BITS Pilani has formed a partnership with the University of Southern California's Viterbi School of Engineering (USC Viterbi) to develop a one-of-a-kind dual-degree and research collaboration program. The MoU, signed at USC’s Olin Hall of Engineering, is designed to offer BITS students a direct route to advanced studies and global research exposure.
What the Program Offers
At the heart of this collaboration is a dual-degree pathway—BITS Pilani’s top-performing engineering students will have the chance to start their Master of Science (MS) at USC during their final undergraduate year. This means that a student could graduate with a BE from BITS and an MS from USC, significantly shortening the time and cost of pursuing higher studies abroad.
However, the partnership is not restricted to degrees:
- Faculty and student exchange programs are on the agenda.
- Collaborative research projects in fields like AI, cybersecurity, quantum computing, and sustainability will bring together top minds from both institutions
- USC students will also spend short stints in India for academic and cultural exchanges
Opening Global Doors for Indian Students
This is a big deal for Indian students who dream of studying abroad but are often held back by financial or visa constraints. With this setup, students begin their global journey while still in India—making the transition smoother, faster, and more affordable.
“This is not just a partnership—it’s a platform for innovation, diversity, and global progress,” said Yannis C. Yortsos, Dean of USC Viterbi.
What Students Need to Know
- The program begins with the 2025-26 academic term.
- Third-year BITS engineering students will be eligible to apply, based on academic performance and other criteria.
- Applications and further details are expected soon on the official BITS website
The Bottom Line
If you're a BITS Pilani student with your eyes set on global tech careers, this partnership could be your launchpad. With USC’s cutting-edge research and BITS’ strong academic foundation, this is more than just an exchange—it’s a transformation.
