SMU Achieves #2 Rank in Software Engineering for 2023

In a significant achievement for Singapore Management University (SMU), the institution has climbed from the fourth to the second position in the Software Engineering category of the 2023 CSRankings. This ranking is a testament to SMU's dedication to excellence in software engineering research, placing it firmly on the global map.

CSRankings is a well-respected, metrics-based ranking system that evaluates computer science institutions worldwide. It assesses universities based on their academic publications at leading research conferences in the field of computer science. This ranking is particularly valuable for graduate students who are looking to identify schools with active researchers and strong programs in computer science.

SMU stands out as the only university from Singapore to be featured in the top ten of the CSRankings 2023 list. It is also home to the Centre for Research in Intelligent Software Engineering (RISE), the only research center in Singapore dedicated to software engineering. This achievement highlights SMU's world-class research capabilities and its commitment to advancing the field.

The top position in the CSRankings is held by Nanjing University, followed by other prestigious institutions such as Sun Yat-Sen University, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and Carnegie Mellon University. SMU's rise in the rankings reinforces its reputation, as previous studies have also recognized its contributions to software engineering research.

For instance, a study conducted by the University of Texas at Dallas ranked SMU fifth worldwide in software engineering, showcasing its strong publication record in high-quality journals and conferences. This consistent recognition underscores the impact of SMU's research in the global academic community.

What sets CSRankings apart from other ranking systems is its focus on specialized fields within computer science. The rankings are regularly updated and based on publications in top-tier conferences, ensuring that they accurately reflect the real impact of research in each area. In the competitive world of computer science, where acceptance rates for top-tier conferences are low, the quality of research presented is often comparable to that of journal publications.

SMU's faculty members have made significant contributions to the field, presenting innovative research at major conferences such as the ACM/IEEE International Conference on Software Engineering and the ACM Joint European Software Engineering Conference. Their work covers a wide range of topics, including software development, testing, security, architecture, and collaboration among developers. The research addresses various software systems, from traditional applications to industrial control systems and deep learning technologies.

Professor David Lo, the OUB Chair Professor of Computer Science and Director of RISE, expressed pride in the university's contributions to software engineering research. He stated, "We are very happy to contribute to the advancement of software engineering research and practice, and excited to share our findings with the world via our research papers and presentations at key conferences." This sentiment reflects the collaborative spirit at SMU, where faculty members work closely with partners from various countries to enhance their research impact.

SMU's Vice Provost for Research, Professor Archan Misra, emphasized the importance of this improved ranking, noting that it demonstrates the rigor and global reputation of their research. He highlighted the significant societal impact of their work, particularly through projects executed in partnership with public agencies, which contribute to the security of Singapore's digital applications and services.

Established in 2000, SMU is known for its interdisciplinary research that addresses global issues, impacting business, government, and society. With over 13,000 students, the university offers a diverse range of degree programs across various disciplines, aiming to nurture global citizens and change agents.

SMU's rise in the CSRankings is not just a reflection of its academic prowess but also a commitment to making a meaningful impact in the field of software engineering. As the university continues to push the boundaries of research and innovation, it sets a strong example for other institutions striving for excellence in education and research.