SMU at a glance
- Top-tier research university – recognized among the nation’s top research universities by Carnegie Classification’s highest R1 designation
- ACC member institution – competing at the highest level of collegiate athletics
- 12,500+ students – from all 50 states and 90+ countries
- Dallas advantage – access to a global business hub, top‑five media market and thriving innovation ecosystem
- High‑performance computing – one of the most powerful academic large-scale computing environments in the region
- Global impact – research that matters, creative work and alumni that shape industries and communities worldwide
- Leadership – developing principled, enterprising leaders prepared to make meaningful contributions around the world
Why students choose SMU
SMU enrolls more than 12,500 high‑achieving students from all 50 states and more than 90 countries. Students benefit from close interaction with distinguished faculty, transformative research opportunities, innovative academic programs and the unparalleled advantages of studying in Dallas – one of the nation’s leading centers for business, technology, culture and innovation.
The University serves approximately 7,500 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students through eight degree‑granting schools:
- Cox School of Business
- Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences
- Dedman School of Law
- Lyle School of Engineering
- Meadows School of the Arts
- Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies
- Simmons School of Education and Human Development
- Perkins School of Theology
SMU advances high-impact research that addresses complex challenges and creates meaningful benefits for society. Powered by interdisciplinary collaboration, advanced computing, data science and strong partnerships with industry, government and community organizations, the University is expanding discovery and innovation across a wide range of fields. SMU’s high-performance computing ecosystem, together with Dallas’ innovation networks, including Pegasus Park and emerging bioscience, AI and digital manufacturing hubs, provides an exceptional environment for research with national and global impact.
The University also competes at the highest level of collegiate athletics as a proud member of the prestigious Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC). Membership in the ACC reflects the University’s rising national profile and commitment to excellence in both academics and athletics. At SMU, student-athletes don’t just compete — they prepare to lead and win in every facet of life. From championship facilities and elite coaching to nationally ranked academics and Dallas connections that open doors everywhere, Mustangs have everything they need to win on the field, in the classroom, and in life.
SMU prepares principled leaders through academic excellence, innovative teaching, impactful research and an exceptional student experience. Located in the heart of Dallas, the University provides unparalleled opportunities for learning, discovery, innovation and career success.
SMU graduates earn among the nation’s highest starting salaries and hold leadership roles across industries — from pro sports and business to media and innovation.
SMU is nonsectarian in its teaching and committed to academic freedom, open inquiry and the pursuit of knowledge that serves society.