IISER Tirupati, University of Melbourne launch BSc Hons degree program with two years in Australia

The University of Melbourne and Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Tirupati have launched a 2+2 dual degree programme in Bachelor of Science Integrated (Honours). Announced at the Melbourne Global Centre in Delhi, the initiative aims to offer research-intensive education.

Indian students will undertake their first two years of study at IISER Tirupati before completing the final two years in Melbourne, Australia. Upon completion of the program, graduates will be awarded two Bachelor honours degrees from both institutions.

The curriculum offers students the opportunity to specialize in a number of disciplines including biotechnology, chemistry, ecosystem science, environmental science, food science, genetics, physics and plant science. All students enrolled are automatically considered members of the Science Global Scholars Program, promoting international collaboration.

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International research mobility

Students will have access to accelerated postgraduate courses, allowing them to pursue master's degrees with the potential of advanced standing. The programme provides a framework for academic exchange and global talent mobility between Australia and India.

University of Melbourne pro vice-chancellor (global) Frank Vetere said, “Together, the University of Melbourne and IISER Tirupati are fostering a new generation of globally connected scientists equipped to contribute solutions to challenges that transcend national boundaries. India is home to a vibrant and rapidly growing scientific community”.

He also added, "Partnerships such as this one create valuable opportunities for both institutions to learn from one another, share expertise and strengthen research and education links between our countries.”

University of Melbourne dean of science Moira O’Bryan stated: "By combining world-class research capability with a commitment to education and public engagement, we are creating a platform for scientific exchange and graduating the next generation of scientists and innovators needed to solve the challenges of tomorrow."

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Beyond Australia and India

IISER Tirupati director Santanu Bhattacharya noted that the degree supports national efforts toward international knowledge exchange.

Bhattacharya said: “It presents students with an exceptional opportunity to engage in research-led learning across two diverse academic settings, enabling them to establish international networks that will define their future scientific endeavours.”

Beyond degree offerings, both institutions will host Frontiers of Science for Global Advances next month. The series of public events across India will feature research developments in fields such as climate science, quantum technologies, and agriculture.