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

  • Pathways to Business and Industry Recruiter and student shaking hands at a company booth

    Pathways to Business and Industry

    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.

    Forge your path

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?

Engaged Learning Fellows luncheon 2019
Give today

Upcoming events

  • Lab Hopping

    Thursday, February 12, 2026, 4:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Lab Hopping is an annual event for students to visit open labs and research groups. Faculty, staff, and students in various departments will be on...

  • Coaching Session: Grad School Prep

    Monday, February 16, 2026, 12:00pm — Clements G08 (Scholars Den) Thinking about grad school? Drop in to chat with Dr. Adam Scott Neal about steps to take and materials you'll need to be ready and competitive for...

  • Big iDeas Ideation Session

    Monday, February 16, 2026, 2:00pm — Private Location (sign in to display) Are you thinking about about applying to pitch in the Big iDeas Pitch Contest? Come join the Big iDeas Entrepreneurship Fellow and receive coaching...

  • Coaching Session: Grad School Prep

    Tuesday, February 17, 2026, 12:00pm — Clements G08 (Scholars Den) Thinking about grad school? Drop in to chat with Dr. Adam Scott Neal about steps to take and materials you'll need to be ready and competitive for...

More events

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