Singapore Management University Master’s Programs Excel Globally

The Singapore Management University’s (SMU) Master of Science in Applied Finance (MAF) program has achieved remarkable recognition by ranking first in Singapore, second in Asia, and 33rd globally in the newly released 2026 QS Global Master’s in Finance Rankings. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the program, which debuted in the rankings with strong performance among a total of 248 evaluated programs across 47 locations.

In the same rankings, SMU’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) program also demonstrated its quality by advancing to the fourth position in Asia. Despite an increase in the overall number of evaluated programs—now totaling 390—the SMU MBA maintained its global ranking at 41st, showcasing its consistent excellence in a competitive landscape.

Commitment to Real-World Application

Professor Bert De Reyck, Dean of the Lee Kong Chian School of Business (LKCSB) at SMU, emphasized that these rankings reflect both academic rigor and the university’s unique approach to integrating academic learning with practical application. He stated, “Our programs are designed to go beyond the classroom and to translate knowledge into practice, arming our graduates with the confidence and skills to stand out in competitive global markets.”

Established in 2000, LKCSB is one of the youngest business schools globally and is recognized for its ‘Triple Crown’ accreditation, achieved in 2018. This prestigious status is held by a select group of business schools worldwide and is awarded by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), AMBA, and European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS).

Focus on Emerging Fields

In another notable achievement, SMU’s Master of IT in Business (MITB) program ranked second in Asia and 25th worldwide in the 2026 QS Master’s in Business Analytics. This ranking underscores the program’s commitment to equipping graduates with in-demand skills in rapidly evolving areas such as artificial intelligence and technology.

To further address the growing need for cybersecurity professionals, SMU recently introduced a new Cybersecurity track within the MITB program. This addition complements existing specializations in Artificial Intelligence, Data Science & Analytics, FinTech, and Digital Transformation.

SMU’s postgraduate programs prioritize close engagement with industry, allowing students to learn through real-world case studies and best practices shared by global companies. The programs are delivered by an internationally diverse faculty through interactive and seminar-style classes, fostering valuable networking opportunities with leaders from the business community.

The university continually updates its curricula to reflect changes in business and society, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the realities of an ever-evolving global economy. The 2026 QS rankings, released on September 17, 2025, provide a rigorous, data-driven assessment of university programs worldwide, evaluating performance across a range of weighted indicators.

Overall, SMU’s impressive rankings highlight its commitment to educational excellence and its role as a key player in shaping the future of business education in Asia and beyond.