In recognition of the need to prepare a growing number of professionals for the opportunities and challenges demanded by the increasingly complex global market, SMU continues to expand its offering of Master degrees by coursework and research. By strengthening its research capabilities SMU builds on its international reputation as a leading research university. It also distinguishes itself as a tertiary institution that is able to provide specialised postgraduate education relevant to market and industry needs.

SMU launched its postgraduate programmes in 2002 with the introduction of the Master of Science in Applied Finance. The first intake was 21. This group has grown to 152 in the current academic year and rises to over 220 when combined with the students enrolled in the Master of Applied Finance (China). The MSc in Applied Finance (China) follows the model of SMU’s landmark Applied Finance programme and is unique and specialised in the context that it offers an understanding of the characteristics of the Chinese market.

The SMU MBA is only one of 11 Master degrees offered at SMU and its introduction follows a number of proven and successful programmes offered by coursework in Wealth Management, Professional Accounting, IT in Business (Financial Services) and Applied Economics. The Master of Science by research – Economics, Finance, Management and Operations Management – is an intensive programme designed to equip graduates with in-depth knowledge in their selected discipline for a career in academic research, teaching or as a professional practitioner. Once completed, the MSc gives postgraduate students the advanced knowledge they need for competitive entry into an SMU or overseas PhD programme. The two PhD programmes currently available at SMU are the PhD in Economics and PhD in Information Systems. These programmes influence academic research and industry practices, and therefore benefit SMU’s reputation as a distinct research and teaching university. There are currently 420 postgraduate students enrolled in the 13 different programmes. These students are supported by more than 200 faculty and the Graduate Studies Office.