Southern Methodist University

Southern Methodist University (SMU) is a private university located in University Park, a suburb of Dallas, Texas. It was founded in 1911 by the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, but it provides a nonsectarian education. Its eight colleges give students a strong foundation in the humanities and sciences. Notable alumni, which include former First Lady Laura Bush, have pursued prominent careers in politics, film and music, science and more.

It ranks 71 nationally, and has an acceptance rate of 53%, with 80% of students graduating. As it is a private school, tuition stands at $61,980 annually for all students, but 75% of its students receive financial aid. SMU is a smaller school, having about 7,000 undergraduate, and 6,000 graduate students. Over 100 bachelor’s degree programs and over 150 graduate degree programs are offered. SMU follows a semester-based academic calendar, with shorter intersessions as well.

SMU offers a unique residential life. Its Residential Commons provides an environment for students to live, socialize, and study. Some upperclassmen choose to live off campus, as well. More than 25 fraternities and sororities, as well as a highly regarded service program, provide additional living and socializing opportunities. With easy access to Dallas, students enjoy numerous organized programs to engage in Dallas’ booming economy, arts and music scene, and professional sports teams. In 2019, as the Methodist Church affirmed its commitment to the “Traditional Plan,” SMU reaffirmed its status as a “separate corporate entity,” and remained committed to its inclusive values. As such, SMU provides several programs to support the LGBTQ+ community.