SMU

Quick Facts about SMU

• Type: Private
• Students: 12,000
• Campus: Urban
• Tuition: $58,540 – $69,722/year
• Language: English
• Intakes: January, August, June

About SMU

Academics

SMU offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across eight degree-granting schools, fostering academic excellence and research. Notable faculties include the Cox School of Business, the Lyle School of Engineering, and the Meadows School of the Arts, all recognized for their strong programs. The teaching approach emphasizes fusing teaching and research into breakthrough experiences, with an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio allowing for strong relationships between students and faculty. SMU also offers interdisciplinary majors within the Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences, such as biochemistry, human rights, and environmental studies.

International Students

SMU defines an international student as any student requiring a visa to live and study in the United States. The International Office (IO) provides a variety of resources and support services for international students and scholars, including advising, visa updates, and cultural integration programs like the International Leadership Program. As of Fall 2020, SMU's international student population was 1,117, representing 83 countries, with 392 undergraduate and 725 graduate students. The university also offers English language proficiency test acceptance for Duolingo English Test, TOEFL, and IELTS.

Campus & Location

SMU's main campus is primarily situated in University Park, extending into the Dallas city limits, and is located on 234 acres of land. Dallas Hall, the university's symbol and centerpiece, is a prominent feature. The campus offers a vibrant student life with over 200 student organizations and various spaces for relaxation and study. The university's location in Dallas provides students with access to a dynamic city known for business, arts, culture, and numerous internship and job opportunities. Public transportation options, such as the DART train, are accessible from nearby Mockingbird Station, offering convenient access to downtown Dallas and its arts district.

Career Outcomes

SMU places a strong emphasis on post-graduation success, with comprehensive career services available to students. The Hegi Family Career Development Center offers career advising, resume reviews, and interview preparation. Graduates often secure competitive jobs across various industries, benefiting from the university's focus on experiential learning, internships, and a robust alumni network that provides job connections and mentorship. The Cox School of Business, for example, reports high employment rates and competitive average starting salaries for its graduates in fields like accounting, finance, and marketing.

Information for International Students at SMU

SMU in Dallas, United States welcomes international students.

• Visa support available
• No on-campus work
• Student housing available
• Work placement / internship opportunities available
• Teaching languages: English

Admissions Requirements for SMU

Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to SMU:

• IELTS minimum: 6.5
• TOEFL minimum: 80
• Duolingo minimum: 110
• GPA minimum: 3.67
• GMAT required
• Application fee: $60
• Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
• Application deadline: January 15

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Programs at SMU (19 programs)

SMU offers 19 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.

Bachelor Programs (8)

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $64,932/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the theoretical foundations of computation and practical techniques for designing, implementing, and analyzing algorithms and software systems.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, Network Engineer
• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) (BBA) — 48 months · English · $64,932/yr
  The BBA program provides a strong foundation in business principles, including finance, marketing, management, and accounting, preparing students for diverse roles in the corporate world.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Marketing Manager, Consultant, Operations Manager
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $64,932/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, covering topics like thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science.
  Field: Mechanical Engineering
  Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Product Designer, Automotive Engineer, Aerospace Engineer
• Bachelor of Arts in Journalism (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,932/yr
  Students learn the principles of news gathering, reporting, writing, and multimedia storytelling across various platforms, preparing them for careers in media and communication.
  Field: Journalism
  Career outcomes: Reporter, Editor, Content Creator, Public Relations Specialist
• Bachelor of Arts in Psychology (BA) — 48 months · English · $64,932/yr
  Students explore human behavior and mental processes through a scientific lens, covering areas like cognitive psychology, social psychology, and developmental psychology.
  Field: Psychology
  Career outcomes: Counselor, Human Resources Specialist, Market Researcher, Social Worker
• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science (BSc) — 48 months · English · $64,932/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the theoretical foundations of computation and practical techniques for designing, implementing, and analyzing algorithms and software systems.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: Software Developer, Data Scientist, Cybersecurity Analyst, Network Engineer
• Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) (BBA) — 48 months · English · $64,932/yr
  The BBA program provides a strong foundation in business principles, including finance, marketing, management, and accounting, preparing students for diverse roles in the corporate world.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: Financial Analyst, Marketing Manager, Consultant, Operations Manager
• Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $64,932/yr · STEM
  This program focuses on the design, analysis, and manufacturing of mechanical systems, covering topics like thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and materials science.
  Field: Mechanical Engineering
  Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Product Designer, Automotive Engineer, Aerospace Engineer

Master Programs (8)

• Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English · $62,000/yr
  The MBA program develops leadership skills and strategic thinking, offering specializations in areas such as finance, marketing, and consulting, to prepare graduates for executive roles.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: CEO, CFO, Consultant, Entrepreneur
• Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSc) — 24 months · English · $40,000/yr · STEM
  This interdisciplinary program combines engineering principles with business management, preparing technical professionals for leadership roles in engineering and technology-driven organizations.
  Field: Engineering Management
  Career outcomes: Engineering Manager, Project Manager, Operations Director, Product Manager
• Master of Science in Data Science (MSc) — 18 months · English · $45,000/yr · STEM
  This program provides advanced training in statistical modeling, machine learning, and data visualization, equipping students with the skills to analyze and interpret complex datasets.
  Field: Data Science
  Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, Quantitative Analyst
• Master of Science in Computer Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $40,000/yr · STEM
  This program combines computer science and electrical engineering, focusing on the design and development of computer hardware and software systems, including embedded systems and computer architecture.
  Field: Computer Engineering
  Career outcomes: Hardware Engineer, Embedded Systems Engineer, Computer Architect, Software Engineer
• Master of Arts in Advertising (MA) — 18 months · English · $38,000/yr
  This program focuses on strategic communication, creative development, and media planning in the advertising industry, preparing students for leadership roles in agencies and marketing departments.
  Field: Advertising
  Career outcomes: Advertising Account Manager, Creative Director, Media Planner, Brand Strategist
• Master of Science in Cybersecurity (MSc) — 18 months · English · $42,000/yr · STEM
  This program provides advanced knowledge and skills in protecting computer systems, networks, and data from cyber threats, covering areas like network security, cryptography, and digital forensics.
  Field: Cybersecurity
  Career outcomes: Cybersecurity Analyst, Security Engineer, Information Security Manager, Penetration Tester
• Master of Business Administration (MBA) (MBA) — 21 months · English · $62,000/yr
  The MBA program develops leadership skills and strategic thinking, offering specializations in areas such as finance, marketing, and consulting, to prepare graduates for executive roles.
  Field: Business Administration
  Career outcomes: CEO, CFO, Consultant, Entrepreneur
• Master of Science in Engineering Management (MSc) — 24 months · English · $40,000/yr · STEM
  This interdisciplinary program combines engineering principles with business management, preparing technical professionals for leadership roles in engineering and technology-driven organizations.
  Field: Engineering Management
  Career outcomes: Engineering Manager, Project Manager, Operations Director, Product Manager

PhD Programs (3)

• PhD in Electrical Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $48,000/yr · STEM
  The PhD program in Electrical Engineering offers advanced research opportunities in areas such as signal processing, power systems, and microelectronics, contributing to cutting-edge technological advancements.
  Field: Electrical Engineering
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Senior Engineer, Innovator
• PhD in Economics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $48,000/yr · STEM
  This program provides rigorous training in economic theory and econometrics, preparing students for academic and research careers in economics and related fields.
  Field: Economics
  Career outcomes: Economist, University Professor, Policy Analyst, Quantitative Researcher
• PhD in Computer Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · $48,000/yr · STEM
  This doctoral program offers advanced research opportunities in various areas of computer science, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and theoretical computer science, contributing to fundamental knowledge and innovation.
  Field: Computer Science
  Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, AI Engineer, Software Architect

Scholarships & Tuition at SMU

Annual tuition for international students: $58,540 – $69,722/year

✅ SMU offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.

Rankings of SMU

• National Ranking: #88 in United States
• QS World University Ranking: #1001
• Times Higher Education (THE): #351
• Ranking tier: Research University
• Research output: Very High

Campus & Facilities at SMU

• Student housing available
• Sports facilities available
• Disability support available
• Campus type: Urban

Key Highlights

• Private R1 research university
• Top Dallas-Fort Worth university
• Strong business, engineering, arts
• Diverse international student body
• Located in University Park, Dallas

Accreditation

• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB International)
• ABET
• American Bar Association (ABA)

Notable Alumni

• Laura Bush
• Kathy Bates
• Rex Tillerson
• Phil Gramm
• Eric Dickerson

Frequently Asked Questions about SMU

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