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Asia Pacific University of Technology & Innovation (APU) has reaffirmed its strategic partnership with the University of Central Missouri (UCM), further strengthening both institutions’ commitment to providing international academic pathways and global learning opportunities for students.

The formalisation of this renewed collaboration took place on 8 January 2026 at UCM’s campus in Warrensburg, Missouri, USA. 

The agreement was signed by Professor Ir EUR ING Dr Vinesh Thiruchelvam, Chief Innovation & Enterprise Officer of APU, and Dr Tim Crowley, Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at UCM. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Dr Roger J. Best, President of UCM, alongside senior leadership members, including Dr Phil Hull, Director of International Student Services, and Dr Ann McCoy, Vice Provost for Academic Programs and Dean of Graduate Studies. 

Building on a Strategic Foundation

This milestone builds on discussions that first began in 2024 during the Asia Pacific Association for International Education (APAIE) conference in Perth, Australia. Since then, the collaboration has grown steadily, culminating in UCM becoming APU’s first strategic partner in the United States. 

During his working visit to the United States, Prof Vinesh engaged extensively with UCM’s Senior Leadership Team as a guest of honour. His trip also included attending the globally renowned Consumer Electronics Show (CES), as well as visiting the Missouri Innovation Center (MIC) in Columbia, Missouri, reflecting APU’s continued efforts to connect academia with innovation ecosystems. 

Expanding Academic Pathways and Opportunities

At the heart of the partnership is a 2+2 undergraduate pathway programme in key technology disciplines, including Computer Science, Cybersecurity, and Data Science/Artificial Intelligence. Under this model, students will complete the first two years of their studies at APU, followed by two years at UCM, graduating with a dual degree awarded by both institutions.

In addition, APU students will benefit from UCM’s Global Partner Scholarship programme, which covers non-resident tuition and fees for international students—significantly enhancing accessibility to a US-based education.

UCM, a public university founded in 1871, is recognised for its affordability and breadth of academic offerings. Serving approximately 12,000 students, the university offers over 150 majors across disciplines such as nursing, education, and aviation, alongside its strong portfolio of accredited programmes.

Shared Vision for Student Success

“UCM is pleased to reaffirm our strategic partnership with Asia Pacific University as its primary U.S. partner institution,” said Dr Tim Crowley. “UCM is committed to transforming students into leaders and providing affordable opportunities for students who desire to learn from our AACSB and ABET-accredited academic programs. 

“Our partnership with APU expands UCM's network of global partners in Malaysia and offers APU students the benefits of the UCM Global Partner Scholarship program. We look forward to welcoming APU students and faculty in the future and continuing our discussions with APU leadership about additional areas of collaboration for the mutual benefit of both institutions,” he added. 

Dr Phil Hull emphasised that UCM’s long-standing tradition of welcoming international students aligns closely with this collaboration, reinforcing the university’s mission to prepare graduates for an increasingly interconnected global community. 

Strengthening Industry-Relevant Education

Reflecting on the visit, Prof Vinesh expressed optimism about the partnership’s long-term impact. 

“I’m honoured to have visited the UCM campus and to have met an impeccable team led by President Roger Best,” he said. “I can clearly see the alignment in the operating principles of both APU and UCM as we continue to deliver education that develops industry-ready talent. 

“Much like APU, UCM demonstrates strong student-centricity, alongside a compelling suite of contemporary undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. This visit has undoubtedly laid a strong foundation for a meaningful and enduring partnership between our institutions,” he concluded. 

Both universities share a common focus on employability and industry relevance. This is exemplified by APU’s strong graduate outcomes, including a 100% employment rate at the point of graduation, as reported by Malaysia’s Ministry of Higher Education. APU’s designation as a Premier Digital Tech Institution (PDTI) by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) further underscores its commitment to delivering high-quality digital technology education aligned with evolving industry needs. 

Advancing a Global Academic Ecosystem 

As APU and UCM continue to deepen their collaboration, both institutions are well-positioned to expand academic mobility, co-develop programmes, and create new opportunities that empower students to thrive in a globalised workforce. 

For more information about UCM’s international programmes, please visit the university’s official website.