Columbia Engineering Signs MOU with VIT to Expand Dual-Degree Pathways

On July 1, Columbia Engineering signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Vellore Institute of Technology (VIT) on Columbia’s Morningside campus, following a brief lunch meeting between VIT and Columbia Engineering delegations.

This MOU establishes a 4+1 dual-degree pathway for qualified VIT bachelor's students to pursue master's degrees at Columbia Engineering. Eligible MS programs include Data Science, Electrical Engineering, Computer Engineering, Quantum Science and Technology, Management Science and Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. 

Signatories included Soulaymane Kachani, dean of Academic Affairs and Global Partnerships at Columbia Engineering; Govindasamy Viswanathan, founder and chancellor of VIT; and G. V. Selvam, vice president of VIT. 

“We are proud to formalize a relationship that has, in practice, flourished for many years,” said Kachani. “VIT students have consistently distinguished themselves at Columbia Engineering, and this agreement reflects our shared commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and the preparation of future engineering leaders in an increasingly interconnected world.” 

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The ceremony was also attended by the Consul General of India in New York, Ambassador Binaya Srikanta Pradhan, along with consulate official Satabdi Tagore, underscoring the partnership's significance to India-U.S. academic ties.

VIT Vice President Selvam said, "This agreement will open new avenues for student engagement, academic collaboration, research, and global learning between VIT and Columbia University. Our students will now have access to internationally acclaimed engineering programs at Columbia University, enabling them to acquire global competencies and prepare for leadership roles in science, engineering, technology, and innovation."

Describing the collaboration as a defining moment in the history of VIT, Founder and Chancellor Viswanathan said, "This is a landmark agreement between VIT and Columbia University. We are proud to be the first Indian university to establish a dual-degree program with one of the world's most prestigious institutions. This collaboration reflects VIT's unwavering commitment to providing globally competitive education and creating transformative international learning opportunities for our students."

“The 4+1 dual degree pathway programs enable a wider pipeline of accomplished students to access the highest quality engineering education and strengthen our ties to schools with a like-minded mission,” said Shih-Fu Chang, dean of Columbia Engineering. “Building on our strong collaborations in India, we’re looking forward to partnering with VIT to prepare the next generation of global engineering talent.”