community, you will become fearless and full of college pride.
Admissions & Aid
According to data published by U.S. News and World Report, SEMO ranks among the most affordable universities in the nation, earning a spot in the top 40 for Best Value among other recognitions. SEMO students understand the value of a degree, and we work to remove barriers so you can reach your academic goals.
Deeply Connected
Community
Accessible Education for the Community
After serving her community for 20 years, Regina decided to take her career to the next level by earning her bachelor’s degree in social work. She advanced into a new role and now serves as the caregiver program director at Aging Matters. Her story reflects SEMO’s commitment to supporting Missouri social workers and community members who want to grow their careers while making an impact across the region.
Calvin Garner
In-Demand Alumni
“My Southeast Social Work education not only gave me the technical skills necessary, but it also reinforced the value of leadership, advocacy and service. Because of this, I’ve been able to navigate some difficult situations and circumstances in our community. My social work education has been the bridge between policy knowledge and community action.”
Career and Alumni Success
Outcomes
From SEMO Classrooms to the Frontlines
Within six months of graduation, nearly 96 percent of SEMO Humanities and Social Sciences graduates are working or continuing their education. Social work students turn that success into meaningful careers serving individuals, families, and communities.
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$1.3bIn FY 2023-24, SEMO alumni generated $1.3 billion in added income for the state economy, which is equivalent to supporting 12,859 jobs.
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$90.2mSEMO’s operations spending, including the University’s payroll and the in-state spending of the University and its employees, added $90.2 million in income to the state or the equivalent of 1,075 jobs.
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$31kThe average bachelor's degree graduate from SEMO will see an increase in earnings of $31,000 each year compared to someone with a high school diploma working in Missouri.
Take the Next Step
Forward Motion
You’ve already started to explore SEMO. Keep that momentum going. Schedule a campus visit or start your application today.
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Learn More
If one of our career-focused programs sounds like a fit — and you’re ready to turn grit into greatness — we’d love to tell you more about Southeast Missouri State University. Complete this brief form, and someone will be in touch real soon.
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