The collaboration features a 1+1 pathway program that enables students to complete the first year of their master’s degree at the University of Mumbai and the second year at SLU in St. Louis. This fall, chemistry will be added as an additional offering to the available master’s programs in cybersecurity and analytics.

When it launched last fall, the pathway program marked the first articulation agreement between a public university in India and a U.S. university. Such agreements streamline the transition for students between institutions, ensuring they retain progress toward their degrees.

By partnering with the University of Mumbai, SLU has connected with one of the world’s largest university systems, which serves more than 700,000 students across hundreds of campuses and affiliated colleges.

Last month, SLU President Fred P. Pestello, Ph.D., traveled to India to meet with University of Mumbai leaders and participate as the first American guest of honor at their commencement ceremony. During the event, he was recognized by Shri. C. P. Radhakrishnan, the governor of Maharashtra and chancellor of Maharashtra State Universities.

“It was a privilege to take part in such a significant event,” Pestello said. “Our growing partnership with the University of Mumbai supports India’s bold educational initiatives while enriching the global perspectives at SLU, benefiting both international and U.S. students.”

Related: Read India’s 2020 National Education Policy (PDF) on the Ministry of Education’s website.

During his visit, Pestello also met with representatives from the U.S. State Department, U.S. Embassy and the U.S. Commercial Service — a division of the Department of Commerce dedicated to fostering international partnerships.

“These discussions have strengthened our commitment to expanding SLU’s presence in India and enhancing the support we offer to our international students,” Pestello said. “We look forward to building on these relationships and exploring new avenues for collaboration.”

The inaugural cohort of 55 students in the 1+1 program is wrapping up their first year in India and will begin their studies at SLU this fall. For many of these students, the program offers a unique blend of academic rigor and cultural exchange that’s already had a lasting impact.

“I am confident about the program and am looking forward to completing my second year at SLU,” said student Srishti Srinivasan, “This program offers a once-in-a-lifetime experience that promises excellent exposure and growth opportunities in my field.”

Student Vrinda Thakur shared a similar perspective. “I’m finding the program interesting and insightful so far, with plenty of opportunities to learn and grow. The chance to gain international exposure and study in a diverse academic environment is particularly exciting.”

For more information about Saint Louis University’s programs for international students, visit slu.edu/globalgrad or contact globalgrad@slu.edu.