Engineering Dual Degree Program

Nebraska Wesleyan University holds dual degree partnerships in engineering with two institutions: Washington University (St. Louis, Mo.) and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Students begin this program studying physics, chemistry or biochemistry at Nebraska Wesleyan University, then transfer to WashU or UNL for specialized study in engineering. Students earn degrees from both schools in as little as five years: a bachelor’s degree in their science from NWU, plus a bachelor’s degree in an engineering specialization from WashU or UNL.

The program is designed around a course sequence that allows students to complete both degrees in just five years—three at NWU, and two at the partner institution.

Students may choose to follow different plans. For instance, a student-athlete may wish to use all four years of their NCAA eligibility at NWU. Students who follow different plans may need to adjust this five-year schedule.

Two reasons for two degrees

Students who want to become engineers often assume it’s best to specialize in engineering coursework as early as possible. That’s not necessarily true.

Here’s why a dual degree program makes great sense for prospective engineers.

1. It’s more effective. 

Engineers with a stronger foundation of science knowledge bring more to their profession. They’re better equipped to solve unusual problems, adapt to new circumstances and collaborate with professionals outside their field.

“Our dual degree graduates can say, ‘Hey, you’re looking for an engineer. I’m an engineer. But guess what? I’m also a chemist.’ Or, ‘I’m also a physicist.’ Employers know that broader skillset means they can tackle problems in more unique ways.”

—Nathaniel Cunningham, professor of physics

2. It’s a better experience. 

NWU’s dual degree program helps you combine the strengths of different institutions and campus cultures. Nebraska Wesleyan offers accessible opportunities to compete in NCAA III athletics, be a leader on campus, and engage in interests like choir, theatre or band. Our closeknit campus and smaller classes also enable stronger relationships with your professors.

Then students can transfer to experience a major metropolitan city like St. Louis, or take advantage of unique research connections at Lincoln’s Big Ten university.

Engineering partner schools

Nebraska Wesleyan has a longstanding engineering dual degree partnership with Washington University in St. Louis, Mo. NWU added a similar agreement with the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s College of Engineering in 2025.

Both schools have outstanding undergraduate engineering programs with differing areas of specialization, costs and campus cultures. Your best fit hinges on your own needs, strengths and goals.

This dual degree program connects to these engineering specializations at our partner institutions.