Furman University vs Southern Methodist University (SMU)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the key differences in location and campus environment between Furman University and Southern Methodist University?

  Furman University is located in Greenville, South Carolina, offering a more intimate, residential campus experience with a strong emphasis on natural beauty, including its iconic lake. Southern Methodist University (SMU) is situated in Dallas, Texas, providing a more urban and diverse environment with access to a major metropolitan area and its associated opportunities. SMU's campus is also beautiful, but the surrounding environment is distinctly different.

• How do the academic programs at Furman and SMU compare?

  Both Furman and SMU offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Furman is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and emphasis on undergraduate research and close faculty-student interaction. SMU, while also offering a strong liberal arts foundation, has a greater focus on professional schools, including law, business, and engineering, and often has a broader selection of specialized programs due to its larger size and location in a major city.

• What is the student body like at each university?

  Furman University has a smaller student body, fostering a close-knit community where students often know each other. SMU has a larger and more diverse student population, reflecting the demographics of the Dallas metropolitan area. Both universities attract high-achieving students, but the student body at SMU tends to be more diverse in terms of background and interests.

• How does the cost of attendance compare between Furman and SMU?

  The cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is generally comparable between Furman and SMU. However, financial aid packages and scholarships can significantly impact the net cost for individual students. It's recommended to review the financial aid information on each university's website and compare the specific aid offers you receive.

• What are the strengths of Furman University?

  Furman University excels in its strong liberal arts education, beautiful campus, close-knit community, emphasis on undergraduate research, and commitment to student-faculty interaction. It offers a personalized educational experience with a focus on developing well-rounded individuals.

• What are the strengths of Southern Methodist University?

  Southern Methodist University is strong in its professional programs (business, law, engineering), its location in a major metropolitan area providing extensive internship and career opportunities, its diverse student body, and its strong alumni network. It offers a broader range of programs and resources due to its larger size and location.

• How do the extracurricular activities and campus life differ?

  Both universities offer a variety of extracurricular activities. Furman's smaller size often leads to more student involvement in campus organizations. SMU, with its larger student body, has a wider array of clubs, organizations, and Greek life options. SMU's location in Dallas also provides students with access to a broader range of off-campus activities and entertainment.

• Which university is better for someone interested in a specific field, such as business or engineering?

  SMU is generally considered stronger in professional fields like business and engineering due to its well-regarded schools in these areas and its location in a major business hub. While Furman offers pre-professional programs, SMU provides more specialized programs and greater access to industry professionals and internships in these fields.

• How does the alumni network compare?

  Both universities have active alumni networks. SMU's network is larger and benefits from its location in a major city and its strong professional programs, providing extensive career opportunities and connections. Furman's alumni network, while smaller, is known for its strong loyalty and commitment to supporting its graduates.

• What are the admission requirements like for each university?

  Both Furman and SMU are selective institutions. Admission requirements typically include a strong high school transcript, standardized test scores (SAT/ACT, though test-optional policies may be in place), letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. Specific requirements and deadlines can vary, so it's essential to check the admissions websites for the most up-to-date information.