56 American Colleges With Surrounding Cities Full of Career and Networking Potential

50. Southern Methodist University (SMU) – Dallas’ Gateway to Business, Energy & Law

SMU, located in the heart of Dallas, offers students unmatched access to major corporations in finance, law, energy, and telecom. With Fortune 500s like AT&T, ExxonMobil, and Southwest Airlines headquartered nearby, students benefit from one of the nation’s most business-connected cities. The Cox School of Business, Dedman School of Law, and Lyle School of Engineering all foster deep industry ties. SMU’s alumni network dominates the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, creating a strong career pipeline. From courtroom internships to energy boardrooms, SMU students gain real-world traction in a thriving economic powerhouse that rewards ambition and talent.