April 21, 2026 — Marist University’s School of Science has announced a new academic partnership with Syracuse University’s College of Engineering and Computer Science (ECS), creating a streamlined pathway for Marist undergraduates to earn a 30‑credit master’s degree in engineering. The program enables Marist students to turn their interest in science into a high‑demand engineering career—in just six years.

Called a 4+2 degree pathway because students earn their bachelor’s degree in four years and then their master’s two years immediately after that, the program was designed with flexibility in mind.

• The partnership allows students to explore and build a strong foundation in science at Marist while securing a clear, direct path into Syracuse ECS for advanced study.
• Students do not need to commit to engineering as high school seniors; instead, they gain the freedom to discover their academic interests knowing a direct pathway to a master’s degree in engineering is available.

Students who maintain a cumulative GPA of 3.2 or higher and receive a faculty recommendation will be guaranteed direct admission into one of Syracuse ECS’s master’s programs, subject to space availability, offering an efficient and accelerated route to an in‑demand graduate credential that helps them stand out in the job market.

The pathway includes a specialized bridge course designed to equip students from non‑engineering backgrounds with essential engineering fundamentals, ensuring a smooth and confident transition into graduate‑level coursework.

“We are genuinely excited about this new agreement, which creates a clear and streamlined pathway for our students to advance into a Master’s of Engineering program at Syracuse University,” said Dr. Alicia Slater, Dean of Marist’s School of Science. “This opportunity opens access to a high-demand field while reinforcing our commitment to our students’ success.”

Through this partnership, participating Marist students will have access to a wide range of Syracuse University master’s programs in high‑growth fields, including biomedical, chemical, mechanical, civil, and environmental engineering, as well as computer engineering, computer science, and cybersecurity—preparing graduates to meet the needs of a rapidly evolving global workforce with both a rigorous science background and advanced engineering expertise.

“This partnership with Syracuse University strengthens Marist’s commitment to providing ambitious, career‑focused academic opportunities for our students,” said Dr. Neil Fitzgerald, professor of chemistry and the inaugural Joseph T. Negler ’70 Chair of Science. “Our graduates are a source of pride for us, and we are very pleased to offer them a direct route into the engineering profession through this innovative collaboration.”

Marist students interested in learning more about the 4+2 engineering pathway are encouraged to speak with Dr. Fitzgerald for additional details.