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Postgraduate Programmes

Programmes
Disciplines
Postgraduate Level
Master’s
Master’s
Master’s
Master’s
Master’s
Master’s
Master’s
Master’s
Master’s
Master’s
Master of Science in Business AI (MBAI)Lee Kong Chian School of BusinessMaster’s
Master’s
Master’s
Master’s
Master’s
Master’s
Master’s
 
Master’s
PhD
PhD
PhD
PhD
PhD
PhD
PhD
PhD
PhD
PhD
PhD
PhD
Professional Doctorate
Professional Doctorate
Professional Doctorate
Professional Doctorate
Professional Doctorate
Professional Doctorate
Professional Doctorate
Professional Doctorate
Master by Research
Master by Research
Master by Research
Master by Research

Not seeing what you want? 

Explore the list of  Undergraduate programmes or the Professional & Continuing Education options.

Types of Postgraduate Programmes

SMU offers a wide spectrum of postgraduate pathways — from Master’s degrees to PhD research programmes, Professional Doctorates and Masters by Research. Each is designed to meet different aspirations, whether you are deepening expertise, advancing leadership, or pursuing discovery. Explore the full range of programmes through their dedicated websites to find the one that fits your journey.

Unsure what kind of programmes are suitable? 
Learn about the difference between the PhD and Doctorate programmes.

Powering Partnerships for a Better Tomorrow

We forge alliances across people, public, and private sectors to co-create solutions that reimagine education, grow businesses, and nurture communities.

Join us in transforming the future of higher education and beyond.

Continue browsing, or start by choosing one of the following that matches your profile:

Why Partner with SMU

Industry-Ready Talent Pipeline

Connect with more than 13,000 talent with global perspectives

Workforce Development

Equip your workforce with the skills needed to stay ahead of the curve and enhance your organisational capabilities

Impactful Research

Harness our expertise to develop sustainable solutions for growth and operational efficiency

Knowledge Transfer and Commercialisation

Fast-track your innovation with SMU's licensed deep-tech and cutting-edge solutions

Global Network

Access our wide global networks of 60,000 alumni, 300+ partner universities, and 3 overseas centres

Your tailored partnership experience begins here.

Take a short quiz to discover how your organisation can partner with SMU.

News & Events

Undergraduate Programmes

Not seeing what you want? 

Explore the list of  Postgraudate programmes or the Professional & Continuing Education options.

Vision

Asia’s premier global city university
At the nexus of management, social sciences and technology
Driving innovations, transcending boundaries, transforming lives

Mission

Nurture a community of independent lifelong learners and change agents

Enable world-class researchers to address societal challenges

Harness partnerships to serve as gateway between Asia and the world

Transform lives to create sustainable futures

Asia's Premier Global City University

Singapore Management University (SMU) is Asia’s premier global city university at the nexus of management, social sciences and technology. Established in 2000, the University's vision foregrounds its DNA in driving innovations, transcending boundaries and transforming lives. SMU's mission is to nurture a community of independent lifelong learners and change agents, enable world-class researchers to address societal challenges, harness partnerships to serve as gateway between Asia and the world, and transform lives to create sustainable futures.

Recognised for its award-winning pedagogy, SMU’s interactive, collaborative and practice-oriented education prepares graduates to be agile, adaptive and ready to create meaningful impact across business, government and society. SMU graduates are consistently ranked among the most employable in Singapore, and command one of the highest mean starting salaries.

SMU offers a future-oriented suite of undergraduate, postgraduate professional and postgraduate research programmes through six schools and two colleges: School of Accountancy, Lee Kong Chian School of Business, School of Economics, School of Computing and Information Systems, Yong Pung How School of Law, School of Social Sciences, College of Integrative Studies, and College of Graduate Research Studies. Their programmes include multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary pathways that reflect the complex challenges of today’s world.

SMU’s research is rigorous, high-impact and interdisciplinary, addressing globally relevant issues from an Asian perspective. Its faculty also collaborates with leading researchers, universities, industry, government and community partners to advance knowledge, shape policy and practice, and deliver real-world solutions.

Located in the heart of downtown Singapore, SMU’s city campus strengthens its strategic linkages with business, government and the wider community, enabling the University to turn ideas into action and create impact where it matters.

Our Students*

10,294
Full-time undergraduates
3,766
Full-time & part-time postgraduates

Our Graduates*

28,097
Undergraduate alumni
15,692
Postgraduates alumni

* as of 15 September 2025

Photo: Aerial view of SMU Campus

SMU at a glance

#5

Globally among Specialist Universities 
derived from QS World University Rankings 2027

13,330*

Undergraduate and part-time postgraduate students

*As of 11 September 2023

407*

Globally diverse faculty

*As of January 2023

2nd in Asia and 24th Worldwide
by QS 2024 Business Master’s Rankings

3rd in Asia and 27th Worldwide
by QS 2024 Executive MBA Rankings
5th in Asia 
by QS 2025 Global MBA Rankings
THE Awards Asia 2025 - Teaching & Learning Strategy of the Year

THE Awards Asia 2025 
- Teaching & Learning Strategy of the Year

Reimagine Education Awards - Gold Winner
SMU’s Co-Curricular Transcript wins Gold
at QS Reimagine Education Awards 2025
The Straits Times - Singapore Best Employers 2026
The Straits Times 'Best Employers 2026'

A diverse community that transcends borders and bridges global perspectives

Students

The University’s international students come from India, China, ASEAN countries, Europe, North America, Africa, the Middle East, Maldives, Japan and South Korea. SMU has over 300 partner universities spanning 50 countries for exchange programmes, giving students 100% opportunities to participate in a global exposure programme.

62%

Postgraduates from 51 countries*

9%

Undergraduates from 35 countries*

* as of 12 September 2022

Faculty

SMU focuses on producing rigorous, high-impact, multidisciplinary research on Asian issues with global relevance. SMU faculty collaborate with leading researchers and universities from the USA, Europe, China, and India, as well as business and public sector partners, through its research institutes, centres, and labs.

407

Full-time faculty

38%

International faculty#*

33

Different nationalities*

* as of 3 January 2023
# non-Singapore Citizens and non-Singapore Permanent Residents

SMU Annual Report to Stakeholders

Read all about a year of progress and success at SMU. The concise review is divided into sections on SMU’s transformative education, impactful research and role as a city university, together with a Sustainability Report and Financial Review. 

Browse through the AY 2024/2025 edition or download a past edition to read offline.

Our Focus Areas

SMU’s research tackles real-world challenges with academic rigor—building resilient workforces, longevity-ready societies, and sustainable cities. Guided by an impact framework and partnerships that harness data and AI, our focus spans three pillars: Sustainable Living, Digital Transformation, and Growth in Asia.

Learn more about each pillar and join us in creating meaningful impact.

Latest Research News

SMU’s research focuses on impactful, interdisciplinary areas such as digital transformation, sustainable living, growth in Asia—driving solutions that address complex global challenges and shape the future of society.

Photo: SMU has the largest solar power plant in Singapore's city center, equivalent to the size of 1.5 soccer fields, and providing approximately 10% of its overall energy. 

Programme Admissions

Explore our programmes, entry requirements, application timelines, scholarships, and student life—all in one place to guide undergraduates, postgraduates, and international students through the admissions journey with confidence.

If you are interested in short-term adult-learning courses, visit our Professional & Continuing Education page.

Discover Your Next Chapter at SMU Masters Day

Explore how an SMU postgraduate degree can elevate your career, expand your network, and open doors to global opportunities — all in one transformative afternoon.

Get a taste of SMU’s signature interactive seminar classes during Open House.

Financing your Studies

SMU offers financial assistance through scholarships, bursaries, and loans to support students. These programmes help make education more accessible and affordable. Additionally, SMU provides tuition fee payment plans and subsidies for needy students, ensuring a diverse and inclusive learning environment. Financial Matters options are available for both local and international students.

Programmes

We offer multidisciplinary programmes that promote holistic learning, diverse perspectives, and innovative thinking to shape adaptable, future-ready leaders.

Discover the Pathways to SMU Postgraduate and Professional & Continuing Education

Explore SMU’s Postgraduate and Professional & Continuing Education offerings through the digital flipbook. Find programmes that support new skills, professional development, and career advancement.

SMU Professional and Continuing Education

Discover SMU's Human-centred AI in Education Strategy

Learn how SMU is shaping responsible, human-centred use of AI in education, learning and academic work.

SMU Professional and Continuing Education

Discover the Pathways to SMU Postgraduate and Professional & Continuing Education

Explore SMU’s Postgraduate and Professional & Continuing Education offerings through the digital flipbook. Find programmes that support new skills, professional development, and career advancement.

SMU Professional and Continuing Education

Colleges & Schools

Steer your education to chart a new future. SMU’s interactive pedagogy, distinguished teaching and multidisciplinary research strategically connect with society, business, government in Singapore and beyond, empowering you to make a real impact.

Photo: SMU Yong Pung How School of Law

Institutes, Centres, Labs and Initiatives

SMU’s institutes, centres, and labs (ICLs) drive impactful research across strategic themes. They foster cross-disciplinary collaboration to tackle complex global challenges, while practice-oriented entities partner with government and industry to enrich student learning and deliver applied projects with societal value.

Practice and Outreach Units

SMU’s Practice and Outreach Units connect academia with industry, driving collaboration, applied research, professional development, and community engagement across disciplines.

Start with a STEP. End with an IMPACT.

Walk, run or cycle over 10 days from 12–21 September 2025 to reach our goals of 25,000 KM travelled and $500,000 raised.

Be part of our SMU-wide movement that transforms every kilometre into opportunity. 

Each registration is $30.  For the SMU community, please refer to your emails for special discount codes.


The race period runs from 
12 Sep 0:00 to 21 Sep 23:59 Singapore Time

0 Days
0 Hours
0 Minutes

SMOO Challenge 2025 Activities

12 - 21 September

SMOO Challenge Virtual Race

12 September

SMOO Challenge Flag-Off (In-Person) & SMU Amazing Race

13 September

SMU Alumni Homecoming 1: A-SMOOzing Race

1 July - 30 September

Fundraising

FLAG-OFF EVENT

12 September  |  4 - 6:30 PM  | SMU Campus Green

Get ready to launch SMOO Challenge 2025 in the most exhilarating, high-energy Flag-Off Event.

Come join us as we mark the ocassion with booths, stage performances, fringe activities and the highly-anticipated SMU Amazing Race.

Start With A Step. End With An Impact.

A Movement That Moves Us All

SMOO Challenge is SMU’s signature fundraising movement, inviting alumni, students, faculty and friends to move for a cause.

This year, it marks a milestone: our 25th anniversary and a renewed commitment to impact, resilience, and giving.

Since 2020, the challenge has made significant strides.

1,500,000

SGD Raised

173

Students Supported

3370

Participants

With SMOO Challenge 2025, let’s keep this shared spirit of purpose and camaraderie going — as SMU President Professor Lily Kong reflects:

“It's an inspired journey fueled by heart, purpose, and the belief that we go further when we go together.” 

Professor Lily Kong, SMU President

Track The Impact

Watch us move toward 25,000 KM and $500,000 raised, together.

Every dollar. Every kilometre. Every moment counts.

$551,079 of $500,000 Raised

42,403.14 of 25,000 KM Travelled

as of 21 September 2025

Why Join?

  • To contribute to an amazing and meaningful cause
  • To promote healthy living
  • To bond with family and friends
  • To win a prize from the long list of awards: like the Extreme Awards, Community Awards and Lucky Draw Prizes - details to be announced closer to the date

Why Give?

At SMU, we believe talent should never be limited by circumstance.
As we mark our 25th anniversary, the SMOO Challenge is more than a movement — it’s a mission to keep education accessible, equitable, and community-driven.

Your Participation helps fund:

Study Awards for more than 50 students in financial need

Access to holistic university experiences

A future where no student gets left behind

Contributions of minimum $20 will qualify for 2.5x tax deductions.

Janice's Story

When a family crisis nearly forced Janice Sui (BAcc 2024) to leave SMU, financial aid gave her the strength to stay. She went on to lead student groups, secure top internships — and graduate with pride.

How To Participate

Your 4-Step Guide to the SMOO Challenge

Sign Up

Register solo or rally your crew—teams can have up to 50 members.

Move Your Way

Walk, run, or cycle. Track your distance using any fitness app.

For more details, check out our FAQ Section at the bottom.

Donate For Impact

Further the scale of your impact by donating here or by supporting any of our SMOO Ambassadors 

Share The Journey

Document your progress and experiences. 

Post your pictures underneath the hashtag #SMOOChallenge25 to spread the word and inspire others.

How To Sign Up​​​​​​​

1. Register

Start your journey by registering yourself.

2. Your Method

Choose how you'd like to take part — you can ​walk/run, or cycle to clock your distance

3. Your Details

Complete the registration form with your details​.

4. Payment

Make payment to complete your registration​.

Registration fee: 
$30 per participant

“SMU students, alumni, staff, and faculty – please check your email for your special discount.

How To Submit Your Activities

Strava Automatic Submission

Your Strava account should be connected to your event account

or

Manual Submission

Submit screenshots from the GPS fitness tracking app with the date, distance, and timing clearly captured

SMOO Ambassadors

From students to alumni to staff — these ambassadors are walking, running, and cycling with purpose.

Click on their names to support their fundraising efforts.

Each ambassador is rallying their network to raise funds and create opportunities for SMU students in need.

Explore their stories here:

Moments That Moved Us

Over the years, the SMOO Challenge has sparked more than just movement — it’s created memories, forged friendships, and funded real futures.

From cross-campus treks to community-driven campaigns, these moments capture the heart of what SMU stands for: purpose in motion.

Here are some of our favourite highlights from SMOO Challenge 2023: 

Stay up to date with our favorite community moments of 2025 through our social media channels:

FAQ & Contact

For questions about the SMOO Challenge 2025 — including registration, fundraising, or participation — please refer to this full FAQ section.

Registration

SMOO Challenge 2025 is open to the SMU Community of students, staff, faculty and alumni, and the public.

The registration period is from 15 July 2025 - 21 September 2025.

You may register here. You will receive an email confirmation upon successful registration. Note: Registration closes 21 September 2025.

Yes, you can participate in the race as long as you track your run using a distance-tracking app, and submit the distance clocked. You may register here

However, please note that purchase of race tees is only eligible for local deliveries in Singapore.

No. Each participant must register individually using the registration form. Each participant will require a unique email address for their registration and to clock their distance towards SMOO Challenge.

You may register here. Please refer to your email for special discount codes.

No. You have the option to participate in SMOO Challenge as an individual or as a member of a team.

You can choose to either create your own team or join an existing team. Visit your personal details page and click on ‘Join/View Team’.

A team should consist a minimum of 2 participants, and a maximum of 50 participants.

Yes, you can change teams. Login to your 42race profile > Click ‘Join/View Team’ > On your current team page, click on ‘Setting’ > ‘Leave Team’ > then create or join a new team.

No - you can only join one team per registered category.

Please contact us at contact@42race.com for assistance. Kindly include your name and contact number and we will get back to you within 1 to 3 business days. 

No. You cannot change your race tee size after you have registered and made payment.

Additional purchases are only available onsite at SMOO Challenge Flag-Off (In-Person) happening on 12 September 2025.

In the case of changed personal particulars or sign up errors, please contact us at contact@42race.com for assistance. Kindly include your name, registration number, email address, and contact number and we will get back to you within 1 to 3 business days.

Participants aged 18 years and below must have parental or guardian consent.

Virtual Race Mechanics

You can submit your activities via automatic submissions through Strava (please ensure your Strava account is connected to your event account) or manual submissions (please submit screenshots from the GPS fitness tracking app with the date, distance and duration clearly captured).

Yes. Our platform allows cumulative submissions of any distance during the race period from 12-21 September 2025. You do not need to complete the entire distance at one go. In fact, you may also clock more distance than you signed up for! 

For instance, you may complete more than 25km (walking/running) or 50km (cycling). 

The 5 milestones for the walk/run category are: 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 km. The milestones for cycling are: 10, 20, 30, 40 and 50 km. ​​​​​​​

You should submit your distances immediately after you have completed the walk/run/cycle. Please do not submit weekly distances. Your screen capture should include distance achieved (in KM), date of run/walk/cycle, and time taken to complete the activity.

No. You are required to run/walk/cycle and clock your distance within the 12-21 September 2025 race period only. Early submissions will not be accepted.

We are pleased to update that 42Race is now entirely web based. Thus you do not need to download any apps to participate in SMOO Challenge 2025.

Physical Events (12 SEP)

SMOO Challenge Flag-Off & SMU Amazing Race 

Yes! Do indicate your attandance during your registration for SMOO Challenge 2025.

SMU Amazing Race 2025 is open to all SMU staff, faculty, and students.

There will be two categories: (a) Staff/Faculty to form teams of 5 members, and (b) Students to form teams of 5 members.​​​​​​​

To register for SMU Amazing Race, please indicate your interest during your registration for SMOO Challenge 2025. Due to limited capacity, only the first 200 students and first 200 staff/faculty registrants will be confirmed for the SMU Amazing Race.

There is no registration fee to sign up for SMU Amazing Race. However, there is a registration fee for SMOO Challenge 2025 - SGD25 for SMU Staff/Faculty and SGD12 for SMU students - which will go towards the SMU Bursary Fund.

No. Your participation in SMOO Challenge 2025 is required to indicate your interest to participate the SMU Amazing Race. Do look out for the perks (for staff/faculty or students) that come along with signing-up for SMOO Challenge!

Successful registrants of the SMU Amazing Race will receive a confirmation email by mid-August 2025.

Yes, you will need to form a team of 5 members to participate in the SMU Amazing Race after your registration is confirmed.

Yes, however staff/faculty will receive prizes allocated for the student category should the team wins.

If you have successfully registered for the SMU Amazing Race, a limited edition of SMU Amazing Race tee will be given to you for FREE! You will need to wear the T-shirt during the race day (12 September 2025), for ease of identification as a racer.

Replacement of Racer can be made until 8 September 2025 (Monday).  No replacement shall be allowed on Race Day except on medical grounds. The replacement Racer, if any, shall receive the T-shirt size according to the Racer replaced as the T-shirt order will have been placed in advance.

You are not allowed to withdraw once your registration is confirmed. You will incur a SGD50 penalty if you do so.

Yes, there are exclusive prizes for winners of the SMU Amazing Race. In addition, all SMU staff/faculty participants of the SMU Amazing Race will receive a SGD30 participation e-voucher.

Prizes will be released by the SMU Amazing Race Team 2 weeks after the race.

Please consult your doctor to ascertain if you are fit to participate for a physically vigorous activity before registering. By registering, you acknowledge and accept full responsibility for your own health and safety during SMU Amazing Race. No refunds will be provided.

Team members must be finalised before registration. However, in exceptional circumstances and with a valid reason, changes to team members may be considered on a case-by-case basis. Please contact the organising committee to request the change before the AR registration deadline.

Yes! Friends and family from outside of SMU are more than welcome to cheer you on at Campus Green. They are also eligible to join in our SMOO Challenge Flag-Off fringe activities if they register for SMOO Challenge 2025.

Yes. Family members are welcome to be a part of SMU Alumni Homecoming 1 and your A-SMOOzing Race team. However, only SMU Alumni who have registered for SMOO Challenge will receive the giveaways.  

Physical Events (13 SEP)

 SMU Alumni Homecoming 1

To register for SMU Alumni Homecoming 1, please select “13 Sep 2025, 8.30am - 12.00pm, SMU Alumni Homecoming 1” as the session that you are interested in attending physically, during your SMOO Challenge 2025 registration.  

To register for SMU Amazing Race, please indicate your interest during your registration for SMOO Challenge 2025. Due to limited capacity, only the first 200 students and first 200 staff/faculty registrants will be confirmed for the SMU Amazing Race.

There is no registration fee for SMU Alumni Homecoming 1. There is only one registration fee (SGD25) for SMOO Challenge 2025 which will go towards the SMU Bursary Fund.  

No. Registration for SMOO Challenge 2025 is required to participate in SMU Alumni Homecoming 1.  

Yes, all successful registrants of SMU Alumni Homecoming 1 will be guaranteed a spot for the event. The Office of Alumni Relations (OAR) will follow up separately with you to confirm your team, team members, and participation details.

Expect an A-SMOOzing Race, a scavenger hunt, and plenty of steps as you reconnect with fellow alumni during this annual celebration.

You are encouraged to form a team of five fellow alumni to fully participate in the Alumni Homecoming 1: A-SMOOzing Race.  

If you require assistance in forming a team, please contact Mr Zac Cheng at zaccheng@smu.edu.sg. 

Yes, you can still participate in SMU Alumni Homecoming 1 as there is also a scavenger hunt that will help you clock your first few kilometers.  

The first 200 registered SMU alumni participants of the Alumni Homecoming 1 will receive a complimentary T-shirt at the event.  

Replacement of team members can be made until 8 September 2025 (Monday).  No replacement shall be allowed on event day except on medical grounds.  

If you have joined a team and cannot make it, please inform the Team Leader early so that a replacement can be found. The replacement team member, if any, shall receive the T-shirt intended for the replaced team member.

If no replacement member can be found, the team may proceed with A-SMOOzing Race with less than 5 members. Alternatively, the team may join another team or invite individual participants to form a combined team of no more than 5 members.

If you are the Team Leader, please inform your teammates and appoint a replacement team leader. 

Yes, you can withdraw from the SMU Alumni Homecoming 1. Please do let us know if this is the case for more accurate planning of resources. You will remain registered for SMOO Challenge and may continue to clock your steps/distance until 21 September 2025.

Please consult your doctor to ascertain if you are fit to participate in physical activities before registering. By registering, you acknowledge and accept full responsibility for your own health and safety during SMU Alumni Homecoming 1.  

Team members must be finalised before registration. However, in exceptional circumstances, changes to team members may be considered. Please contact Mr Zac Cheng at zaccheng@smu.edu.sg before the registration deadline of 8 Sept 2025.

Yes. Family members are welcome to be a part of SMU Alumni Homecoming 1 and your A-SMOOzing Race team. However, only SMU Alumni who have registered for SMOO Challenge will receive the giveaways.  

Yes. SMOO Challenge is a virtual campaign so you can participate from anywhere in the world. Please register here.  

SMU Alumni Homecoming 1 is an in-person event held on SMU Campus in Singapore. To participate, you would need to be physically present. If you are planning to be in Singapore on 13 September, feel free to register and join us!

If you are unable to visit Singapore, we would like to encourage you to organise your own SMOO Challenge event with fellow alumni in your city. Email us at alumni@smu.edu.sg and share your plans with us. 

Awards & Prizes

Form a team (min 2 pax, max 50 pax). The Community Award goes to the running team and cycling team that have clocked the furthest distance collectively. Make sure your distances are submitted within the same day of completing the activity.

Any submissions deemed to be fraudulent will not be counted towards the overall distance accumulated. Decisions made by SMU are final.

​​​​​​​The Extreme Award goes to the top male and female runners as well as top male and female cyclists who have clocked the furthest distances. Participants are allowed to participate in both walk/run and cycle categories. Make sure your distances are submitted within the same day of completing the activity.

Any submissions deemed to be fraudulent will not be counted towards the overall distance accumulated. Decisions made by SMU are final.

For participants walking and/or running, complete 25km minimally in order to achieve all 5 milestones, and qualify for the draw.

For cyclists, complete 50km minimally in order to achieve all 5 milestones, and qualify for the draw.

Participants are allowed to participate in both walk/run and cycle categories. You will thus have two chances to win the Finisher Prizes.

Make sure your distances are submitted within the same day of completing the activity. Any submissions deemed to be fraudulent will not be counted towards the overall distance accumulated. Decisions made by SMU are final.

The draw will be held a week after SMOO Challenge 2025 has ended.

SMU WOW will also be providing exclusive prizes for SMU Staff and Faculty who qualify for the Finisher Prize.

We will announce the winners of the Finisher Prizes, Extreme Award and Community Award through our email and on SMOO Challenge's Facebook and Instagram in October 2025. SMU will be contacting winners for more details on prize collection.

Others

Payment for registration fees and race tees are strictly non-refundable.

Yes, you can. Simply donate through our giving.sg page. All proceeds will go towards the SMU Bursary Fund to help students in financial need.

Yes, you can. Please contact our friendly Office of Advancement team via smoochallenge@smu.edu.sg to discuss.

Yes, you can. Please contact our friendly Office of Advancement team via smoochallenge@smu.edu.sg to discuss.

Need help?​

For technical issues (e.g. activity tracking, distance uploads), contact 42Race at contact@42race.com​.

For event or donation-related enquiries, reach out to smoochallenge@smu.edu.sg

Platinum Sponsors

Gold Sponsors

Silver Sponsors

Bronze Sponsors

Organisers

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25 years of impact

An inspired journey

 

For 25 years, SMU has inspired innovative education, cutting-edge research, and engaged partnerships.
Together, we're shaping a digital, sustainable Asia.

2000

SMU established with Ho Kwon Ping as founding Chairman
Singapore’s third university, launched with the Lee Kong Chian School of Business (LKCSB) and a distinctive pedagogy that championed personalisation, collaboration, and experiential learning.
LKCSB has since become a top global business school – 1st in Singapore and 2nd in Asia for research impact (Financial Times); its Master of Science in Wealth Management is 1st globally for Value for Money and 1st in Asia in the QS Masters in Finance Rankings 2025.

First university in Singapore to introduce community service as a graduation requirement
Each undergraduate completes at least 80 hours of community service.
To date, SMU students have contributed over 4.28 million hours across 14,000+ projects in 40 countries, making a significant social impact.

2001

School of Accountancy established
Launched a four-year accountancy programme that develops accounting professionals grounded in business and societal contexts.
Now globally recognised for research excellence – ranked 2nd worldwide for Archival Financial Research in Accounting and awarded ICAEW’s Most Outstanding Higher Education Institute (2017-2019, 2021-2024).

2002

Wee Kim Wee Centre launched
Named in honour of Singapore’s fourth President, SMU’s first centre was launched to foster dialogue on cultural and ethical issues.
Hosted over 350 global speakers, engaging more than 20,000 participants through forums like the Big Questions series.

School of Economics and Social Sciences established
The School of Economics (SOE) was originally part of the School of Economics and Social Sciences established in 2002. It was restructured in 2007 to allow for deeper focus on economics teaching and research.
Ranked 1st in Asia and top 10 globally for Econometrics Research by the Tilburg University Economics Schools Research Rankings (2016-2020), SOE is internationally recognised for research excellence.

Lee Kuan Yew Global Business Plan Competition
Named after Singapore’s founding Prime Minister, the competition sparks deep-tech innovation and is in its 12th edition in 2025.
Connecting SMU students with tomorrow’s changemakers to spark friendship and collaboration, while supporting ventures that have raised over US$1 billion to scale their impact globally.

2003

School of Information Systems established
With a distinctive blend of applied IT, business, and social sciences, the School of Information Systems was established. In 2021, it was renamed the School of Computing and Information Systems (SCIS) to better reflect its expanded scope and evolving focus on Computer Science.
SCIS is ranked 4th globally for research in software engineering according to CSRankings (2015 - 2024). Its Master of IT in Business programme has been placed highly for 7 consecutive years in the QS Business Masters Ranking in Business Analytics, and is currently 2nd in Asia.

2004

First graduating class
338 students became SMU’s first alumni class.
SMU graduates have gone on to consistently rank among Singapore’s most employable graduates, with one of the highest starting salaries.

2005

SMU moved to the city
By moving to the heart of business, culture, and government, SMU created a vibrant campus where learning extends beyond the classroom through real-world engagement and industry collaboration.
The move paved the way for SMU to grow into six schools and two colleges, deepen ties with industry and enrich the student learning experience.

2007

School of Law established
Established in 2007 and renamed in 2021 after Chief Justice Yong Pung How, the School of Law offers interdisciplinary LLB, Juris Doctor, LLM and PhD programmes to prepare future-ready lawyers.
In 2025, clinched Singapore’s first victory in 24 years at The Philip C. Jessup International Law Moot Court Competition, the oldest and largest international moot competition in the world, building on a strong track record in international moots.

School of Social Sciences (SOSS) established
Formerly part of School of Economics and Social Sciences, SOSS was restructured to sharpen its focus on psychology, sociology and political science, equipping students with interdisciplinary insights and skills to address complex societal issues.
Introduced the Politics, Law and Economics major in 2016 that was the first of its kind in Singapore.

2009

Institute of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (IIE) launched
A launchpad to support and nurture startups and entrepreneurs.
To date, IIE has nurtured over 560 startups, raising more than US$575 million, and won Best Incubator Programme & Co-Working Space at the ASEAN Startup Awards in 2024.

2015

Centre for Research on the Economics of Ageing (CREA) established
CREA was established to study the economic well-being of older adults in Singapore, with one of the fastest ageing populations globally. In 2020, CREA was renamed the Centre for Research on Successful Ageing (ROSA) to reflect a broader, interdisciplinary direction, studying multiple dimensions of well-being.
CREA pioneered one of the world’s largest high-frequency longitudinal surveys on ageing, the Singapore Life Panel®(SLP). ROSA has extended the SLP into its 10th year and provides critical insights that shape national ageing policies.

SMU-X Programme started
Launched the award-winning SMU-X learning model, combining theory with hands-on industry projects. SMU-X Overseas was introduced in 2018 as an extension for students to work on real-world projects beyond Singapore.
With 6,000+ industry projects and 1,000+ industry partners, the programme has garnered global recognition –
Times Higher Education Awards in 2025, Green Gown Awards in 2024 and QS Reimagine Education Awards in 2024, 2023, 2022, 2021, 2019, 2016.

2017

SMU Academy set up
A lifelong learning professional training arm that offers over 1,500 programmes from short courses to modular pathways and higher degrees.
Trained over 160,000 professionals with future-ready skills and introduced Singapore’s first stackable applied postgraduate degree in 2023 – Industry Practice Master of Digital Economy.

2018

Global exposure as a graduation requirement
Mandated global exposure for all undergraduates, recognising the invaluable opportunity for international networking, intercultural understanding and a global vision.
Achieved 100% student participation, spanning over 50 countries and more than 150 cities, enriching students’ global perspectives.

2020

SMU Connexion opened
Singapore’s first net-zero energy building in the city centre that provides next-generation learning spaces that boast flexibility and future adaptability.
With Connexion added to the rest of SMU’s existing rooftop solar farms, the University is now the largest solar power plant in Singapore’s city centre. It also achieved the Building and Construction Authority Green Mark Platinum (Zero Energy) award in 2019.

Singapore Green Finance Centre (SGFC) established
Singapore’s first Centre of Excellence dedicated to driving Asia-focused green finance research and talent development.
SGFC advances international ESG standards through the Impact-Weighted Accounts Framework and the MOOC Introduction to Sustainability and Sustainable Finance, helping corporations and investors across Asia make informed, sustainable decisions.

2022

College of Integrative Studies (CIS) and College of Graduate Research Studies (CGRS) launched
CIS introduced the first fully customisable degree in Singapore. CGRS launched to advance interdisciplinary postgraduate education.
Lending leadership in higher education in delivering interdisciplinary learning.

Sustainability Blueprint
Launched an institution-wide sustainability commitment aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and SG Green Plan.
SMU won two International Green Gown Awards in 2024 – Sustainability Institution of the Year and Next Generation Learning and Skills. It was ranked 18th globally in the QS World University Rankings: Sustainability 2025 (Environmental Sustainability lens, Environmental Impact Category).

First Overseas Centre set up in Jakarta
Regional expansion with the establishment of the first overseas centre in Jakarta (2022), followed by Bangkok (2023) and Ho Chi Minh City (2024).
Deepened partnerships and regional impact, expanding SMU’s influence internationally.

2023

New Chairman Piyush Gupta appointed
Former CEO of DBS Group and one of Asia’s most transformative leaders, Piyush Gupta succeeded as SMU’s second Chairman. He builds on a strong foundation with renewed momentum and a focus on purposeful innovation. 
Shaping SMU’s next chapter as the quintessential Asian university by focusing impact of education and research on real-world outcomes.

Co-Curricular Transcript introduced
Recognised students’ developmental achievements beyond academics.
Starting with the Class of 2025, graduates will receive transcripts that reflect their intellectual and creative skills, interpersonal skills, global citizenship, and personal mastery – competencies that are valued across industries and in society.

2024

Urban Institute launched
The Urban Institute advanced interdisciplinary research to deliver meaningful impact through the study of Asian cities.
Tackles pressing challenges in urban infrastructure, urban growth and urban life.


OUR VISION


Asia's premier global city university
At the nexus of management, social sciences and technology
Driving innovations, transcending boundaries, transforming lives
 

OUR MISSION

 

Nurture a community of independent lifelong learners and change agents
 
Enable world-class researchers to address
​​​​​​​societal challenges
Harness partnerships to serve as gateway between Asia and the world
 
Transform lives to create sustainable futures

E D U C A T I O N

For 25 years, SMU has redefined education by offering innovative programmes like guaranteed second majors, global exposure for all students, and the opportunity to design individualised majors. Our award-winning pedagogy SMU-X provides experiential learning opportunities that connect theory with practice. These initiatives have set us apart as trailblazers in higher education.

A trailblazer in education, nurturing highly-sought after, industry-ready graduates.
100% of our students graduate with:

Global Exposure

Building independence and
real-world experience

Internships

Enhancing practical experience and
industry-ready skills

Community Service

Nurturing responsibility and integrity

Research

R E S E A R C H

SMU's cutting-edge research addresses critical societal challenges. From Cooling Singapore initiative, to supporting successful ageing and greening data centres, our work impacts Singapore, Asia, and the world.

A strong tradition of world-class research, turning insights into real-world impact. 
Some of our research accolades include:

1st and 2nd

in Singapore and Asia respectively for FT Business Research rankings*

*Financial Times Aggregated Research Ranking 2024

1st

globally for accountancy
archival research^

^BYU Accounting Research Rankings 2021

2nd

globally for research in
software engineering#

#CSRankings 2023

I M P A C T F U L  E N G A G E M E N T


​​​​​​​At SMU, impactful engagement means turning commitment into action. We embed sustainability in our practices, drive high-impact innovation through industry and institutional partnerships, and champion excellence and inclusion beyond the classroom. Through these initiatives, we empower individuals and communities, shaping sustainable futures for all.

Our accolades and initiatives:

International Green Gown Awards 2024

Sustainability Institution of the Year

Launched over 50

Sustainability and environmentally-focused education courses

4.3 million

Community service hours clocked by SMU students to date

14,000+

Community service projects completed across 40 countries

E N T R E P R E N E U R S H I P

SMU has cultivated a vibrant innovation ecosystem. Protégé Ventures, Southeast Asia's first student-led venture capital fund, has invested nearly US$250,000 in 11 startups and evaluated over 1,300 deals, with four founders recognised in Forbes 30 Under 30. Through our Business Innovations Generator (BIG), we've incubated over 500 startups, which collectively raised US$555 million and built over US$3 billion in enterprise value.

A catalyst for entrepreneurial success, cultivating a vibrant innovation ecosystem.
Some of our real-world successes include:

Over 500 startups

SMU Business Innovation Generator incubated over 500 startups since 2009

US$3 Billion

SMU founders collectively built startups worth more than US$3 billion in value

US$555 Million

Startups incubated by SMU have collectively raised close to US$555 million since 2009

ASEAN Startup Awards

Regional Winner,
Best Incubator /
Accelerator Program

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