Global Partnerships

BU Expands Global Reach: New Partnership with European Universities Opens Dual-Degree Programs

December 5, 2025
4 min read
International Relations Office
Students collaborating internationally

Bloomington University has signed landmark partnership agreements with four prestigious European universities, opening unprecedented dual-degree pathways that will allow students to earn qualifications from both institutions while experiencing education across two continents.

The agreements, formalized during a ceremony at BU's Paris Campus on November 28, 2025, represent the most significant expansion of the university's international academic partnerships to date. Students enrolled in participating programs will have the opportunity to spend semesters at partner institutions, completing coursework that counts toward degrees from both universities.

Our New European Partners

The partnership network spans four countries, bringing together institutions known for excellence in complementary disciplines:

🇳🇱

University of Amsterdam

Netherlands

Business Analytics Data Science Economics
🇩🇪

Technical University of Munich

Germany

Engineering Computer Science AI & Robotics
🇫🇷

Sciences Po Paris

France

International Relations Political Science Public Policy
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IE University

Spain

MBA Entrepreneurship Innovation

How the Dual-Degree Programs Work

The dual-degree structure allows students to complete their education in a flexible format, typically over an extended timeframe that accommodates study at both institutions. Depending on the specific program, students may:

  • Split their studies: Complete foundational years at BU in Curaçao, then spend their final year(s) at the European partner institution
  • Alternate semesters: Move between campuses each semester, gaining diverse academic perspectives
  • Capstone abroad: Conduct final-year projects, research, or internships in Europe with academic supervision from both institutions

🎓 Two Degrees, One Journey

Upon successful completion, students receive two separate, fully-recognized degrees—one from Bloomington University and one from their European partner institution—enhancing their credentials in the global job market.

Statement from the Vice Chancellor

"These partnerships embody our vision of preparing students for success in a globalized world. By combining the strengths of Caribbean and European education systems, we're creating graduates who are not just academically excellent, but culturally agile and globally connected. This is transformative for our students' futures."
Vice Chancellor
Prof. Dr. Sathish Babu R. Vice Chancellor, Bloomington University

Implementation Timeline

The partnership will be rolled out in phases, with the first cohort of dual-degree students beginning their programs in the Fall 2026 semester:

December 2025
Agreement Finalization

All legal and academic frameworks established; faculty exchange protocols confirmed

January - March 2026
Curriculum Alignment

Academic teams from all institutions work together to finalize credit transfer frameworks and course equivalencies

April 2026
Applications Open

Current BU students and new applicants can apply for dual-degree pathways

September 2026
First Cohort Begins

Pioneer students start their dual-degree journey across Caribbean and European campuses

Benefits for Students

The dual-degree programs offer numerous advantages for participating students:

  • Enhanced Employability: Two degrees from two continents significantly boost career prospects with multinational employers
  • Cultural Immersion: Living and studying in Europe provides invaluable cross-cultural experience
  • Language Skills: Opportunities to develop proficiency in French, German, Dutch, or Spanish
  • Network Building: Access to alumni networks from both institutions across the globe
  • Research Opportunities: Collaborate with research teams at leading European universities
  • Scholarship Support: Special scholarships available for dual-degree participants

Eligibility and Application

Students interested in the dual-degree programs should maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0 and demonstrate English proficiency. Some programs may require additional language skills or prerequisites specific to the partner institution. Current BU students can express interest through the International Relations Office, while prospective students can indicate their interest in dual-degree pathways on their application.

About Our Partner Institutions

Each partner university brings unique strengths to the collaboration. The University of Amsterdam is consistently ranked among the top 60 universities globally and is renowned for its research in social sciences and business. Technical University of Munich is Germany's top-ranked technical university with world-leading engineering and computer science programs. Sciences Po Paris is one of Europe's most prestigious institutions for political science and international affairs. IE University in Spain is recognized globally for its innovative approach to business education and entrepreneurship.

For more information about dual-degree opportunities, prospective students are encouraged to attend the upcoming information sessions or contact the International Relations Office directly.

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