Engaged Learning

Connecting SMU students with learning experiences through capstone-level research, service, internships, creative and entrepreneurial projects.

The Office of Engaged Learning (OEL) empowers undergraduate students to expand their learning beyond the classroom through experiential programs.

Our comprehensive offerings include funding, mentorship, coaching, and networking opportunities allowing students to showcase their work and connect with peers in their field. The Engaged Learning Fellowship (ELF), Undergraduate Research Assistantships (URA), Big iDeas, and Clinton Global Initiative University (CGIU) are among the programs offered by OEL. Additionally, we coordinate the Summer Research Intensive (SRI) and programming for the National Science Foundation (NSF) Research Experiences for Undergraduates (REU). OEL also coordinates the Mustang Mentors peer mentoring program and the Pathways to Business and Industry initiative. 

Inspiring, Engaging and Connecting Students

Take your learning to a higher level.

Get involved

  • Engaged Learning Fellows luncheon 2019

    Engaged Learning Fellowships

    Engaged Learning Fellowships (ELF) allow undergraduate students to design and pursue capstone-level projects in research, service, and creative activity.

    Make your mark

  • Big iDeas Madison McMahon pitching

    Big iDeas

    The Big iDeas program hosts pitch competitions and provides training and coaching for entrepreneurial projects. Undergraduate students of any major are welcome to participate.

    Think Big

  • Mustang Mentors

    We match incoming Mustangs with upper-division peer mentors who share their academic interests, hobbies, and goals for the future.

    Get connected

Make a gift to the Office of Engaged Learning

It costs approximately $2500 to fund a student project. Want to make a difference in a student's career?

Upcoming events

  • Big iDeas Application Deadline: September 17

    Wednesday, July 15, 2026, 1:00pmPrivate Location (sign in to display) The Big iDeas Business Plan Competition is SMU’s annual pitch event for undergraduate entrepreneurs ready to take their ideas to the next level....

  • Scholars Den Study Night

    Friday, September 04, 2026, 5:00pmPrivate Location (sign in to display) Study. Snacks. Scholars Den. Those three things just go together - just add Students and we have a Four-of-a-Kind - Turner Scholar? Log your...

  • Big iDeas: Ideation Session

    Tuesday, September 08, 2026, 4:00pmPrivate Location (sign in to display) Are you thinking about about applying to pitch in the Big iDeas Business Plan Contest? Come join the Big iDeas Entrepreneurship Fellow and receive...

  • Big iDeas: Ideation Session

    Wednesday, September 09, 2026, 2:00pmPrivate Location (sign in to display) Are you thinking about about applying to pitch in the Big iDeas Business Plan Contest? Come join the Big iDeas Entrepreneurship Fellow and receive...

News and announcements