Overview
Founded in 1911 by the Methodist Episcopal Church South, SMU opened its doors in 1915 and has grown into a nationally recognized private research university. Located in the affluent University Park enclave of Dallas, SMU is particularly renowned for its Cox School of Business, Dedman School of Law, and the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum located on its campus. The university has cultivated a reputation for producing graduates well-connected to Dallas's business, finance, and political networks.
At a Glance
| Type | Private |
| Location | University Park, Texas |
| Founded | 1911 |
| Total students | 12,500 |
| Student–faculty ratio | 11:1 |
| Acceptance rate | 52% |
| Graduation rate | 80% |
| Average starting salary | $65,000 |
Tuition & Costs (estimates)
| In-state tuition | $62,000 |
| Out-of-state tuition | $62,000 |
| Room & board | $17,500 |
| Average financial aid | $35,000 |
| Students receiving aid | 65% |
Admissions
| SAT range | 1220-1400 |
| ACT range | 27-32 |
| Average GPA | 3.70 |
| Regular deadline | January 15 |
Top Programs
- Business (Cox School)
- Law
- Engineering
- Arts & Performance (Meadows)
- Political Science
Figures are estimates for exploration — verify current costs, deadlines, and requirements on the university's official website.