Turning Theory Into Action
SMU-X courses connect students with real-world partners to solve real-world challenges. Whether they’re undergraduates exploring fresh perspectives or postgraduates deepening their expertise, every SMU-X course is designed to help students apply what they learn in meaningful and impactful ways.
Students work in teams, tackle open-ended problems, and collaborate with mentors from industry and the community.
Along the way, they sharpen their communication, critical thinking, and project management skills, all while creating solutions that matter.
Every SMU-X experience is unique, but the goal remains the same: to empower students with the mindset, skills, and confidence to thrive beyond the classroom.
Testimonial
Shaping Students' Learning
SMU-X courses develop students' career profile and character in the following areas:
Disciplinary, Multidisciplinary & Interdisciplinary Knowledge
Critical Thinking & Problem Solving
Innovation and Entrepreneurial Skills
Collaboration and Leadership
Communication
Intercultural Understanding and Sensitivity
Understanding of the Asian Context
Ethics and Social Responsibility
Understanding of Sustainability Issues
Self-directed Learning
Resilience
Learning Outcomes of SMU-X Courses
Interdisciplinary learning skills
Develop a practical and implementable solution to a real, complex problem
Demonstrate adaptability and resilience
Frequently Asked Questions
1. General Information
The list of SMU-X modules varies each term. Stay updated by checking SMU-X emails, visiting this website, or emailing your query to smux@smu.edu.sg.
SMU-X modules can be mapped under various course areas. Refer to the course catalog for detailed information.
You can visit the SMU-X office on Level 5 of SMU Connexion or email your queries to smux@smu.edu.sg.
All students can take SMU-X modules, subject to any pre-requisites listed in the course outline.
Students can register for SMU-X modules through BOSS Bidding or direct application, depending on the module. Check the course outline for specifics.
2. Unique Features and Benefits
SMU-X is built on an industry project-based experiential learning approach that integrates academic theory with real-world challenges. The program emphasizes:
- Interdisciplinary learning.
- Project-based experiential problem-solving with real organisations.
- Active mentoring by faculty and industry partners.
- A collaborative learning loop for students, faculty, and industry.
Every SMU-X course encourages students to apply their knowledge and skills to address complex issues faced by partner organisations.
Unlike typical modules, SMU-X courses combine academic learning with real-world experience. Students tackle unresolved industry challenges, engage with industry and non-profit partners, and benefit from close mentorship by faculty and practitioners. The focus shifts from teaching to self-driven learning through experiential projects.
Through SMU-X, students:
- Integrate interdisciplinary knowledge to address real-world challenges.
- Develop leadership and adaptability in new environments.
- Cultivate critical and creative problem-solving skills.
- Make sound decisions in complex situations.
- Strengthen teamwork and collaboration skills.
These experiences provide an edge in internships and job applications, enabling students to demonstrate their practical impact and learning outcomes to potential employers.
3. Collaboration and Partners
SMU-X has partnered with over 1,000 organisations, including 3M, Singtel, LVMH, Singapore Airlines, DBS, DFS Singapore, The Ascott Limited, and the Asia-Europe Foundation, among others.
4. Expectations and Skills
Students taking SMU-X courses should possess:
- Time Management: Balancing research, team meetings, and industry feedback within 15 weeks.
- Client Management: Managing expectations and delivering work that satisfies industry partners.
- Conflict Resolution: Addressing and resolving group conflicts constructively.
- Adaptability to Ambiguity: Navigating complex and evolving industry challenges with a positive mindset.
Students typically dedicate 10 hours of out-of-classroom effort weekly (3 hours for self-study and 7 hours for project work), in addition to the 3-hour weekly class session. Significant time is spent meeting with team members, mentors, and industry partners.
1. Project Structure and Processes
Each project typically lasts 12 to 13 weeks and aligns with SMU’s academic calendar:
- Term 1: Mid-August to end-November.
- Term 2: Mid-January to end-April.
Unlike internships, SMU-X projects are scoped to align with academic course objectives and curriculum. Students act as external “business consultants,” tackling real challenges provided by project sponsors. They are not employed as interns or part-time staff in the organisation.
2. Expectations from Project Sponsors
Project sponsors are expected to:
- Provide a resource person to mentor and guide students (approximately 1–2 hours per week). This mentorship can be virtual (e.g., via emails, video calls) or through face-to-face meetings.
- Attend a final presentation by the student team(s) at the end of the term.
- Sign a confidentiality agreement if needed to formalize the sharing and protection of sensitive information during the collaboration.
- Offer constructive feedback to students while ensuring they understand real business challenges.
There are no fees for becoming a project sponsor. However, we encourage sponsors to support incidental project-related costs that students may incur, such as transportation, printing, or survey incentives.
3. Confidentiality and Intellectual Property
Yes, confidentiality agreements can be signed to protect sensitive information. Many SMU-X projects receive media attention, and SMU respects the confidentiality requests of project sponsors. These agreements formalize the sharing of information while restricting access by third parties.
The IP for ideas generated during SMU-X projects belongs to the project sponsor, as stated in the legal agreement signed before the project begins. If you have concerns about this arrangement, please discuss them with the SMU-X Office.
4. Student Interaction and Feedback
No, project sponsors do not grade students. Faculty instructors are responsible for grading. However, feedback from sponsors is crucial in helping students grow and refine their work.
