Imagine having the best of both worlds - Choice plus security: Reserve a spot at any two SMU Schools and be guaranteed admission when you exercise your option at the end of your first year.
Imagine a year where you can explore subjects that excite you: Whether it's coding, business, psychology, or something entirely different, the D3 programme lets you customise your learning journey. Studies around the world show that major declaration after enrollment in college rather than at the point of enrollment ensures better alignment between interests and field of study is tied to higher academic achievement, persistence, and satisfaction.1
Spend the year cultivating foundational analytical skills across multiple disciplines: According to the World Economic Forum’s The Future of Jobs Report 2025, employers are seeking graduates with analytical skills, adaptability, and strong foundational skills that can travel across roles and industries[2]. D3 students will cultivate a strong set of interdisciplinary and analytical skills to propel their success for the rest of their time at University and beyond.
[1]https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1747938X24000289
[2]https://reports.weforum.org/docs/WEF_Future_of_Jobs_Report_2025.pdf
Here’s what you can expect from the D3 programme:
Students enrolled in the D3 programme reserve seats in up to two preferred degree paths and spend their first year to exploring their interests through a range of courses across SMU, before committing to a major.
Guided by a faculty advisor and participating in dedicated discussions, talks and workshops, students discover their strengths and academic interests, enabling them to make an informed and confident choice of their destination degree major at the end of the D3 year.
From day one, students connect with a professional and academic network, building strong relationships through direct interaction with industry leaders, academic faculty and fellow students.
Candidates interested in designing their own major are advised to reserve a seat in the Bachelor of Integrative Studies when applying for the D3 programme. Candidates without a reserved seat may still be considered, but entry into the BIS will be subject to competitive review.
Here’s How Custom-Built Learning In Your First Year Will Look Like
BEFORE TERM STARTS
- Meet your peers at Freshmen Orientation.
- Get your study plan and learn to use it during the CIS Academic Briefing.
AUG TO DEC (TERM 1)
- Tackle “Big Questions” with your peers and explore SMU courses that interest you.
- Get career advice and learn about industry trends from leaders and alumni through CIS-exclusive events and consultations.
- Get advice and insights from your assigned faculty advisor.
JAN TO MAY (TERM 2)
- Continue exploring by choosing electives that interest you, such as sustainability, business, computing, psychology, and more.
- Discover academic pathways and customised majors through curated workshops.
MAY TO JUN
- Declare your destination degree! Indicate your interest in the Bachelor of Integrative Studies (Individualised Major) [BIS (IM)] or activate one of your two reserved seats.
Candidates interested in designing your own major are advised to reserve a seat in the BIS (IM) when applying for the D3 programme. Candidates without a reserved seat may still be considered but entry into the BIS (IM) will be competitively reviewed
Interested in applying?
Find out more about the central admissions process and requirements here.
Connect With Like-Minded Peers, Professors And Industry Leaders To Discover Your Potential
As a D3 student, you will be part of an amazing community where you can:
Connect with your peers
Express your individuality and build lasting friendships. From CIS Thinks Big Dreams Big and the CIS Soirées to the Integrative Fiesta, learn together with and get support from your inCISive peers.
Collaborate with your professors
Get advice from Faculty advisors, share ideas at CIS Dean’s Teas, learn about your Major at Dream Big workshops, and take part in many other specially curated events.
Build your network
Receive advice on industry trends and emerging issues from SMU alumni and industry leaders through Fireside Chats, as well as exclusive consultation access with our CIS Executives-in-Residence. These experiences will help you make choices for your future and equip you with the tools to succeed in college and beyond.