Southern Methodist University’s (SMU) East Campus has emerged as a vibrant and innovative hub for academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and student life. Located just minutes from SMU’s main campus, this expansive campus encompasses state-of-the-art facilities, world-renowned faculty, and a thriving community of scholars and students.

Academic Excellence
SMU East Campus houses several distinguished schools and programs, including:
- Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences: Offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in disciplines like anthropology, economics, history, and literature.
- Temerlin Advertising Institute: A leading institution for advertising, marketing, and public relations education, ranked among the top programs in the nation.
- School of Information: A pioneering program in information science and technology, preparing students for careers in data analytics, cybersecurity, and digital media.
- Simmons School of Education and Human Development: Developing future educators and leaders in the fields of education, special education, and counseling.
- Robert S. Folsom Institute for Real Estate: A renowned center for research and education in the real estate industry.
Cutting-Edge Research
SMU East Campus serves as a catalyst for groundbreaking research and innovation. The campus is home to several research centers and institutes, including:
- Center for Research on Embedded Systems: Focuses on the development and application of embedded systems in various industries, such as automotive, aerospace, and healthcare.
- Cybersecurity Research Center: Dedicated to advancing cybersecurity research and training, protecting organizations and individuals from cyber threats.
- Data Science Institute: Explores the intersection of data science and other disciplines, empowering students and researchers to solve real-world problems using data-driven approaches.
- Human Factors Institute: Conducts research on human factors and ergonomics, improving the design and usability of products, systems, and environments.
- Institute for Computational Biology: Uses computational approaches to study biological systems, ranging from molecular interactions to disease mechanisms.
Student Life
SMU East Campus provides a vibrant and inclusive living-learning environment for students. The campus offers a variety of housing options, including traditional dormitories, apartments, and townhomes. Students enjoy access to a wide range of amenities, such as:
- state-of-the-art recreation center
- student union
- dining hall
- Retail and entertainment options
The campus also boasts a thriving student life program, featuring numerous clubs, organizations, and social events. Students can participate in activities ranging from intramural sports to student government to community service.
Data and Statistics
- SMU East Campus occupies over 130 acres.
- The campus houses over 30 buildings, including academic facilities, research centers, and student housing.
- SMU East Campus is home to over 5,000 students and 500 faculty members.
- The campus generates over $500 million in annual research funding.
- SMU is ranked among the top 100 universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report.
Vision for the Future
SMU East Campus is poised to continue its trajectory of growth and innovation in the years to come. The university has recently announced plans to invest $1 billion in the campus, which will include:
- Construction of new academic buildings and research facilities
- Expansion of student housing and amenities
- Creation of a new arts and culture district
- Development of new academic programs and research initiatives
SMU East Campus is the embodiment of SMU’s commitment to academic excellence, cutting-edge research, and student success. The campus serves as a vibrant hub for education, innovation, and community engagement, shaping the future of higher education and beyond.
Tables
| School/Program | Academic Offerings | Research Focus |
|---|---|---|
| Dedman College of Humanities and Sciences | Undergraduate and graduate programs in humanities and social sciences | History of the American South, digital humanities, neuroscience |
| Temerlin Advertising Institute | Bachelor’s and master’s programs in advertising and marketing | Brand management, digital marketing, public relations |
| School of Information | Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in information science and technology | Data analytics, cybersecurity, digital media |
| Simmons School of Education and Human Development | Bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs in education and human development | Teacher education, special education, counseling |
| Research Center/Institute | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| Center for Research on Embedded Systems | Embedded systems design, embedded software, cybersecurity |
| Cybersecurity Research Center | Cybersecurity analytics, intrusion detection, threat intelligence |
| Data Science Institute | Big data analysis, machine learning, artificial intelligence |
| Human Factors Institute | Ergonomics, human-computer interaction, product design |
| Institute for Computational Biology | Computational biology, bioinformatics, systems biology |
| Student Housing Options | Amenities |
|---|---|
| Traditional dormitories | Single and double occupancy rooms, shared bathrooms, laundry facilities |
| Apartments | One- to four-bedroom apartments, private bathrooms, kitchens |
| Townhomes | Two- to three-bedroom townhomes, private bathrooms, kitchens, living areas |
| Campus Features | Amenities |
|---|---|
| Recreation center | Fitness equipment, swimming pool, basketball courts, tennis courts |
| Student union | Meeting rooms, study spaces, dining options, entertainment venues |
| Dining hall | Breakfast, lunch, and dinner options, including a wide variety of cuisine |
| Retail and entertainment options | Coffee shops, restaurants, stores, movie theater |
