The University of Souther California Viterbi School of Engineering and BITS Pilani announced their collaboration. A partnership in excellence and research has begun with this development. Through collaborative research, educational programs, and faculty and student exchanges, the MoU seeks to improve academic relationships and promote innovation.

"This collaboration with BITS Pilani is a prime example of our dedication to forming international partnerships that promote research and innovation," stated Yannis C. Yortsos, dean of the USC Viterbi School of Engineering. We hope to address some of the most difficult issues of our day while fostering transformative possibilities for staff and students by fusing the knowledge and vision of both institutions.

This collaboration will address new issues in science, technology, and engineering by utilising the capabilities of both universities, resulting in significant opportunities for faculty, researchers, and students. Along with scholarly interactions and conference participation, there will be an additional focus on cooperation in cutting-edge domains like artificial intelligence, data analytics, quantum computing, and sustainable engineering.

"This partnership with USC Viterbi School of Engineering represents a significant step forward in our mission to provide global opportunities for our students and faculty," said Prof. Ramgopal Rao, Group Vice Chancellor, BITS Pilani, in reference to the partnership. We hope to promote innovation, improve educational opportunities, and significantly advance research and education by fusing the assets of both universities.

This partnership encompasses a number of important projects. The first step will be the introduction of a combined Bachelor of Engineering (BE) and Master of Science (MS) program. Students from BITS Pilani will be eligible for early admission to the University of Southern California's (USC) MS program following the completion of three years of their BE degree.

Under the direction of USC academics, these students will begin their MS curriculum at BITS while also completing their BE prerequisites. Second, USC students will get the opportunity to participate in academic and cultural activities at BITS Pilani campuses for two weeks as part of a short-term exchange program.

Lastly, the collaboration will help USC faculty members who come to BITS and vice versa to conduct seminars, teach classes, and work together on research initiatives.

At a ceremony on June 5 at USC's Olin Hall of Engineering, the agreement was formally signed by Rao, Professor Arya Kumar, and Sachin Arya, among other important BITS Pilani dignitaries. Dean Yortsos, USC Vice President for Global and Online Initiatives Anthony Bailey, USC Vice Dean for Global Academic Initiatives Raghu Raghavendra, USC Viterbi Senior Associate Dean for Admission and Student Engagement Kelly Goulis, and William Schwerin, Director of Graduate Recruitment, were among the USC attendees.