Southern Illinois University Edwardsville hosted a delegation from Tongmyong University Wednesday, Feb. 5 as the two institutions prepare to implement their dual diploma program.
SIUE Chancellor Julie Furst-Bowe signed a memorandum of understanding on June 11, 2013 with Tongmyong University. The South Korea dual diploma program is the second that SIUE has established. The agreement involves Tongmyong University officials selecting a group of students who will begin the program at their university as freshmen and sophomores. The students transfer to SIUE to complete their junior and senior years.
Upon graduation, the South Korean students will receive their respective diplomas from both Tongmyong University and SIUE. Students can major in mechanical engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, computer engineering and industrial engineering. The first of an anticipated 40-50 South Korean students are expected in fall 2014.
“This is a huge step for the internationalization of our campus,” said Hasan Sevim, dean of the SIUE School of Engineering. “These students will bring their unique culture, new perspectives and high level of academic potential. This is rewarding for both SIUE and our partners.”
In addition to sharing students, the dual degree program agreement also offers opportunities for faculty exchange, summer programs and cooperative research.
SIUE is also exploring relationships with universities in China for potential international cooperation: Shenyang Aerospace University, Shenyang Ligong University, Shenyang University of Chemical Technology and Shenyang Jianzhu University.
SIUE currently has a dual diploma program with Istanbul Technical University. The joint-diploma program in industrial engineering is the first of its kind in the United States and Turkey. Students from Turkey earn a bachelor’s in industrial engineering, and diplomas from each University.
The SIUE School of Engineering offers one of the most comprehensive and affordable engineering programs in the St. Louis region with eight undergraduate degrees, five master’s degrees and a cooperative doctoral program, all housed in a state-of-the-art facility. Students learn from expert faculty, perform cutting-edge research, and participate in intercollegiate design competitions. Companies in the metropolitan St. Louis area provide students challenging internships and co-op opportunities which often turn into permanent employment. All undergraduate programs are accredited by their respective accreditation agencies.