RWU and UMass Dartmouth Launch Partnership for 4+1 Engineering Programs

The two universities will provide joint accelerated master's programs in electrical engineering, computer engineering, and civil engineering

An Engineering student connecting wires in a lab

BRISTOL, R.I. – Roger Williams University and UMass Dartmouth have partnered to create three joint 4+1 master's programs. The educational partnership agreement between the institutions will provide undergraduate students at RWU with the opportunity to earn accelerated graduate degrees in electrical engineering, computer engineering, and civil engineering at UMassD.  

During their senior year, RWU Engineering students can begin taking courses toward a master's degree at UMassD, allowing them to complete both degrees in five years. This unique opportunity offers students an efficient and cost-effective pathway to reach their academic goals and begin careers in high-demand fields. 

"I am very excited about this agreement between RWU and UMassD," said Robert Griffin, Dean of the School of Engineering, Computing and Construction Management at RWU. "In a cost-efficient and timely manner, it will increase the options for students in our Civil, Computer, and Electrical Engineering programs to pursue higher degrees."

"We are pleased to embark on this partnership with Roger Williams University and open doors for talented students seeking a faster path to a master's degree," said Jean VanderGheynst, Dean of the College of Engineering at UMass Dartmouth. "This collaboration strengthens engineering education in our region and prepares the next generation of engineers to tackle tomorrow's challenges."

"Combining RWU's strong undergraduate foundation with UMass Dartmouth's renowned graduate engineering programs, these 4+1 options allow students to leverage expertise from both institutions," said Vijaya Chalivendra, Director of Graduate Studies for College of Engineering at UMass Dartmouth.

Engineering undergraduates will be able to apply two courses and six credits, choosing from among five different courses in each of the Civil, Electrical, and Computer specializations that qualify for the program.

Students interested in the accelerated BS/MS programs should consult their academic advisor about eligibility and the application process.