The SWGSB Commercial Lending School in partnership with Texas Bankers Association is a transformative program that enables loan officers, credit analysts, credit risk professionals, portfolio managers, and commercial lenders to rise to leadership positions in banking with advanced credit training.
Designed for both new and seasoned lending professionals, the Commercial Lending School provides the necessary knowledge and skills to successfully compete in the highly competitive commercial lending space.
SW Graduate School of Banking at SMU Cox
April 26–May 1, 2026
$2,995/attendee.
Includes tuition, instructional materials, and some meals.
Hotel and transportation are not included. For hotel accommodations, please call 214-768-2991 or email ddavis@smu.edu.
The Commercial Lending School is offered in three distinct levels. Level 1 is an introduction to lending, focusing on the critical topics that those new to credit need to jump start their careers. Following Level 1 certification or demonstrable equivalent experience, Level 2 offers more in-depth training on specific types of underwriting and portfolio management skills that help lenders advance into leadership positions. Beginning in 2027, the Commercial Lending School will offer a Leadership Forum designed for senior-level bankers in credit risk management in an executive retreat format at a non-campus location.
LEVEL 1
An introduction to lending, focusing on the critical topics that those new to credit need to jump start their careers.
Topics Covered
Banking, the Economy, and Credit Outlook
Credit Culture
Financial Statement Analysis Overview and the Importance of Cash Flow
Evaluating the Borrower’s Business Strategy
Bank Loan Simulation
Underwriting the Loan Request
Developing the Credit Memo
Influential Client Conversations
Presentation Skills for Loan Officers
Commercial & Industrial Lending
Small Business Banking
Compliance
LEVEL 2
More in-depth training on specific types of underwriting and portfolio management skills that help lenders advance into leadership positions. Level 1 certification or demonstrable equivalent experience is required.
Topics Covered
Banking, the Economy, and Credit Outlook
Bank Loan Simulation
Credit Risk Management
How to Craft Loan Covenants
Is an AI Revolution Coming to Credit Risk Management?
Lender Liability & Bankruptcy
Global Cash Flow/Business Tax Return
Real Estate Construction Lending
Real Estate Valuations/Appraisal Issues
Persuasion/Negotiation Skill Training
Relationship Banking
Specialized Lending: Energy, Asset-Based Lending, Agricultural
Loan Participations, Opportunities, and Pitfalls
Case Studies on Advanced Credit and Workout Credit
Problem Loan Management/Workouts
Stress Testing
LEADERSHIP FORUM Coming in 2027
This is an executive retreat at a non-campus location designed for senior-level bankers in credit risk management. Relevant management experience is required. Attendees do not have to complete Level 1 and Level 2 to register.
Topics Covered
Managing Loan Portfolios
Building Effective Risk Strategies
Enhancing Leadership Skills
Problem Loan Management/Workouts
Stress Testing
