About SMS
Founded in 1964, the School of Management Studies (SMS) was initially established under the University of Kerala. With the formation of the University of Cochin in July 1971, the School became an integral part of the University, now known as the Cochin University of
Science and Technology (CUSAT). Over the decades, SMS has consistently produced skilled, forward-thinking professionals who contribute meaningfully to business, governance, and society. The School remains committed to upholding the high academic and ethical standards laid down at its inception, across teaching, research, and institutional engagement.
Through sustained efforts in curriculum innovation, skill development, internships, live projects, and student enrichment initiatives, SMS has evolved into a vibrant learning ecosystem that offers balanced exposure to curricular, co-curricular, and extracurricular activities. The collective commitment of the administration, faculty, students, and an extensive alumni network has positioned SMS as one of the most sought-after management institutions in the country and among the leading MBA colleges in Kerala.
Ranked as the second-best B-School in Kerala, the School of Management Studies is widely recognised for delivering one of the strongest returns on investment (ROI) among management institutions in India. A rigorous, merit-based admission process ensures high-quality student intake, while a strong placement ecosystem enables graduates to secure opportunities in leading organisations across sectors. SMS alumni today hold responsible positions in reputed companies and institutions around the globe, reinforcing the School’s strong industry connect and professional credibility.
Currently, the School of Management Studies offers AICTE-approved MBA programmes in Full-Time (four-semester) and Part-Time (six-semester) modes, along with an Executive MBA, an International Dual Master’s Programme, and Doctoral (Ph.D.) programmes in both Full-Time and Part-Time modes.
SMS is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive academic environment by welcoming students and research scholars from across the country and beyond national borders. By maintaining a healthy male–female ratio, the School actively promotes gender equity on campus. In line with its responsibilities towards environment, society, and governance, SMS supports women’s empowerment and environmental initiatives, provides fee waivers and merit-based scholarships to economically disadvantaged students, and upholds transparent, participative, and democratic decision-making processes.
The School of Management Studies holds the legacy of being one of the oldest MBA institutions in Kerala and one of the first five premier management institutions established in India. The School stands as a reflection of the visionary leadership of Padmabhushan
Professor Emeritus Dr. M. V. Pylee, Founder Director of SMS and former Vice-Chancellor of CUSAT. An eminent scholar, educationist, and authority on Constitutional Law, Dr. Pylee is widely regarded as the father of management education in Kerala. He was awarded the Padmabhushan in 2006 by the Government of India for his outstanding contributions to education and management. During his tenure, he instituted the M. V. Pylee Award for the Best Distinguished Academician in India, further strengthening the School’s academic
legacy.
Padmabhushan Dr. M. V. Pylee (5 October 1922-30 December 2017) was an Indian scholar, educationist, and management guru, considered by many as the father of management education in Kerala and an authority on Constitutional Law. He was awarded Padmabhushan in 2006 by the Government of India for his contributions to the field of education and management. During his tenure as Director, he instituted the M.V.Pylee Award for the Best Distinguished Academician in India.
Padmabhushan Emeritus Prof.(Dr.)M.V.Pylee
Founder Director, SMS
Former Vice Chancellor, CUSAT
About CUSAT
Cochin University of Science and Technology (CUSAT) is a premier public university in India, known for its sustained commitment to academic excellence, research, and societal relevance. Established in 1971 as the University of Cochin and reorganised as CUSAT in February 1986, the University has steadily evolved into a centre of higher learning with national and international recognition.
CUSAT has earned remarkable recognition across major ranking frameworks. In the NIRF 2025 Rankings, the University was placed 6th among State Public Universities, 32nd in the University category, and 50th overall in India. It secured the 1st position in the Kerala Institutional Ranking Framework (KIRF) 2024 and was ranked 7th in the India Today Best Public University Rankings 2025, reaffirming its leadership among public universities in the country.
At the global level, CUSAT has shown notable upward momentum. The University entered the 251–300 global band in the Times Higher Education (THE) Interdisciplinary Science Rankings 2026, improving from the 351–400 band in 2025. It also advanced by 100 positions to rank 509th in the QS Asia Rankings 2026. CUSAT is placed in the 1001–1200 band in the Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026 and ranked 777 in the QS Sustainability Rankings 2026. Its exceptional 58th global rank in SDG 14 (Life Below Water) in the THE Impact Rankings 2025 highlights the University’s leadership in marine, coastal, and environmental research.
The University’s unwavering commitment to quality in higher education has earned it an ‘A’ Grade accreditation by the National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC). CUSAT continues to focus on advancing higher learning and research across science, technology, social sciences, humanities, law, marine sciences, environmental studies, medical sciences, and allied disciplines, fostering interdisciplinary inquiry and innovation.
CUSAT takes pride in its highly accomplished faculty who mentor a diverse student community and nurture responsible, ethical, and globally competent graduates. The University actively engages in international collaborations and academic partnerships with institutions across the United States, Europe, Russia, Japan, France, and South Korea, strengthening its global academic footprint.
The University’s main campus spans approximately 180 acres, located about 15 kilometres from the heart of Kochi, providing a conducive environment for academic pursuit and research. Guided by its motto from the Vedas, “Tejasvinavadhithamastu” - May the wisdom gained illuminate both the teacher and the taught, and radiate to the world; CUSAT remains dedicated to knowledge creation, dissemination, and service to society.
