HITAM partners with US universities for new Integrated Twinning Program

Hyderabad: The Hyderabad Institute of Technology and Management (HITAM) has introduced the International 3+1+1 Integrated Twinning Program in collaboration with leading universities in the United States.

The initiative allows students to complete three years at HITAM in India and the remaining two years at a partner institution abroad, earning both a BTech from Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University Hyderabad (JNTUH) and a Master’s degree from an international university.

Global academic collaborations

HITAM has signed agreements with the Milwaukee School of Engineering (MSOE), the University of Alabama in Huntsville (UAH) and George Mason University (GMU). These partnerships aim to streamline the academic transition for students pursuing higher education abroad and provide them with access to international research and industry collaborations.

Padma Shri Dr Sanjay G Dhande, chairman, Governing Body, HITAM, stated, “The International 3+1+1 Program is a transformative step in making global education more accessible to Indian students. This collaboration ensures that HITAM graduates are equipped with the skills, knowledge and industry exposure necessary to thrive in the global workforce.”

Pathway to international work experience

Students completing the program will be eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT) in the United States, allowing them to work in their field for up to three years after graduation. The program also offers financial assistance and scholarship opportunities to make international education more affordable.

Dr Jon Hakkila, Associate Provost, UAH, said, “The University of Alabama in Huntsville is excited to partner with HITAM and JNTUH on the Integrated (3+1+1) Twinning Programs in aerospace/mechanical engineering and computer engineering/science. The faculty from both institutions have worked together to create educational and career development opportunities in two of the world’s leading technology hubs: Hyderabad and Huntsville.”

Industry-focused learning

The curriculum has been designed in collaboration with industry leaders and research institutions. It emphasizes problem-based learning and hands-on projects to ensure students develop practical skills relevant to global job markets.

Dr Kamaljeet Sanghera, executive director, George Mason University, highlighted, “The key to expanding talent and advancing education lies in providing students with multidisciplinary opportunities. Through this program, students will earn an undergraduate degree from HITAM and a Master’s degree from George Mason University while engaging in real-world projects that equip them with practical skills for the technology industry.”

Equipping students for emerging technologies

The program also focuses on preparing students for the evolving demands of AI-driven industries and digital transformation. HITAM has invested in modern classrooms and upgraded learning spaces for students enrolled in the Integrated Twinning Program.

Dr Ruth Barratt, chair, Rader School of Business, MSOE, said, “This initiative prepares students to thrive in an AI-driven world. Through MSOE’s collaboration with HITAM and JNTUH, students gain global exposure, technical expertise, and leadership skills, equipping them to drive innovation and solve complex challenges.”

By offering an integrated academic pathway, industry exposure, and international work opportunities, HITAM’s new program is set to provide students with a competitive edge in the global engineering and technology sectors.