Economic Impact

Words that say Economic Impact Report over top of an image of River Campus

SEMO is an engine for economic growth throughout all of Missouri through economic engagement efforts, workforce development initiatives, spending practices, arts and cultural events, and its NCAA Division-I athletics program.

SEMO creates value in many ways, and it greatly influences both the lives of its students and the state economy. The University supports a variety of industries, serves state businesses, and benefits society as a whole in Missouri from an expanded economy and improved quality of life, contributing a staggering $1.4 billion to the state's economy in fiscal year 2023-24. Additionally, the benefits created by SEMO extend to the state and local government through increased tax revenues and public sector savings. Using a two-pronged approach that involves an economic impact analysis and an investment analysis, this study calculates the benefits received by each of these groups.

The Economic Value of Southeast Missouri State University

Economic Impact Analysis

Alumni Impact

As a result of their education from SEMO, the students receive higher earnings and increase the productivity of the businesses that employ them. In FY 2023-24, SEMO alumni generated $1.3 billion in added income for the state economy, which is equivalent to supporting 12,859 jobs.

Operations Impact

SEMO adds economic value to Missouri as an employer of state residents and a large-scale buyer of goods and services. SEMO’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.

Student Spending Impact

SEMO student spending, including groceries, accommodations, transportation, and other household expenses, generates $36.1 million in added income for the state economy or the equivalent of 624 jobs.

For Every $1....

Students

For every dollar they invest in SEMO, students gain $6.50 in higher future earnings.

Taxpayers

For every dollar of public money invested in SEMO , taxpayers will receive a return of $2.50.

Society

Society as a whole in Missouri benefits from the presence of SEMO in two major ways: an increased economic base and savings generated by the improved lifestyles of SEMO students. For every dollar invested in SEMO, people in Missouri will receive a return of $11.70 in benefits.

Investment Analysis

"The 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."

Lightcast Economic Value Report

The average bachelor's degree graduate from SEMO will see an increase in earnings of $28,900 each year compared to someone with a high school diploma working in Missouri.

Show Me the Numbers

We understand that sometimes you just need to see something for yourself to believe. Take your time and read through the full report of SEMO's impact on Missouri.

Executive Summary
Executive Summary Infographic
Economic and Workforce Development
Economic and Workforce Development
Phone
(573) 651-2929
Location
Physical Location
612 Broadway St
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701
Mailing Address

One University Plaza, MS 0130
Cape Girardeau, MO 63701