2020 2020: UMass Dartmouth and Bridgewater State University launch accelerated Physics and Electrical Engineering degree programs

Joint programs to create advanced STEM learning and research experience for students

The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth and Bridgewater State University have announced two joint accelerated Master of Science programs in Physics and Electrical Engineering. The educational partnership agreement between the institutions will provide undergraduate students at BSU with an accelerated pathway to earning a graduate degree at UMass Dartmouth.

Undergraduate students in the Physics, Photonics and Optical Engineering program in the Bartlett College of Science & Mathematics at BSU will be able to seamlessly earn a master’s degree in Physics or Electrical Engineering in the College of Engineering at UMass Dartmouth.

During their junior or senior year, BSU students can begin taking graduate courses at UMass Dartmouth while finishing their undergraduate degrees at BSU. This unique opportunity offers students an accelerated pathway to successfully attain their academic goals affordably. Importantly, the agreement focuses on student academic support measures including advising and research opportunities throughout the student’s educational journey.

“This partnership offers an expedited and cost-effective opportunity for students to enter STEM fields that provide them with meaningful career opportunities,” said Dr. Michael Goodman, Acting Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs at UMass Dartmouth. “These are fields where there is a clear need for more skilled workers, which makes this a real win-win for both our students and the regional economy.”

Dr. Karim Ismaili, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at BSU, agreed that the accelerated pathway will extend the mutual commitment of both institutions to affordability and quality, with a focus on innovation.

“Bridgewater State University and UMass Dartmouth are committed to helping students take advantage of opportunities that will help them succeed now and, in the future,” said Dr. Ismaili. “This partnership is a powerful example of how two public institutions can work together to achieve these important goals.”

The collaboration began with faculty at both institutions working on ways to create more hands-on STEM learning and research experiences for students.

The two Southeastern Massachusetts institutions have a strong history of collaboration to offer training and career opportunities to diverse student learners to meet the needs of the workforce through education and lifelong learning.

In 2018, the UMass School of Law at UMass Dartmouth and BSU began offering a joint Law/Master of Social Work program that allows students to earn both degrees in four years rather than five. By collaborating on the program, the schools enable students to enter public service with a uniquely defined skill set and less student debt.