Stan State, Victoria University of Wellington Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Collaborate, Explore Joint Educational Opportunities

Stanislaus State and Victoria University of Wellington in New Zealand signed a five-year agreement this week that will allow the institutions to engage in joint research, explore educational opportunities for faculty and students, and share best practices.

On Oct. 13, Victoria University Vice-Chancellor Grant Guilford, Stanislaus State President Ellen Junn, and senior administrators from both universities gathered virtually to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).

“Working closely together, this memorandum reinforces our campus’ dedication to provide transformative experiences for our students,” Junn said. “By establishing partnerships with like-minded universities, we are continuing our mission to expand our students’ intellectual, creative, and social horizons.” 

Through the MOU, Stanislaus State students will be able to study abroad at the university with an enrollment of 3,700 international students from more than 110 countries. Students at both institutions will also be able to access a wide variety of general education and major courses as the campuses share similar programs.

Research suggests studying abroad experiences open students’ mind, instill a sense of confidence, and enhance their employment opportunities. 

Founded in 1897, Victoria University is one of New Zealand’s oldest and most prestigious higher education institutions and is the only university to twice top the country’s main measure of research excellence. The MOU demonstrates Victoria University’s continued interest in partnering with the California State University, the largest public four-year university system in the United States. Victoria University also has an MOU with Chico State.