Buffalo, NY – Canisius University announced today that it is expanding its engineering pathways through a new 4+2 partnership with Syracuse University. Available to science and mathematics majors, the new pathway gives students a direct route to a master’s degree in engineering or computer science — currently among the fastest-growing and highest-paying career fields in the country. The new program is available immediately.
“This partnership directly advances Canisius University’s strategic plan by investing in high-impact fields that prepare students to lead in a rapidly evolving global marketplace,” said Nancy Wallace, PhD, dean of the Division of Arts, Education and Sciences. “By developing strong academic partnerships like this one with Syracuse University, we are saving students time on their path to a graduate degree and accelerating their entry into the workforce — without sacrificing the personalized experience that distinguishes a Canisius education.”
The partnership comes as the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects engineering occupations to grow faster than the average for all jobs between 2024 and 2034, fueled by demand in artificial intelligence, robotics and renewable energy. Engineering also ranks among the highest-paying fields for bachelor’s degree holders, with average annual salaries of $85,025 for biomedical engineers, $87,000 for chemical engineers and $101,000 for computer engineers.
The 4+2 pathway is open to Canisius students pursuing undergraduate degrees in biology, biochemistry, biomedical science, chemistry, environmental science or mathematics. Students who maintain a 3.2 GPA and receive a faculty recommendation will receive direct admission to one of 12 master’s programs at Syracuse University’s College of Engineering and Computer Science, spanning fields including biomedical, chemical and computer engineering, as well as computer science, cybersecurity and operations research.
“We are proud to collaborate with Syracuse University to expand opportunities for our students in engineering and computer science,” said Phillip Sheridan, PhD, chair of the Chemistry and Biochemistry department at Canisius. “This 4+2 pathway connects the personalized, rigorous science education students receive at Canisius with the advanced research environment of a nationally recognized engineering school in fields that are shaping our future.”
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to expanding access to high-quality graduate education in engineering and computer science,” added Shikha Nangia, PhD, chair of Syracuse University’s Biomedical and Chemical Engineering Department. “We are excited to welcome talented Canisius students into our master’s programs and to provide them with the advanced technical training, research opportunities and industry connections that will prepare them to lead in rapidly evolving, technology-driven fields.”
Syracuse University’s College of Engineering and Computer Science is a nationally recognized leader in engineering and computing education and research, preparing students to address complex challenges across technology, infrastructure, healthcare, energy and security sectors.
Canisius was founded in 1870 in Buffalo, NY, and is one of 27 Jesuit colleges and universities in the U.S. Consistently ranked among the top institutions in the Northeast, Canisius offers undergraduate, graduate and pre-professional programs distinguished by close student-faculty collaboration, mentoring and an emphasis on ethical, purpose-driven leadership.
