Southern Methodist University
Dallas, United States • Founded 1911 • World Rank #1240
Overview
Established in 1911, the Southern Methodist University is a non-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the metropolis of Dallas (population range of 1,000,000-5,000,000 inhabitants), Texas.
Officially accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a large-sized coeducational US higher education institution formally affiliated with the Christian-Methodist religion. Southern Methodist University (SMU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees and doctorate degrees in several areas of study.
This 113-year-old US higher-education institution has a selective admission policy based on entrance examinations and students' past academic records and grades. The acceptance rate range is 50-59% making this US higher education organization an averagely selective institution.
International applicants are eligible to apply for enrollment.
SMU also provides several academic and non-academic facilities and services to students including a library, housing, sports facilities, financial aids and/or scholarships, study abroad and exchange programs, online courses and distance learning opportunities, as well as administrative services.
Location & Contact
Where Southern Methodist University is located and how to contact its offices. Disability and accessibility information is usually held by a separate student services office worth contacting directly.
Academic Details
Southern Methodist University's student-to-faculty composition and recognition standing are listed below. Student support staff (advisers, counsellors) are typically separate from academic staff and often uncounted here.
Academic Structures
Southern Methodist University's teaching units laid out by faculty and school. Deep hierarchies (faculty to school to department) versus flat structures affect administrative complexity for students.
Unit 7 items
- Annette Caldwell Simmons School of Education and Human Development
- Cox School of Business
- Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences
- Dedman School of Law
- Lyle School of Engineering
- Meadows School of the Arts
- Perkins School of Theology
Programs Offered
Search and filter Southern Methodist University's available programmes by degree level. The list reflects the institution's current catalogue and may not include programmes that are paused or pending approval.
Bachelor's Degree
69 programmes
These 69 programmes make up Southern Methodist University's undergraduate catalogue. A bachelor's degree is the baseline credential for most graduate careers and advanced study.
Natural Resources Conservation and Research Forestry & Natural Resources
Area Studies Social & Cultural Studies
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies Social & Cultural Studies
Communication and Media Studies Communication Studies
Journalism Journalism
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication Public Relations
Computer Science Computer Sciences
Education, General Education & Teaching
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Education & Teaching
Engineering, General General Engineering
Civil Engineering Civil Engineering & Construction
Computer Engineering Electrical Engineering
Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering Electrical Engineering
Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering Environmental Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Mechanical Engineering
Operations Research General Engineering
Electrical and Computer Engineering General Engineering
Engineering-Related Fields General Engineering
East Asian Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics Linguistics & Language Studies
Germanic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics Linguistics & Language Studies
Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics Linguistics & Language Studies
Middle/Near Eastern and Semitic Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics Linguistics & Language Studies
Classics and Classical Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics Linguistics & Language Studies
Non-Professional Legal Studies Law
English Language and Literature, General English Language Studies
Rhetoric and Composition/Writing Studies English Language Studies
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Liberal Arts
Biology, General Biological Sciences
Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology Biochemistry
Mathematics Mathematics
Statistics Mathematics
Medieval and Renaissance Studies Liberal Arts
International/Globalization Studies Liberal Arts
Cognitive Science Liberal Arts
Sustainability Studies Liberal Arts
Data Science Liberal Arts
Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other Liberal Arts
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness Sport and Exercise Science
Philosophy Philosophy & Ethics
Religion/Religious Studies Philosophy & Ethics
Chemistry Chemistry
Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Earth Sciences & Geology
Physics Physics & Astronomy
Psychology, General Psychology
Public Policy Analysis Public Administration
Social Sciences, General Social & Cultural Studies
Anthropology Social & Cultural Studies
Economics Economics
Political Science and Government Politics & International Relations
Sociology Social & Cultural Studies
Dance Performing Arts
Design and Applied Arts Applied Design
Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft Performing Arts
Film/Video and Photographic Arts Film & Animation
Fine and Studio Arts Visual Arts
Music Music
Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management Media Management
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions Rehabilitation Sciences
Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences, Other Health Sciences
Business/Commerce, General Business Administration
Business Administration, Management and Operations Business Administration
Accounting and Related Services Accounting
Finance and Financial Management Services Finance, Banking & Insurance
Management Information Systems and Services IT Management
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods Operations Management
Marketing Advertising & Digital Marketing
Real Estate Business Administration
Insurance Business Administration
History History
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Master's Degree
67 programmes
These 67 programmes form Southern Methodist University's master's offering, combining advanced coursework with independent work that signals readiness for leadership or research.
Natural Resources Conservation and Research Forestry & Natural Resources
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication Public Relations
Graphic Communications Media Studies & Mass Media
Information Science/Studies Information Systems & Technology
Computer Systems Analysis Software Engineering
Computer Science Computer Sciences
Computer Software and Media Applications Digital Media & Game Development
Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management Information Systems & Technology
Bilingual, Multilingual, and Multicultural Education Education & Teaching
Educational Administration and Supervision Educational Leadership
Special Education and Teaching Special Education
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas Education & Teaching
Education, Other Education & Teaching
Engineering, General General Engineering
Civil Engineering Civil Engineering & Construction
Computer Engineering Electrical Engineering
Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering Electrical Engineering
Engineering Science General Engineering
Environmental/Environmental Health Engineering Environmental Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Mechanical Engineering
Systems Engineering Industrial & Systems Engineering
Manufacturing Engineering General Engineering
Operations Research General Engineering
Engineering, Other General Engineering
Electrical/Electronic Engineering Technologies/Technicians General Engineering
Engineering-Related Fields General Engineering
Housing and Human Environments Family & Consumer Science
Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies Law
English Language and Literature, General English Language Studies
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Liberal Arts
Biology, General Biological Sciences
Applied Mathematics Mathematics
Statistics Mathematics
Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution Liberal Arts
Medieval and Renaissance Studies Liberal Arts
Sustainability Studies Liberal Arts
Data Science Liberal Arts
Sports, Kinesiology, and Physical Education/Fitness Sport and Exercise Science
Religion/Religious Studies Philosophy & Ethics
Religious Music and Worship Religious Studies
Theological and Ministerial Studies Religious Studies
Chemistry Chemistry
Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Earth Sciences & Geology
Physics Physics & Astronomy
Psychology, General Psychology
Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology Clinical Psychology
Anthropology Social & Cultural Studies
Economics Economics
Dance Performing Arts
Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft Performing Arts
Film/Video and Photographic Arts Film & Animation
Fine and Studio Arts Visual Arts
Music Music
Arts, Entertainment, and Media Management Media Management
Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences, General Health Sciences
Mental and Social Health Services and Allied Professions Counselling & Psychotherapy
Rehabilitation and Therapeutic Professions Rehabilitation Sciences
Business Administration, Management and Operations Business Administration
Accounting and Related Services Accounting
Entrepreneurial and Small Business Operations Entrepreneurship
Finance and Financial Management Services Finance, Banking & Insurance
Management Information Systems and Services IT Management
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods Operations Management
Marketing Advertising & Digital Marketing
Real Estate Business Administration
Taxation Taxation
History History
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Doctorate
30 programmes
Southern Methodist University's 30 programmes at this tier lead to a doctorate, the credential expected for academic, senior research, and many specialist professional roles.
Computer Science Computer Sciences
Educational Administration and Supervision Educational Leadership
Education, Other Education & Teaching
Engineering, General General Engineering
Civil Engineering Civil Engineering & Construction
Computer Engineering Electrical Engineering
Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering Electrical Engineering
Mechanical Engineering Mechanical Engineering
Systems Engineering Industrial & Systems Engineering
Operations Research General Engineering
Engineering-Related Fields General Engineering
Legal Research and Advanced Professional Studies Law
English Language and Literature, General English Language Studies
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Liberal Arts
Biology, General Biological Sciences
Biomathematics, Bioinformatics, and Computational Biology Biological Sciences
Applied Mathematics Mathematics
Statistics Mathematics
Data Science Liberal Arts
Religion/Religious Studies Philosophy & Ethics
Religious Music and Worship Religious Studies
Theological and Ministerial Studies Religious Studies
Chemistry Chemistry
Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences Earth Sciences & Geology
Physics Physics & Astronomy
Clinical, Counseling and Applied Psychology Clinical Psychology
Anthropology Social & Cultural Studies
Economics Economics
Fine and Studio Arts Visual Arts
History History
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Professional Doctorate
1 programme
Southern Methodist University's 1 programme at this tier lead to a doctorate, the credential expected for academic, senior research, and many specialist professional roles.
Law Law
No programmes match your filter in this level.
Associate, Certificate & Other Qualifications
14 programmes
Southern Methodist University lists 14 programmes outside the standard bachelor-to-doctorate ladder — vocational and pathway awards that often carry credit toward a later full degree.
Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies Social & Cultural Studies
Public Relations, Advertising, and Applied Communication Public Relations
Graphic Communications Media Studies & Mass Media
Special Education and Teaching Special Education
Education, Other Education & Teaching
Computer Engineering Electrical Engineering
Electrical and Computer Engineering General Engineering
Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities Liberal Arts
Peace Studies and Conflict Resolution Liberal Arts
Data Science Liberal Arts
Economics Economics
Music Music
Health and Medical Administrative Services Healthcare Administration
Management Sciences and Quantitative Methods Operations Management
No programmes match your filter in this level.
How to apply to Southern Methodist University
The standard application path for Southern Methodist University, broken into five practical steps with the documents and channels you will need at each stage.
- 1 Find a programme that fits your goals
Southern Methodist University's catalogue includes 181 programmes. Browse by level, identify candidates matching your prior qualifications, and note their entry requirements for the next step.
- 2 Confirm you meet the requirements
Entry requirements vary by programme and degree level. Verify academic minimums, language tests (if international), and any additional documents required for Southern Methodist University's admissions process.
- 3 Assemble your application package
Typical documents include academic transcripts, identity proof (passport or national ID), language proficiency test scores, a personal statement or motivation letter, and recommendation letters. International applicants should account for translation and notarisation time.
- 4 Submit your application
Submit your completed application through Southern Methodist University's official website at www.smu.edu. Most institutions use an online portal — register an account, complete the application form, and upload your prepared documents. Keep copies of all submissions and confirmation receipts.
- 5 Contact admissions and follow up
Follow up to confirm your application was received and is being processed. Reach the institution by phone at +1 (214) 768 2000. Admissions teams may request interviews or additional documents — respond promptly to keep your application active.
Frequently Asked Questions about Southern Methodist University
Short Q&A on the institutional facts that matter most when shortlisting Southern Methodist University as a study destination.
How old is Southern Methodist University?
The institution opened in 1911 (approximately 115 years ago).
In which city is Southern Methodist University?
Southern Methodist University is based in Dallas, United States.
Is Southern Methodist University public or private?
Southern Methodist University operates as a private institution.
How many students study at Southern Methodist University?
Southern Methodist University has approximately 10,000-14,999 students.
How is Southern Methodist University ranked?
Southern Methodist University is ranked #1240 globally and #181 in United States.
What is Southern Methodist University's religious tradition?
Yes, Southern Methodist University is affiliated with Christian-Methodist.
How is Southern Methodist University organised academically?
Southern Methodist University has 7 academic units.
Is Southern Methodist University officially recognised?
Yes, Southern Methodist University is recognised by Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
How do I find Southern Methodist University online?
You can find Southern Methodist University online at www.smu.edu.
Top-Ranked Universities in the United States
Ranking methodologies vary across the United States — national rankings, subject-specific rankings, and international tables can each tell different stories about the same universities.
Members of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA)
Faculty mobility within National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) networks often signals shared standards. Faculty members frequently move between Southern Methodist University and the institutions below over the course of careers.
Other American Universities Affiliated with Christian-Methodist
Religious-text study options and theology programmes appear consistently at Christian-Methodist universities. Southern Methodist University and the peers below often share similar degree offerings in religious studies.
Faculties at Nearby Universities
Other institutions in Southern Methodist University's region offer similar admissions cycles and overlapping subject areas, listed below for comparison. Regional clusters often share employer networks and post-study career pathways.
Where Else to Study Liberal Arts
Programme-led research opportunities for Liberal Arts students differ. Research-active programmes give undergraduates access to active labs; teaching-only programmes do not.
Universities Often Compared with Southern Methodist University
Students considering Southern Methodist University frequently compare it against the universities listed below. The comparison set reflects revealed-preference data from how applicants actually build shortlists.
