Representatives of the University of Houston and Dalian Maritime University (DMU) in China signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to further mutual goals of academic and research opportunities for students and faculty.
The agreement caps an ongoing positive relationship between the two schools and contributes further to the regional understanding between both countries. The relationship will enhance the international experience in the areas of research, joint programs and exchange programs for both faculty and students.
The memorandum was signed on Feb. 22 by representatives from the Dalian Maritime University, including Sun Yuqing, president of Dalian Maritime University, Shan Hongjun, vice president of international affairs, and Zhao Youtao, dean of the marine engineering college. Joseph W. Tedesco, Elizabeth D. Rockwell Dean of the Cullen College of Engineering, Suresh Khator, Cullen College associate dean of graduate programs and computing facilities, Paula Myrick Short, UH vice president for academic affairs and provost, and Jaime Ortiz, UH vice provost for global strategies and studies, signed the agreement on behalf of UH.
Dalian Maritime University, one of China’s premiere maritime institutions, and the University of Houston, a global leader in subsea engineering education, share many common goals. The MOU seeks to leverage the two universities’ mutual interests in the fields of offshore energy and subsea engineering by sharing expertise, resources and facilities as well as jointly developing research and academic programs.
Initially, the collaboration will allow for a streamlined process for students from Dalian Maritime University to attend graduate school and earn graduate degrees from the UH Cullen College of Engineering. In the longer term, both universities will actively seek opportunities for jointly-operated research centers, programs and facilities.
The memorandum lasts for five years.
See photos of the signing ceremony here.