UM-Flint and American University of Sharjah launch dual master's program, expanding access to global education

The College of Innovation & Technology at the University of Michigan-Flint has formed an international partnership with the American University of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates for a dual master's degree program. The partnership aims to enhance educational opportunities and foster global learning experiences for students in computer science and information systems, cybersecurity, data analytics, data science, electrical and computer engineering, artificial intelligence, digital transformation, smart manufacturing, human-centered design and software engineering.

"We are excited to partner with AUS on this program for graduate education," said Marouane Kessentini, CIT associate dean for research and graduate education. "Our faculty is very active in research and graduate students play a critical role in these research teams. Students who come to CIT will have scholarship support, a great learning environment, and many opportunities to develop their expertise to shape their future careers."

The agreement facilitates a one-plus-one program where up to 50 AUS students, upon completing the first year of their master's degree program at AUS, are eligible to apply for admission to UM-Flint. These students will have the opportunity to join one of the master's degrees in various cutting-edge disciplines offered at CIT.

"This partnership represents a significant milestone in fostering international academic collaboration," said Fadi Aloul, dean of the AUS College of Engineering. "By leveraging the strengths of both institutions, we can provide our students with unparalleled educational opportunities and equip them with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in today's globalized world."

Per the agreement, AUS students will be required to meet UM-Flint's English proficiency requirements and comply with all admission standards. Third-party credential evaluation for AUS students will be waived, thereby streamlining the admission process. 

Through the mutual transfer of credits and upon the successful fulfillment of program requirements at both AUS and UM-Flint, AUS students will be conferred with two master's degrees, one from each institiution.