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

    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?

Upcoming events

  • Mustang Mentors: Coffee & Connection

    Thursday, December 04, 2025, 8:30amPrivate Location (sign in to display) ☕ Coffee & Connections Join us for Mustang Mentors’ monthly Coffee & Connections in the Scholars’ Den! Enjoy coffee, bagels, and casual conversation ...

  • Apply by 12/15: Engaged Learning Fellowship

    Friday, December 05, 2025, 9:00amOnline Event Apply to the Engaged Learning Fellowship to win up to $2500 for your research, creative, or service project. Details at smu.edu/ELF

  • Morning Nature Walk

    Friday, December 05, 2025, 10:00amPrivate Location (sign in to display) Stressed from the semester? Lets go for a nature walk and take our mind off of everything to do with class. The Laura Bush Texas Native Park is the...

  • Scholars' Den Coffee Break

    Wednesday, December 10, 2025, 11:00amPrivate Location (sign in to display) Take a Coffee Break at the Scholars Den Grab a free coffee and recharge to power through your finals! Treat yourself to flavors like Lavender,...

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