Singapore Management University (SMU) has achieved remarkable recognition with its Master of Science in Applied Finance (MAF) programme ranking first in Singapore, second in Asia, and 33rd globally in the newly released 2026 QS Global Master’s in Finance Rankings. This marks a significant milestone for SMU, as it is the programme’s inaugural entry into the rankings.
The performance of the MAF programme highlights SMU’s commitment to academic excellence, competing against a total of 248 programmes evaluated across 47 locations. In addition, the SMU MBA programme has also shown impressive results, securing a fourth-place position in Asia. Despite an increase in the number of programmes assessed by Quacquarelli Symonds, the MBA maintained its global ranking at 41st out of 390 programmes, demonstrating its consistent performance among leading global institutions.
Insights from the Dean
Professor Bert De Reyck, Dean of SMU’s Lee Kong Chian School of Business (LKCSB), commented on the institution’s achievements, stating, “These rankings reflect not only academic excellence but also SMU’s distinctive approach of marrying academic depth with real-world application.” He emphasized that the programmes are designed to extend beyond traditional classroom learning, equipping graduates with the necessary skills to thrive in competitive global markets.
LKCSB, which is one of the youngest business schools worldwide, achieved the prestigious ‘Triple Crown’ accreditation in 2018. This accolade, held by a select group of schools globally, is awarded by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), AMBA, and the European Quality Improvement System (EQUIS).
Strength in Business Analytics
In the realm of business analytics, SMU’s Master of IT in Business (MITB) programme has also excelled, ranking second in Asia and 25th worldwide in the 2026 QS Master’s in Business Analytics. This accomplishment reinforces the programme’s reputation for equipping graduates with essential skills in high-demand areas such as artificial intelligence and technology.
In response to the increasing need for cybersecurity professionals, SMU recently introduced a new Cybersecurity track within the MITB programme. This addition complements existing specialisations in areas like Data Science & Analytics, FinTech, and Digital Transformation, ensuring that the curriculum remains relevant to industry demands.
SMU’s postgraduate programmes are characterized by close engagement with industry professionals. Students benefit from real-world case studies and best practices drawn from both local and global companies. Learning is reinforced through interactive, seminar-style classes led by an internationally diverse faculty, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and interactions with prominent business leaders.
As the global economy continues to evolve rapidly, SMU is committed to regularly updating its curricula to align with emerging trends in business and society. This proactive approach ensures that graduates are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of a changing job market.
The 2026 QS rankings, released on September 17, 2025, utilize a comprehensive assessment of various weighted indicators to evaluate the quality of university programmes worldwide. This rigorous, data-driven methodology underscores the significance of the latest rankings for educational institutions globally.
