Focus areas
- Marketing & Communication
- Business Analytics, Data & AI
- Entrepreneurship & Innovation
- Finance & Banking
- HR & Organizational Behavior
Location
Accreditations
Number of programs
Singapore Management University (SMU) commenced its curriculum in 2000 with the School of Business, which welcomed its pioneer cohort of students in August 2000. In 2004, the Lee Foundation contributed S$50 million to SMU in honour of the late Dr Lee Kong Chian, a well-known Southeast Asian businessman, philanthropist and community leader. In recognition of the Lee Foundation's generosity, SMU named in perpetuity the School of Business, the building and the university-wide scholars programme after Dr Lee Kong Chian.
Today, Lee Kong Chian School of Business (LKCSB) is a dynamic Asian business school with about 5,500 students and over a hundred full-time faculty members with postgraduate degrees from renowned universities such as Cornell, Harvard, INSEAD, Oxford, Stanford and Yale. The school offers undergraduate, master's (including MBA and EMBA) and doctoral programmes and is affiliated with a number of research centres such as the Institute of Service Excellence and the Centre for Marketing Excellence.
In 2011, LKCSB first received both the AACSB (Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) accreditation and a five-year EQUIS (European Quality Improvement System) accreditation. For both accreditations, the School has the distinction of being one of the youngest schools in the world to be accredited. In 2016, LKCSB successfully renewed its 5 year accreditation for EQUIS and in 2021, a 5 year accreditation for AACSB. In 2018 the school was accredited by AMBA , LKCSB is one of the youngest schools in the world to have the triple crown accreditation.
Ranked 10th in Asia (Financial Times Global MBA Ranking 2022), the SMU MBA is designed to equip executives and managers with the skills and mindset to thrive in this disruptive landscape.
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Very diverse from students to professors - something everyone benefits from especially when stepping out into the ‘real’ world.
Very practical and open minded professor. Also people are proud of being part of SMU. I know some friends who did part time MBA. I felt that SMU has more intense course due to time limit (1yr).
Very open culture. Professors invite classroom interaction.
I loved the diversity of backgrounds
Diverse and Multicultural Environment
The LKCSB community is celebrated for its diversity, welcoming students from over 30 different countries. This multicultural atmosphere enriches the learning experience, allowing students to engage with diverse perspectives. For example, the SMU Global Learning Program encourages students to participate in study exchanges and internships abroad, fostering cross-cultural understanding and international friendships. Events like International Day, where students showcase their cultures through food, performances, and exhibitions, promote a sense of belonging and appreciation for various backgrounds.
Collaborative Learning Environment
Collaboration is a cornerstone of the LKCSB experience. Classes are often conducted in a seminar style, encouraging active participation. A notable example is the Case Study Method employed in courses like Business Strategy, where students work in groups to analyze real business challenges and present solutions. This collaborative approach not only enhances critical thinking but also helps students build strong relationships. Initiatives like the Peer Mentoring Program pair first-year students with senior mentors, fostering collaboration and guidance as they navigate their academic journey.
Active Student Life
LKCSB boasts a vibrant student life, with over 50 student-run clubs and organizations that cater to a wide range of interests. For instance, the Finance Society organizes workshops, competitions, and networking events with industry professionals, while the Entrepreneurship Society hosts pitch competitions and startup weekends to encourage innovation among students. Events like the SMU BizWeek feature various activities, including business competitions, workshops, and talks by industry leaders, providing students with opportunities to showcase their skills and connect with peers.
Strong Industry Connections
SMU has established strong ties with industry partners, facilitating valuable networking opportunities for students. The SMU Career Services team actively collaborates with leading companies to organize events such as career fairs and networking sessions. For example, the SMU Career Fair connects students with top employers, allowing them to explore internship and job opportunities. Additionally, guest lectures by industry leaders, such as those hosted by the Lee Kong Chian Professorship, give students insights into current business trends and challenges, enhancing their understanding of the real-world business landscape.
Commitment to Social Responsibility
The Lee Kong Chian School of Business emphasizes social responsibility and ethical leadership. Students are encouraged to engage in initiatives that promote social change and community service. One notable example is the SMU Social Impact Project, where students collaborate with non-profit organizations to address societal issues through research and consulting. The Sustainability Committee also organizes events like the Sustainability Week, which raises awareness about environmental issues and encourages students to participate in sustainability initiatives.
Supportive Campus Environment
The LKCSB community prioritizes student well-being and personal development. The school offers various support services, including academic advising and counseling. For instance, the SMU Wellbeing Services provide workshops and resources focused on mental health, stress management, and personal development. The SMU Student Life Office also organizes events like Wellness Week, promoting a balanced lifestyle and encouraging students to prioritize their well-being.
Strong Alumni Network
The LKCSB alumni community is active and supportive, providing valuable mentorship and networking opportunities for current students. The SMU Alumni Association organizes events such as alumni networking sessions and mentorship programs, allowing students to connect with graduates who are leaders in various industries. Events like the Alumni Homecoming offer students a chance to engage with alumni and gain insights into their career paths, fostering a sense of community that extends beyond graduation.
Personalized Academic Advising
SMU provides personalized academic advising to help students navigate their educational journey. Each student is assigned an academic advisor who assists them in course selection, degree planning, and career pathways. For example, students often have one-on-one sessions with their advisors during the first few weeks of their first semester to discuss their academic goals and course load. This tailored approach ensures that students receive guidance that is specific to their individual needs and aspirations.
Comprehensive Career Services
The Career Services team at SMU is particularly strong, offering a range of resources to prepare students for the job market. One standout initiative is the Career Fair, held twice a year, where students have the opportunity to meet with representatives from top companies across various industries. Additionally, the Career Development Program includes workshops on resume writing, interview skills, and personal branding, helping students build essential job-seeking skills. An example of this is the "Mock Interview Day," where students participate in practice interviews with industry professionals to receive constructive feedback.
Peer Mentorship Programs
SMU promotes a collaborative learning environment through its Peer Mentorship Program, which pairs first-year students with senior mentors. This initiative helps new students acclimate to university life and provides guidance on academic challenges. For instance, mentors often organize informal meetups and study sessions, where they share study tips and experiences from their own academic journeys. This program not only enhances the sense of community but also encourages students to seek help and support from their peers.
Mental Health and Wellness Support
The SMU Wellbeing Services offer extensive mental health and wellness support to students. One notable program is the "Mental Health Awareness Week," which includes workshops, talks, and activities aimed at promoting mental health awareness and destigmatizing mental health issues. Additionally, students have access to confidential counseling services where they can discuss personal or academic concerns with trained professionals. Events like "Mindfulness Mondays" offer students a chance to practice mindfulness and stress relief techniques, fostering a culture of well-being.
Academic Workshops and Learning Resources
LKCSB organizes regular academic workshops and learning resources to support student success. For example, the Learning Support Services provide workshops on academic writing, study skills, and exam preparation. The "SMU Writing Centre" specifically offers personalized feedback on academic writing assignments, helping students improve their writing skills and achieve better academic results. These resources are particularly beneficial for students transitioning from high school to university-level writing expectations.
Access to Industry Insights
The school hosts numerous guest speaker sessions and industry panels where students can learn directly from professionals. For instance, the "Leaders in Business" series features industry leaders who share their experiences and insights into current market trends. This not only enriches students' understanding of real-world applications of their studies but also provides networking opportunities that can lead to internships or job offers. Students often have the chance to ask questions and engage with these leaders, making the experience highly interactive and valuable.
Strong Alumni Support
The LKCSB alumni network plays a crucial role in supporting current students. The SMU Alumni Association regularly organizes events where alumni return to share their career experiences and insights. One such event, the "SMU Alumni Networking Night," allows students to connect with graduates in their desired fields, fostering mentorship opportunities. Alumni often provide guidance on career development, offer internships, or even recruit students for their companies, creating a bridge between current students and the professional world.
Some content on this page may utilize AI for structuring and ideation, with human oversight for accuracy, or may be sourced from Singapore Management University: Lee Kong Chian School of Business's website.
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