THE MARIANO Marcos State University and the University of Arizona in the United States collaborated to establish the first micro-campus in the Philippines in order to bring global educational opportunities to Filipino students.

The partnership was formalized through a global direct agreement between MMSU President Shirley Agrupis and UA Global Operations Chief Executive Officer Brent White.

The agreement paved the way for MMSU to join top universities worldwide that implements American Degree Pathway and Global Campus Experience programs.

“The ADP program enables incoming students to earn up to two years of direct, undergraduate credits from UA through a mix of in-person and online courses offered through a micro-campus. It includes multiple academic pathways which will enable students to take courses that will satisfy UA’s degree requirements or transfer to other US universities,” MMSU said.

“On the other hand, GCE program offers over 60-degree programs delivered fully online in English by UA professors, with student access to micro-campus’ facilities and services, providing a unique in-person college experience, with the convenience of an online education,” it added.

Hillary Vance, Senior Director of Southeast Asia UA Global, said the partnership can help MMSU in advancing its academic excellence, research and global engagements.

“It is thrilling that MMSU is now our first Philippine university partner in the world campus network, and we look forward to expanding our partnership with you in the years to come. The collaboration also includes new initiatives in research and educational exchange between the students, faculty, and staff of the two universities,” Vance said.

Under the agreement, UA will provide MMSU a special discounted rate; large selection of top-ranked Arizona online courses; professors to teach online courses; academic advising and support; access to its Center for English as a Second Language; and connection to the Arizona main campus through “Arizona live.”

On the other hand, MMSU will provide access to its campus and facilities; inclusion in its students programming and activities; opening of opportunities for social networking and community building; on-ground tutors and academic support; navigation of regulatory environment and assistance securing all necessary approvals in its host country; marketing, recruitment, and enrollment advising; reporting and payment of taxes for its taxable program revenue; and miscellaneous logistical support.

Matt Keener, Cultural Attaché of the US Embassy in Manila, said the partnership “sets the bar for Philippine universities in providing new opportunities for Filipino students.”

He stressed that it is essential for the youth to have an international education in the face of an increasingly competitive global economy.