Pathways to Business and Industry

There are numerous paths to a career in business or industry on the Hilltop.

You can find success in business without a business degree. At SMU, there are majors housed in all five of the undergraduate schools including Meadows School of the Arts, Lyle School of Engineering, Cox School of Business, Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences, and Simmons School of Education and Human Development, as well as business-focused clubs and organizations, that provide the foundation for a business or industry career.

 

 

Set your plan in motion! Application opens Oct. 1

Each semester, we accept a cohort of students interested in exploring the many pathways and many majors to a career in business or industry. Students who join the cohort will receive additional advising to develop their personalized pathway outside of majoring in business. Each students' pathway will be holistic, incorporating academics, career development, and extracurriculars to support their interests and post-graduation goals. Participation in this program does not guarantee entry into any specific major program, nor is it the same as applying to the Cox School of Business.

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Apply Here

Our key partner departments

Assistance navigating Pathways to Business & Industry is available to all SMU students through the partner departments listed below. Partner staff will guide students through the process of goal discovery and achievement while providing students with support, enrichment, resources, and strategies to help set their pathway in motion.


University Advising Center & academic offerings Blanton Building with fountain in foreground and clouds in background

University Advising Center & academic offerings

The University Advising Center (UAC) supports and assists pre-major students as they navigate their academic careers and help identify and select academic paths that will support students’ future career goals. Explore majors and learn about UAC support here. 

Contact:
UAC Front Desk 
Phone: 214-768-2291
Email: advising@smu.edu


Hegi Family Career Development Center Student and recruiters conversing over resume

Hegi Family Career Development Center

The Hegi Family Career Development Center equips students to cultivate meaningful lives through career development, continuous learning, and professional growth. We provide relevant opportunities for students to gain skills that position them for professional success.

Contact: 
Hegi Career Center Front Desk
Phone: 214-768-2266
Email: hegicareercenter@smu.edu

Big iDeas Student standing in a group holding their winning checks up

Big iDeas

The Big iDeas program in the Office of Engaged Learning (OEL) hosts pitch competitions and provides training and coaching for entrepreneurial projects. Undergraduate students of any major are welcome to participate.

Contact: 
Big iDeas program
Phone: 214-768-4788
Email: bigideas@smu.edu


Upcoming business-focused events