How is Mohan Babu University Partnering with QS Top 100 Penn State for India’s First Joint Degree Programme?

Tirupati, May 16 (NationPress) In a groundbreaking initiative that is set to transform higher education prospects for Indian students, Mohan Babu University (MBU) has joined forces with Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) in the US to introduce India’s inaugural joint degree programme in collaboration with a QS Top 100 ranked global institution.

Ranked 89th in the QS World University Rankings 2025, Penn State is acclaimed as one of the foremost public research universities worldwide. This collaboration presents Indian students with the opportunity for global exposure and a prestigious US degree at almost half the typical cost, alongside access to elite academics, cutting-edge research, and enhanced career prospects.

The Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was formalized at the MBU campus in Tirupati, attended by Dr. M. Mohan Babu, Chancellor of MBU; Vishnu Manchu, Pro-Chancellor; and Vinay Maheshwari, Executive Director. Penn State representatives included Dr. David M. Callejo Pérez, Chancellor, and Dr. Vahid Motevalli, Interim Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs. This partnership aims to provide Indian students with a cohesive international academic experience.

“This collaboration empowers our students by granting access to exceptional global education at a fraction of the usual cost. It brings the finest international academic standards to Tirupati while unlocking transformative career opportunities for Indian students,” stated Vishnu Manchu, Pro-Chancellor of MBU.

“We are honored to collaborate with Mohan Babu University, an institution that aligns with our dedication to academic innovation and inclusive excellence. This joint degree symbolizes more than just a partnership; it is a collective mission to cultivate globally aware and professionally adaptable graduates,” remarked Dr. David M. Callejo Pérez, Chancellor of Penn State University.

Under the undergraduate 2+2 structure, students will complete their initial two years at MBU and the subsequent two years at Penn State, culminating in a joint degree from both institutions.

For those seeking postgraduate studies, the collaboration presents two options: a 4+1 programme (four years at MBU followed by one year at Penn State) and a 1+1 programme (one year at each institution).

This partnership grants Indian students access to distinguished faculty, advanced research facilities, and a curriculum that meets international standards.

Beyond academics, students will experience diverse learning environments and align with global industry benchmarks, significantly boosting their professional adaptability and employability both in India and internationally.

The programme is designed with a focus on accessibility and affordability, offering substantial cost savings—almost 50 percent less than pursuing a full international degree abroad.

Additionally, dedicated scholarships and financial assistance will be available to support eligible students. While enrolled at Penn State, students can also take advantage of on-campus employment opportunities to help manage living expenses.

With a well-structured credit transfer system between Mohan Babu University and Penn State, the programme is designed to facilitate a smooth transition for students.

Both institutions will provide extensive academic and administrative support through dedicated coordinators, as well as visa guidance and ongoing career counseling to assist students throughout their international academic journey.

“We are committed to creating life-altering opportunities for our students at Mohan Babu University. This partnership with Penn State guarantees that our students receive a truly global academic experience, access to pioneering research, and an international degree—without the usual financial hurdles. It’s a significant step toward our vision of revolutionizing education in India,” expressed Vinay Maheshwari, Executive Director of MBU.

This collaboration signifies a monumental achievement in Mohan Babu University’s pursuit of becoming a globally connected academic powerhouse. By making an international degree accessible to ambitious Indian students, the university strengthens its mission of providing world-class education that is more inclusive, accessible, and future-oriented.