---
title: "Are SMU and SUTD good universities despite lower overall rankings?"
topic: "Singapore Universities & Education FAQ"
resource: "https://www.eh-immigration.com/faq/universities/are-smu-and-sutd-good-universities"
last_updated: "2026-09-14"
---

# Are SMU and SUTD good universities despite lower overall rankings?

Last updated: 2026-09-14

Yes. SMU and SUTD are specialised Autonomous Universities with strong industry links — SMU in business, accountancy, law and economics; SUTD in design, engineering and technology. They rank lower overall partly because they are smaller and narrower, so judge them on the relevant programme, not the overall number.

## Judge on outcomes

Look at the specific programme's graduate employment and starting salaries. A strong SMU accountancy or SUTD design degree can outperform a higher-ranked general degree for the right student. See [the 2027 family view](https://www.eh-immigration.com/articles/best-universities-in-singapore-2027-for-international-families).

Canonical page: https://www.eh-immigration.com/faq/universities/are-smu-and-sutd-good-universities