Assumption Announces Second Collaborative Accelerated Master’s Program with Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Assumption University and Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) are expanding their partnership with the launch of a new Collaborative Accelerated Master’s Program (CAMP) in Mechanical Engineering, offering Assumption students a streamlined pathway to earn a master’s degree from WPI.
Beginning in the 2026–27 academic year, this accelerated program allows qualified Assumption students majoring in mathematics or physics to earn a Bachelor of Arts from Assumption and a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering from WPI in an expedited time frame.
While completing their undergraduate studies at Assumption, students can take up to two selected senior- and graduate-level courses at WPI through the existing HECCMA (Higher Education Consortium of Central Massachusetts) cross-registration agreement at no additional cost per year, allowing them to begin graduate-level engineering coursework before earning their bachelor’s degree. Students may double-count up to 12 graduate credits toward both degrees through the CAMPs framework, reducing both time for completion of degrees and overall cost.
“This program opens an exciting pathway for Assumption students with strong foundations in mathematics and physics to transition into advanced engineering study,” said Maria-Teresa Herd, associate professor of physics at Assumption University and CAMP coordinator for mechanical engineering. “The close proximity of our campuses and the strength of our collaboration with WPI create meaningful opportunities for students to prepare for high-demand careers in engineering.”
Students typically apply to the CAMP during their junior year at Assumption. If accepted, they may begin taking approved WPI courses during their senior year, including graduate-level mechanical engineering coursework. Students who maximize double-counted credits may complete the WPI master’s degree in as little as one additional academic year.
“This program reflects what makes graduate education at WPI distinctive,” said Pratap Rao, associate professor of mechanical and materials engineering at WPI and graduate coordinator for mechanical engineering. “As an R1 research university, WPI offers students the opportunity to engage directly in high-impact research while applying their knowledge through hands-on, project-based learning. For Assumption students, this pathway not only accelerates time to an advanced degree, but also provides the real-world experience and technical depth that employers are seeking in today’s engineering workforce.”
The new CAMP in mechanical engineering builds on the successful collaborative graduate programming already established between Assumption and WPI in neuroscience and reflects both institutions’ shared commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and student success.
Students interested in learning more are encouraged to speak with their academic advisor and the CAMP coordinator early in their undergraduate career to plan appropriate coursework and preparation.