A global mindset: new academic program at WVU will encourage cross-cultural collaboration

Representatives from the School of Chemical Engineering and Technology at the China University of Mining and Technology discuss a possible collaborative academic program with members of the Statler College. (WVUPhoto/Paige Nesbit)

In a major step towards preparing students to succeed in the global market, the Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources and the School of Chemical Engineering and Technology at the China University of Mining and Technology are teaming up to create a 3+1+1 academic program that will allow eligible students from CUMT to study at West Virginia University.

By Olivia Miller
Communications Specialist

Benjamin M. Statler College of Engineering and Mineral Resources

“For undergraduate students at WVU, it will allow them to work closely on projects with Chinese colleagues in their upper division courses,” said David Wyrick, associate dean for academic affairs and professor in the Statler College. “They will develop the global competency skills expected by the industry.”

The academic program is designed to allow students from CUMT to have a year-long study abroad experience at WVU to complete the requirements of their bachelor’s degree, taking courses primarily in chemical engineering, mining engineering and mechanical engineering. After receiving their bachelor’s degree, which is awarded by CUMT, students will have the chance to apply for the Master of Science in Engineering program offered by the Statler College and complete it in the course of a year.

Wyrick explained that the +1 master’s degree program will help grow the number of graduate students at the college and support WVU’s efforts to become a more global university.

“This partnership increases our exposure to the world, which will increase WVU’s recognition by our peer universities and potential partners,” said Wyrick. “CUMT is recognized worldwide for its programs and can be considered a strategic partner university.”

According to Wyrick, CUMT and WVU have a long-standing relationship, including giving students at the Statler College the opportunity to visit and study at the CUMT campus in Xuzhou, China. The successful implementation of the program will ultimately enhance the cross-cultural knowledge of students and faculty and encourage research collaborations between the universities.

Representatives from CUMT visited the Morgantown campus on Oct. 23 to discuss the partnership with members of the Statler College, WVU Global Affairs and WVU Energy Institute. The specific details of the partnership are still being determined, however, a pilot program launch is expected in the near future.

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