The School of Information Studies (iSchool) has announced a partnership with the Ridge College of Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences at Mercyhurst University intended to attract more students to today’s high-demand information management fields.
Mercyhurst and Syracuse made the agreement official during a signing ceremony on Mercyhurst’s campus in Erie, Pa.
Administrators from both institutions gather to mark the partnership. From left are: iSchool Assistant Dean Susan Corieri, MU Provost David Dausey, MU President Michael Victor, iSchool Interim Dean Jeffrey Stanton, Ridge College Dean James Breckenridge and Ridge College Associate Dean Randall Clemons.
The new relationship provides Mercyhurst’s undergraduates the opportunity for accelerated study toward one of two master of science degrees from the iSchool: information management and library and information science, including the library and information science school media specialization, with acceptance in the iSchool’s “Fast Track” program.
Under the plan, Mercyhurst students would take two recommended graduate courses during the summer between their junior and senior years. As seniors, they would take online graduate courses, one in each of the fall and spring semesters. Upon graduation, Mercyhurst students would attend Syracuse and complete their master’s degree within one year of full-time study, rather than two. They also have the option of entering the workforce and taking courses part time or online to complete the degree.
“I’m so pleased that we are able to join forces with Mercyhurst on this program,” says iSchool Interim Dean Jeffrey M. Stanton. “I believe that information management is the perfect complement to the programs offered by the Ridge College of Intelligence Studies and Applied Sciences. I know that Mercyhurst graduates will bring fresh perspectives to their graduate classes here at the iSchool.”
“I definitely can see our intelligence studies and computer systems undergraduate students interested in this graduate program, but since the study of information facilitates advancement in so many fields, I anticipate students from all different majors would be interested,” says James Breckenridge, dean of the Ridge College, which recently restructured to house majors in communications and mathematics and computer systems, among others.
“A partnership between these two institutions, known for being among the top schools in information science and intelligence studies in the country, is ripe with opportunities,” says Mercyhurst University President Michael Victor. “Both have a long tradition of leading innovation and change and we look forward to a fruitful collaboration.”
