Experiential Learning at Cox

At SMU Cox, we believe you'll be best prepared to capitalize on your education if it combines rigorous classroom learning with the kinds of experiences that let you test what you've learned and approach job interviews with the confidence that gives you an edge.

Hands-On Learning

Whether you’re analyzing a stock portfolio or pitching a startup, you’ll turn classroom knowledge into real world action. With your campus as your laboratory and Dallas as your proving ground, you'll have opportunities to pursue research and service, as well as internships in job-friendly Dallas. Plenty of Cox BBA alumni turned intern opportunities into employment offers on graduating.

Study and Work Abroad

In business, a global perspective isn’t optional — it’s essential. SMU opens the door to the wide world with study abroad programs in more than 150 countries. From faculty-led courses at Oxford University, to immersive programs in China, Bali and beyond, Cox gives your business education an international edge.

See SMU abroad options

Global Business

We live in a rapidly globalizing world. Whatever opportunities you follow post-graduation, you'll need to understand how the rest of the world works. You'll have plenty of opportunities to build global experience at Cox — your way.

  • Soak up a full slate of lectures, seminars and symposia that deliver a global perspective.
  • Conduct independent overseas research on a Richter Fellowship.
  • Get on the fast track to business capitals around the globe with a summer internship in London, Sydney or Dublin.
  • Take your can-do spirit on the road with an immersive study abroad program.
  • Bolster your BBA coursework with a double major in international studies.
  • Add a minor in Spanish, Mandarin, French or any of the 11 languages offered at SMU.

With cosmopolitan Dallas as your launchpad, Cox is where you’ll become a global citizen.

Engaged Learning

You’re out to change the world. Cox will give you the tools to do it. Whether you’re conducting research, creating a business or piloting an international project, SMU’s EngagedLearning program connects you with campus-wide resources, guidance and even funding opportunities to bring your idea to life. You’ll graduate with sophisticated, hands-on knowledge that puts you ahead of the pack.

Highlight: The Clinton Global Initiative

Kovan Barzani (BBA ‘17) found his calling as a boy in Plano, Texas, where he helped his Kurdish mom learn English. At the Cox School, he discovered the perfect platform for his empathy and drive. With support and guidance from the Clinton Global Initiative University Network, an Engaged Learning initiative, Kovan partnered with the International Rescue Committee to teach literacy and technology skills to local refugees. He also developed a network of donors to provide laptops, desktops and other electronic equipment to the nonprofit, ultimately serving more than three dozen families.

See more Engaged Learning Stories

SMU in Taos

Enhance your coursework — and your adventurous spirit — at SMU’s 423-acre campus in Taos, New Mexico. Offering credit-bearing classes during summer and winter breaks, SMU-in-Taos follows an experiential learning model that emphasizes hands-on, small group collaboration. The beautiful setting in Carson National Forest doubles as a base camp for unforgettable cultural and recreational explorations.

See what you can do at SMU in Taos