Southern Methodist University Undergrad Profile | CollegeXpress

Southern Methodist University

Dallas, TX

Southern Methodist University

Dallas, TX

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Undergrad Science & Engineering Campus Culture International Transfer

A nationally ranked private university located near the heart of Dallas, SMU is a distinguished center for global research and teaching.

SMU is a nationally ranked comprehensive research university in the dynamic city of Dallas. SMU’s alumni, faculty, and 12,000+ students in eight degree-granting schools demonstrate an enterprising spirit as they lead positive change in their professions, their communities, and the world.

Be a world changer
Southern Methodist University is ranked in the top 20% of national universities by U.S. News & World Report. By drawing on the resources of Dallas, a larger-than-life city that’s a magnet of opportunity, SMU offers intellectually rigorous academics to our ambitious and motivated students. Our small classes are driven by personal attention from caring, experienced faculty mentors who will advance your academic goals and inspire you to dream big. Our vibrant campus is small enough for you to pursue a variety of academic disciplines and large enough to accommodate more than 100 majors and 85 minors. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classifies SMU as a university with “higher research activity.” Here you will be surrounded by scholars from around the globe. You’ll participate in hands-on research, make connections with successful alumni, have access toworld leaders, and position yourself for success in a variety of careers. 

SMU’s more than 12,000 diverse, high-achieving students come from all 50 states and over 80 countries to take advantage of the University’s small classes, meaningful research opportunities, leadership development, community service, international study, and innovative programs.

SMU serves approximately 7,000 undergraduates and 5,000 graduate students through eight degree-granting schools: 
• Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences
• Cox School of Business
• Lyle School of Engineering
• Meadows School of the Arts
• Simmons School of Education and Human Development
• Dedman School of Law
• Perkins School of Theology 
• Moody School of Graduate and Advanced Studies

Your journey starts here
Southern Methodist University is ranked in the top 20% of national universities by U.S. News & World Report. SMU offers intellectually rigorous academics to our ambitious and motivated students. Our small classes are driven by personal attention from caring, experienced faculty mentors who will advance your academic goals and inspire you to dream big. Our vibrant campus is small enough for you to pursue a variety of academic disciplines and large enough to accommodate more than 100 majors and 85 minors. The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching classifies SMU as a university with “higher research activity.” Here you will be surrounded by scholars from around the globe. You’ll participate in hands-on research, make connections with successful alumni, have access to world leaders, and position yourself for success in a variety of careers. 

Now in its second century of achievement, SMU is recognized for the ways it supports students, faculty, and alumni as they become ethical, enterprising leaders in their professions and communities. 

SMU’s relationship with Dallas offers unique learning, research, social, and career opportunities that launch students into global impact.By drawing on its connection with Dallas, a larger-than-life city that’s a magnet of opportunity, SMU offers unique advantages for students and alumni. With more than 20 Fortune 500 company headquarters in the DFW metroplex and exclusive access to internships, networking and career opportunities, students can build meaningful connections that will set them up for success long after graduation.

ACCOLADES

 

Ranked in the top 20% of “Best National Universities” | U.S. News & World Report 2026

 

SMU graduates earn 71% more than the national average salary for college graduates | College Factual 2025

 

The Dallas area is named the #1 “Big City for Jobs” | Forbes

Quick Facts

• The average class size is 22 students, and SMU has an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio.
• SMU offers 100+ majors and over 85 minors with opportunities for students to personalize and maximize their academic experience.
• SMU graduates ranked in the top 4% of all four-year U.S. universities for median earnings four years after graduation
• Recognized in the top 5% for colleges with the best bachelor degree programs.
• SMU is located on a 234-acre main campus in Dallas, affectionately known by Mustangs as The Hilltop. SMU Taos sits on has a 423-acre satellite campus in the mountains of Northern New Mexico. 


Mustang Day Events

Bring your unbridled ambition to the Hilltop and spend the day experiencing SMU. At Mustang Day, you'll explore the academic programs that interest you, tour campus, hear directly from current students, and discover the many ways you can shape your SMU experience.

Throughout the day, you'll have time to ask questions, learn more about the admission process, and see the opportunities that start in Dallas and extend far beyond. Come ready to explore, connect, and enjoy a day on campus. We'll show you what's possible at SMU.

Upcoming Events: 
• Monday, October 12, 2026 at 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM
• Friday, November 13, 2026 at 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM

An Inside Look

What students are saying about us...

  • “The school pride and community are incredible at SMU. We are all proud to be Mustangs and genuinely love our school.”

    • Jake Greene
      Majors: Finance and Markets and Culture
      Minors: History
      Hometown: Richmond, Virginia
  • “SMU offers fantastic opportunities for students to connect with and contribute to the Dallas community. From internships to volunteering around the community, SMU students are welcomed with open arms.”

    • John David Clark
      Major: Finance
      Hometown: Carmel, Indiana
  • “SMU was my perfect decision. One of my favorite memories is giving a campus tour to SMU Board of Trustees Chair Robert H. Dedman, Jr.”

    • Abby Johnson
      Majors: Biology and Mathematics
      Minors: Chemistry
      Hometown: Phoenix, Arizona
  • "I have been able to excel inside and outside of the classroom by not saying no to the challenges that have come up along the way. Additionally, my experiences at SMU and my internship have taught me that your title is just that, but the work you do is much greater."

    • Ian Perkins-Smith
      Majors: Mechanical Engineering and Physics
      Hometown: Richardson, Texas