Southern Methodist University

Dallas, TX

private nonprofitgraduate

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Quick Facts

1911

Founded

Private research university

Type

Doctoral Universities

Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Southern Methodist University

A dynamic R1 research institution, SMU fosters innovation and leadership from its vibrant Dallas campus.

Southern Methodist University (SMU) stands as a prominent private research university, proudly classified as an "R1: Doctoral University" with very high research spending. Located in the bustling University Park area of Dallas, Texas, SMU offers an exceptional educational experience rooted in a rich history, while embracing a forward-looking, non-sectarian approach.

Founded on April 17, 1911, by the Methodist Episcopal Church, South, SMU has evolved to welcome students of all religious affiliations, maintaining its commitment to academic excellence. The iconic Dallas Hall, opened in 1915 and inspired by the University of Virginia's Rotunda, remains the cherished centerpiece of its picturesque 234-acre urban campus, giving rise to the beloved nickname "the Hilltop."

Academically, SMU excels with a comprehensive range of programs, offering over 32 doctoral and 120 master's options across eight distinguished schools, including the Edwin L. Cox School of Business and Dedman School of Law. Students benefit from a vibrant campus life, enriched by the presence of the George W. Bush Presidential Center, and a diverse community dedicated to learning and discovery. With a robust endowment of $2.12 billion and a total student body of 12,544, SMU provides a strong foundation for future leaders.

Key Highlights

✦Designated as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research spending and doctorate production."
✦Founded on April 17, 1911, and now a non-sectarian institution welcoming all religious affiliations.
✦Boasts a significant endowment of $2.12 billion (FY 2024), underscoring its financial strength.
✦Serves 12,544 students (Fall 2025), including 7,545 undergraduates and 4,999 postgraduates.
✦Offers an extensive array of academic pursuits with over 32 doctoral and 120 master's programs.
✦The historic Dallas Hall, built in 1915, serves as the university's enduring symbol and centerpiece.
✦Home to the George W. Bush Presidential Center, dedicated on campus in 2013.

Timeline

1911

Southern Methodist University was chartered on April 17 by the Methodist Episcopal Church, South.

1914

Designated as the connectional institution for all Methodist conferences west of the Mississippi River.

1915

Dallas Hall, the university's first building, opened, and classes officially began.

1987

NCAA administered the 'death penalty' to the university's football program for recruiting violations.

2008

Trustees approved an agreement to establish the George W. Bush Presidential Center on campus.

2013

The George W. Bush Presidential Center was dedicated in a ceremony featuring five U.S. Presidents.

2019

SMU's board filed amended articles of incorporation to eliminate the United Methodist Church's control.

2021

A Dallas County judge ruled in favor of Southern Methodist University in the lawsuit regarding its separation from the United Methodist Church.

🏛️

115 Years

of Excellence