Academic Support
We Are Here to Help You
SMU and Lyle offer several options for academic support that undergraduate students can utilize. We have compiled a collection of resources below that can assist students and help them succeed at SMU. If students aren’t sure which resource to use, they can simply ask their advisor, who will be able to point them in the right direction and may even have additional resources to recommend.
Altshuler Learning Enhancement Center
Available to all SMU students, the Altshuler Learning Enhancement Center (A-LEC) is a resource for student support and success strategies. The A-LEC offers tutoring and workshops to help students thrive academically.
The Writing Center
The Writing Center, also located at the A-LEC, is available for undergraduate students seeking assistance with reading and writing projects or papers. They offer scheduled appointments, drop-ins hours and writing lab hours.
Disability Accommodations and Success Strategies
The Office of Disability Accommodations and Success Strategies (DASS) is available to aid students who are impacted by a condition that is considered disabling, including learning disabilities, physical disabilities, psychiatric disorders and others. Students who wish to know more about accommodations and eligibility should talk with the DASS Office located in the Lloyd Center, Suite 202; phone number: 214-768-1470.
The office also provides success strategies support for SMU undergraduates with learning and attention disorders. This support takes the form of academic coaching, development classes, student support and networking groups, and other A-LEC services.
Peer Academic Leaders
Peer Academic Leaders (PALs) are students that are embedded in the Residential Commons who can assist students with navigating SMU as a whole, but also with my.smu.edu, academic resources, and with the transition to college. There is even a PALs for transfer students!
Recruitment and Retention Office
Tutoring & Study Space
Study space is available in the Lyle Office of Recruitment and Retention (Caruth Hall, Suite 239, across the hall from the Hart Center) between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., barring other event activities. The Recruitment and Retention Office will also assist in connecting students with a tutor in any subject.
Supplemental Instruction
Supplemental instruction is offered through the Hart Center for Engineering Leadership for introductory classes relevant to engineering majors. Courses include: Chemistry 1303, Physics 1303, Math 1337 & 1338 and CEE/ME 2310. A tutoring schedule is available on the Hart Center’s SMU Connect page.