Southern Methodist University

61.4

College Consensus
•AVERAGE: 69

41.5

Publisher Consensus
•AVERAGE: 58.7

81.3

Student Consensus
•AVERAGE: 76.9

Publisher Ratings

65.6

U.S. News - National Universities

34.4

Forbes

Wallethub

Wall Street Journal

Student Reviews

91.4

U.S. News - Reviews

82.8

Grad Reports

77.1

Niche

73.9

My Plan

Scores last updated on January 6, 2024

52%

Percent Admitted

73%

4-year Graduation Rate

12,053

Enrollment

11.0:1

Student-to-Faculty Ratio

$35,270

Average Undergraduate Students Aid

$61,980

In-State Tuition and Fees

$61,980

Out-of-State Tuition and Fees

= Average

Sector

Private not-for-profit, 4-year or above

Carnegie Classification

Doctoral Universities: High Research Activity

Religious Affiliation

United Methodist

Source: National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS)

Southern Methodist University is a private 4-year school located in the University Park section of metropolitan Dallas, TX. SMU also has 2 satellite campuses in Plano, TX and Taos, NM. Founded in 1911 by the Methodist Episcopal Church, SMU is currently owned by the South Central Jurisdiction of the United Methodist Church. The 225+ acre campus features traditional collegiate red brick architecture and a large quad facing Dallas Hall. The campus also hosts the George W Bush Presidential Library, which opened in May 2013. Many US Government politicians have graduated from SMU, as well as former First Lady Laura Bush. Among other notable alumni is TV and film producer Aaron Spelling.

Academic Programs

Southern Methodist University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges and offers Bachelor’s Degrees, post-baccalaureate Certificates, Master’s Degrees, post-masters Certificates and Doctorates in over 100 majors. While noted for Psychology, Theology, Art & Design, Music, Dance and Theatre, the largest programs on campus are in Business, Social Sciences, Engineering and Communications. Presently, there are only a few courses and 2 graduate programs available online. The university has a robust study abroad program. Per the Mission statement, “Southern Methodist University will create, expand, and impart knowledge through teaching, research, and service, shaping world changers who contribute to their communities and excel in their professions in a global society. Among its faculty, students, and staff, the University will cultivate principled thought, develop intellectual skills, and promote an environment emphasizing individual dignity and worth. SMU affirms its historical commitment to academic freedom and open inquiry, to moral and ethical values, and to its United Methodist heritage.”

Student Life

There are over 6300 undergraduate students enrolled in Southern Methodist University, many living on campus among the many dormitories, theme houses and suites available. The school sponsors over 200 clubs and student organizations including club sports and intramurals. For the varsity athlete, the SMU red and SMU blue Mustangs field teams in 10 sports and participate in NCAA Division I-A competition. During the football season, tailgating for home games is a large-scale event called “Boulevarding” and has become a favorite tradition for the home crowd. As part of SMU’s Second Century strategic plan, the school focuses on these six specific goals: Enhance all major components of academic quality to strengthen SMU’s stature in the higher education community. Build upon the tradition of inspired teaching as it promotes engaged and interdisciplinary learning. Strengthen capabilities to conduct research and promote creative achievement. Enhance the quality of life for students and their social and moral development, citizenship, and leadership as potential world changers. Broaden global perspectives in the University’s academic and student life programs. Provide effective financial stewardship.

Cox School of Business