Goucher College and Air University, Islamabad Announce International Partnership

Goucher College and Air University, Islamabad, have announced a partnership to develop cross-institutional programming for students at both institutions. This partnership builds upon Goucher’s continued commitment to global education and inspiring global changemakers, and it will help students from both institutions develop international perspectives and cross-cultural competencies.   

“Goucher College is proud to partner with Air University to create meaningful academic exchanges that benefit students and faculty at both institutions,” said David Grossman, professor of international business and marketing at Goucher College. “This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to global engagement and academic excellence, offering students the opportunity to study business in diverse cultural contexts and providing faculty support that strengthens research and teaching. We look forward to building a dynamic, reciprocal relationship that prepares our students to lead in a global economy.” 

Key areas of focus for both institutions will include 4+1 undergraduate and graduate degree opportunities, study abroad and student exchange programs, faculty professional development and exchange, and virtual guest lectures. As part of the academic partnership pathways, Air University undergraduates will have the opportunity to complete Goucher’s master’s in applied policy analysis or environmental sustainability programs in a shorter timeframe, earning both degrees in five years.   

“Air University is delighted to partner with Goucher College to expand opportunities for our students and faculty,” said Umair Ahmad Chaudhary, Addl. Director BD & SE, Air University. “This collaboration will foster impactful academic exchanges, strengthen research linkages, and advance our shared commitment to excellence in education and innovation. By combining our strengths, we aim to equip our graduates with the skills and perspectives needed to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.”  

Building on Goucher’s signature study abroad programs, Goucher would develop an intensive course abroad two-to-three-week summer program hosted at Goucher, offering an introduction to the U.S. for Air University undergraduates. Expanding on this would be a semester-long exchange program for students.  

Faculty development and research will also be at the fore front of this partnership through exchange opportunities and virtual lectures. Both Goucher and Air University will create opportunities for faculty members from both institutions to participate in exchange programs, collaborative research, and professional development activities. The institutions will also facilitate virtual guest lectures by faculty from both institutions to enhance curriculum delivery and provide students with diverse international perspectives. 

With Goucher’s established and respected community-based learning (CBL) program as a learning model, Air University will explore the CBL model and identify potential areas for integration within its own programming. Collaboration opportunities will also be explored for interdisciplinary learning, international research seminars, and virtual workshops. A working group of faculty members from both institutions will establish best practices for curriculum design, incorporating real-world case studies, and industry projects.  

This is the second international institution partnership for Goucher College. Earlier this year, Goucher established a multi-faceted partnership with Tashkent International University to offer those students undergraduate degree pathways.