Birla Institute of Technology and Science (BITS Pilani) and Iowa State University of Science and Technology have formed a cooperation to launch a two-plus-two (2+2) undergraduate shared degree programme and combined graduate degree programmes at the master’s and PhD levels. According to the official announcement, this partnership begins on January 30, 2024. The agreement aims to facilitate qualified students from BITS Pilani transferring to Iowa State for a cooperative Bachelor of Science (B.S) programme in engineering.
This “2+2” programme allows students to complete their initial two years at BITS Pilani and seamlessly transition to Iowa State for the remaining two years. Likewise, as per the statement, it will offer pathways for graduate students to pursue research-based, collaborative degree programmes at both institutions.
Every year, BITS Pilani will propose qualified students for these programmes, while Iowa State will make the final admission choices. Students who complete the requirements for their respective programmes will get degrees from both institutions. With the primary goal of providing outstanding educational experiences, Iowa State will provide the same resources and services to BITS Pilani students as it offers to other Iowa State students.
Sharing his thoughts on the collaboration, Ramgopal Rao, Vice Chancellor of BITS Pilani, said:
This agreement not only marks a significant milestone in international academic cooperation but also emphasizes the commitment of both institutions to providing students with a global perspective and a well-rounded education.
Iowa State University is a Carnegie Foundation Doctoral and Research University, and its campus is one of the most beautiful in the nation. Iowa State is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU), with over 6,500 highly qualified academics and staff. Students have several collaboration possibilities, including over 850 student clubs and organizations, 45 various forms of intramural sports, and over 90 highly esteemed early-engagement learning communities. The University is known worldwide for its excellence in science and technology, discovery and innovation, and its student-centered culture, which includes faculty and staff committed to student achievement.
W. Samuel Easterling, the James L. & Katharine L. Melsa Dean of Engineering, Iowa State, stated:
BITS Pilani brings a rich heritage of innovation and intellectual rigour, complementing Iowa State University’s commitment to cutting-edge research and education. We hope to give students an exceptional, fulfilling educational experience beyond borders. This collaboration has enormous potential to produce world-class leaders who will influence engineering and related subjects.
BITS Pilani seeks to spread knowledge and educate students in science, technology, and other disciplines of study most beneficial to the country and the world in the 21st century. The Institute is committed to creating, disseminating, and preserving knowledge and cooperating with others to apply that knowledge to the world’s most significant challenges. It hopes to instil in every member of the BITS community the skill and desire to work carefully, creatively, and effectively for the betterment of society. Over the years, it has provided the highest level of technical education to students admitted on merit from across India. The organization has recently sealed a momentous partnership through a Memorandum of Understanding with Gati Shakti Vishwavidyalaya to enhance collaborative endeavours in research and development.
