Global Business Education: SMU Partners with Thai Universities for Dual Degree Programmes
SMU has launched new Dual Degree Programmes with Thammasat Business School (TBS) and Chulalongkorn Business School (CBS). The programmes allow Thai undergraduates to study three years in Thailand before completing a Master’s degree at SMU. This initiative aims to prepare future leaders with a global perspective and sustainable business practices. SMU’s approach integrates regional insights with advanced coursework, fostering diverse learning experiences and potential career opportunities in Singapore.
In today’s globalised world, leaders of tomorrow require a broad international perspective. To address this need, SMU has established several strategic partnerships to provide students with regional exposure and prepare the next generation for success in an ever-evolving market.
Taking this approach to new heights, SMU has recently launched new Dual Degree Programmes in collaboration with esteemed Thai educational institutions Thammasat Business School (TBS), Thammasat University, and Chulalongkorn Business School (CBS), Chulalongkorn University. The innovative Dual Degree Programmes are designed to redefine business education by nurturing future leaders who are adept at championing sustainable business practices across the ASEAN region.
Under these programmes, students from both TBS and CBS will first complete a three-year undergraduate curriculum before enroling in a Master’s programme offered by the SMU School of Accountancy or the SMU Lee Kong Chian School of Business. Upon completing their studies at SMU, students will earn both a bachelor’s degree from TBS or CBS, and a master’s degree from SMU.
The new partnerships advance SMU's "Growth in Asia" vision by combining diverse learning experiences with academic excellence. By cultivating leaders capable of navigating the region’s dynamic markets, SMU reinforces its commitment to nurturing future-ready business leaders with a distinct Asian perspective.
SMU, along with both TBS and CBS, hold the prestigious "triple crown" accreditation, recognised by leading business education organisations in the US, UK, and Europe.
For further insights into the objective and impact of the programmes, we speak to Dr Prasart Jongjaroenkamol, Senior Lecturer of Accounting and Co-Director of the Master of Professional Accounting (MPA) programme at the SMU School of Accountancy.
Broadening regional and international experiences
Students embarking on the three-year undergraduate programmes in Thailand will gain invaluable insights into the country’s business landscape and develop an understanding of the region’s complex industry networks. Upon completing their undergraduate studies in Bangkok, they will transition to their Master’s programme at SMU in Singapore. Designed to seamlessly integrate the knowledge acquired during their undergraduate studies with the advanced coursework offered at SMU, the opportunity allows students to engage with SMU’s interactive learning environment, while gaining firsthand exposure to Singapore’s unique business landscape. Pursuing postgraduate studies at SMU will also open doors to internships and potential job opportunities in the city-state.
“We work closely with both CBS and TBS to ensure that their undergraduate curricula align with SMU's postgraduate offerings,” Dr Prasart explains, going on to explain that this arrangement may even allow students to potentially trim down their study duration.
Dr Prasart also views the programmes as a catalyst for greater diversity in SMU classrooms, thereby enriching the learning experience for all students.
As Associate Professor Dr Somchai Supattarakul, Dean of Thammasat Business School, remarks, “Combining TBS's strong and distinctive undergraduate programmes with SMU's diverse and cutting-edge Master's programmes, this initiative will nurture future leaders who will shape sustainable business directions in the ASEAN region, aligning with Thammasat Business School's vision."
Integrating student experiences across borders
Dr Prasart, originally from Thailand, shares that the programmes emerged from collaborative discussions with CBS and TBS. Recognising the high calibre of business education at both institutions, he envisioned how their diverse student body could enrich SMU’s Master’s programmes.
“It was not an easy task, as we wanted to ensure a seamless integration of the undergraduate curriculum with SMU's postgraduate curriculum,” he notes.
When asked what advice he has for prospective students, Dr Prasart emphasises the importance of strong communication skills, “SMU values active classroom interaction, so students who come well-prepared will get the most out of their education here.”
He adds, “We seek individuals with a positive attitude and a willingness to embrace new experiences. While there are plenty of opportunities available, success begins with being open to new challenges and opportunities.”
With its innovative approach to international education and a commitment to developing well-rounded graduates with a global outlook, SMU continues to make a significant impact in the business world. The new Dual Degree Programmes are a testament to this commitment, and they are set to pave the way for more groundbreaking initiatives in the future.
