University of Melbourne, IISER Tirupati Launch 2+2 Dual Degree in Science; Students to Earn Two Honours Degrees

The University of Melbourne in Australia and the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) Tirupati have launched a new 2+2 dual degree programme in science, offering Indian students an opportunity to study in two countries and earn honours degrees from both institutions.

Announced at the Melbourne Global Centre in Delhi, the Bachelor of Science Integrated (Honours) programme will allow students to complete the first two years of their studies at IISER Tirupati before moving to the University of Melbourne for the remaining two years. Upon successful completion of the programme, students will receive two bachelor’s honours degrees, one from each institution.

The partnership aims to strengthen research-oriented education, promote international academic collaboration and give students exposure to different scientific and learning environments.

University of Melbourne-IISER Tirupati Dual Degree: Courses Offered

Students enrolled in the programme will be able to choose from several science specialisations. These include biotechnology, chemistry, ecosystem science, environmental science, food science, genetics, physics and plant science.

The programme is designed to combine academic learning with research exposure, helping students develop scientific knowledge and skills across two university systems.

Participants will also automatically become part of the Science Global Scholars Program, an initiative intended to encourage research collaboration, international talent mobility and scientific exchange between participating institutions.

The dual degree pathway is expected to provide students with opportunities to build international academic networks and explore further study in science-related disciplines.

What University Officials Said

University leaders highlighted the programme’s potential to develop scientists equipped to work across international research networks.

University of Melbourne Pro Vice-Chancellor (Global) Professor Frank Vetere said the initiative would help develop globally connected scientists capable of addressing complex challenges.

Professor Moira O’Bryan, Dean of Science at the University of Melbourne, emphasised the role of research-led learning and international collaboration in preparing students for scientific careers.

IISER Tirupati Director Professor Santanu Bhattacharya said the programme would enable students to learn in two academic environments while developing international connections.

The collaboration reflects efforts by Indian and overseas institutions to create educational pathways that combine domestic scientific training with international academic experience.

Postgraduate Opportunities and Research Collaboration

The partnership is also expected to create pathways for postgraduate education. Graduates may be eligible to pursue master’s programmes and could complete certain qualifications in a shorter period through advanced standing, subject to the receiving institution’s admission criteria and applicable requirements.

However, students should confirm the programme’s admission process, eligibility conditions, tuition fees, scholarship availability and progression requirements directly with the participating institutions before applying.

Beyond the dual degree, the University of Melbourne and IISER Tirupati will jointly organise the Frontiers of Science for Global Advances lecture series across India in November 2026.

The planned events will feature expert talks and panel discussions on subjects such as biotechnology, climate science, quantum technologies, ecosystems, agriculture and sustainability.

Through the dual degree and associated academic activities, the institutions aim to strengthen scientific exchange and provide students with opportunities to engage with emerging research areas.

For Indian students interested in science and research careers, the programme offers a route to study in India and Australia while earning qualifications from two institutions. Further details on admissions and programme requirements should be obtained from the official university announcements.