Syracuse University’s College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS) is proud to announce new academic partnerships with Canisius University, Hobart and William Smith Colleges, Marist University, Mercy University,  Nazareth University, and Utica University,  creating a streamlined pathway for undergraduate students with non-engineering majors to earn a master’s degree in engineering through a 4+2 program.

Under these agreements, undergraduate students in science or mathematics programs at any of the six partner institutions who maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher and receive a faculty recommendation will be eligible for direct admission into one of 12 master’s programs at Syracuse University’s College of Engineering and Computer Science.

The pathway includes a bridge course designed to prepare students from non-engineering backgrounds with the foundational engineering knowledge needed for graduate-level study, ensuring a smooth transition into advanced engineering programs.

Available programs span a wide range of high-demand fields, including biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, civil engineering, environmental engineering, computer engineering, computer science, and cybersecurity, among others – equipping graduates with the advanced technical expertise needed to thrive in today’s rapidly evolving workforce.

“This partnership reflects our commitment to expanding access to graduate engineering education and creating clear, achievable pathways for talented students across New York State and beyond,” said Shikha Nangia, Milton and Ann Stevenson Endowed Professor of Biomedical and Chemical Engineering and Chair of the Department of Biomedical and Chemical Engineering. “By combining strong undergraduate preparation with targeted bridge coursework, we are enabling students from diverse academic backgrounds to pursue advanced engineering degrees and contribute to solving complex technological and societal challenges.”

Students interested in learning more about the 4+2 pathway should contact their academic advisor or email topgrads@syr.edu for program details and application information.

Marist University

“Marist University School of Science is excited to enter into this partnership with Syracuse University. Our graduates are a source of pride for us and we are very pleased to be able to offer them a route to an engineering profession.” – Neil Fitzgerald Professor of Chemistry and the inaugural Joesph T. Negler (’70) chair of science at Marist University

Mercy College

“I am thrilled regarding this articulation agreement between Mercy University and Syracuse University. This will create a clear and efficient pathway for Mercy’s undergraduate students to transition from a Bachelor of Science in Biology program into an engineering degree, expanding access to engineering careers while allowing students to build a strong scientific foundation and complete their studies in a structured, supportive academic progression. I look forward to this collaboration and many more in the future.” – Devdutta Deb, Ph.D. Program Director, Biology, Assistant Professor, Premed Advisor, Activity Director Title III STEM Ready Grant, Department Of Natural Sciences, Mercy University

Canisius University

“This partnership represents an exciting opportunity for Canisius students majoring in the sciences and math.   It opens a direct access pathway for Canisius graduates into the outstanding MS in engineering and computer science programs at Syracuse.” – Phil Sheridan, Professor and Chair, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry.

Hobart William and Smith Colleges

“We are pleased to continue strengthening our partnership with Syracuse University. This direct‑admission pathway into graduate programs in the College of Engineering and Computer Science creates a powerful opportunity for Hobart and William Smith students to pursue advanced study at a leading institution, while providing Syracuse with students whose education is grounded in both strong scientific preparation and the liberal arts. Together, this collaboration benefits our region by helping to retain talented graduates and support workforce development in high‑demand fields.” – Sarah Kirk, Provost and Dean of Faculty.

Nazareth University

“This partnership between Nazareth University and the Syracuse College of Engineering and Computer Science is a very exciting opportunity for Nazareth students,” said Thomas Lappas, Ph.D., dean of Nazareth University’s College of Liberal Arts, Sciences, Business, and Education. “Nazareth is very impressed by Syracuse University’s carefully crafted summer bridge program, which promises to support recent math and science bachelor’s degree recipients in familiarizing themselves with the language and culture of engineering and reinforcing their applied science skills before starting in their graduate programs in the fall.” – Tom Lappas, Dean, College of Liberal Arts, Sciences, Business, and Education (CLASBE) and Professor of History.

Utica University

“Our institutions have shared a close relationship since Syracuse University founded Utica College in 1946. This direct admission agreement builds that legacy by expanding opportunities for our undergraduate students, many of whom are first-generation, to pursue high-demand fields such as engineering, which we are unable to offer at Utica University. By establishing a guaranteed admission pathway for our qualified students, this partnership empowers them to pursue an affordable education and fulfilling career while remaining in the central New York region. We are proud to be the first institution to partner with Syracuse University in this way.” – Sharon Wise, Dean of Natural Sciences and Math & Distinguished Professor of Biology.