SMU Dedman College Launches Two New Interdisciplinary Academic Offerings for Fall 2026

DALLAS (SMU) - SMU’s Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences will introduce two new interdisciplinary academic offerings beginning in Fall 2026: a Bachelor of Science in Mathematical Economics and a Bio-Entrepreneurship Specialization for Biology majors. The new programs reflect Dedman College’s continued investment in innovative, career-connected education that bridges liberal arts, STEM, research, and entrepreneurship.

“These new offerings were designed around the evolving interests of students and the growing demand for interdisciplinary skills,” said Janan Jayawickramarajah, Elisabeth Martin Armstrong Dean of Dedman College. “They will prepare students to think critically across disciplines, apply quantitative and scientific reasoning to real-world challenges, and pursue meaningful careers in innovation and advanced study.”

New B.S. in Mathematical Economics

The new B.S. in Mathematical Economics integrates rigorous training in economics and mathematics for students interested in the theoretical and quantitative dimensions of economic analysis.

The program combines coursework in microeconomics, macroeconomics, econometrics, calculus, linear algebra, and probability theory, with an emphasis on mathematical modeling, economic theory, and statistical analysis. Students will develop strong analytical and problem-solving skills applicable to careers in finance, economic research, data analytics, and public policy.

Graduates will be well-prepared for advanced study in economics, finance, public policy, or applied mathematics, as well as quantitative roles across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors.

The degree reflects the increasing importance of data-driven decision-making and quantitative expertise across industries and research fields.

New Bio-Entrepreneurship Specialization

Dedman College is also launching a new Bio-Entrepreneurship Specialization for students pursuing a B.S. in Biology. The specialization combines biology with entrepreneurial and innovation-focused coursework to prepare students interested in biotechnology, healthcare innovation, and life sciences startups.

The program responds to growing student interest in interdisciplinary pathways that connect science and business and prepares graduates for careers in biotechnology, healthcare innovation, entrepreneurship, and related fields.

By combining biology with entrepreneurship, students gain the ability to bring scientific ideas to market, navigate intellectual property and commercialization processes, and understand the business models that support innovation in the life sciences sector.

Students pursuing the specialization will complete biology coursework alongside classes in innovation and entrepreneurship offered through the Cox School of Business and the Lyle School of Engineering. The specialization adds nine credit hours beyond the standard biology degree requirements.

Expanding Interdisciplinary Opportunities

The two new offerings align with Dedman College’s broader focus on interdisciplinary education, experiential learning, and preparing students for a rapidly evolving workforce.

Both programs build on SMU’s strengths in research, innovation, and cross-school collaboration while giving students new pathways to connect academic study with professional and societal impact.

Additional information about the new programs and enrollment details will be available through Dedman College and undergraduate admissions later this year.

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SMU is the nationally ranked teaching and research university in the dynamic city of Dallas, and a member of the prestigious Atlantic Coast Conference. SMU’s alumni, faculty and more than 12,000 students in eight degree-granting schools demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit as they lead change in their professions, communities and the world.