SMU, U of M partner for dual degree programs
WINONA, Minn. — In accord with its strategic plan, Saint Mary’s University has forged a transfer agreement with the University of Minnesota that will strengthen its science programming and provide opportunities to students. Under the agreement, a set of five-year, dual-degree programs allows chemistry and physics students to start their studies at Saint Mary’s, finish at the U of M College of Science and Engineering, and graduate with two degrees.
Students in the dual-degree program in chemistry/chemical engineering complete the requirements for a Saint Mary's chemistry major and then may apply to transfer into the chemical engineering program at the U of M CSE. They will graduate with a B.A. in chemistry from Saint Mary’s after completing upper-division credits at the U of M CSE in their fourth year. Students then graduate with a B.Eng. in chemical engineering from the U of M after satisfying those program requirements.
Students in the new physics/engineering program will complete requirements for a Saint Mary’s major in physics with engineering emphasis, and may apply to transfer into one of seven engineering programs at the U of M CSE: aerospace engineering, civil engineering, electrical engineering, geo-engineering, industrial and systems engineering, materials science engineering, or mechanical engineering. They will graduate with a B.A. in physics with engineering emphasis from Saint Mary’s and a B.Eng. from the U of M.
“This dual-degree program allows students to get the traditional liberal arts experience — with small class sizes and personal attention — and they will have a more well-rounded overall educational experience,” said Dr. Donna Aronson, vice president for academic affairs at Saint Mary’s. “After their time at Saint Mary’s, they will also be better prepared for the next step of their educational journey at the University of Minnesota. The personal contact they receive at Saint Mary’s will help them succeed in this highly competitive field.”
