Bronx Community College (BCC) has launched a new collaboration with the Inter American University of Puerto Rico (IAUPR), opening the door to expanded academic pathways, faculty collaboration, and global learning opportunities for students.

The partnership was formalized through a Statement of Shared Interest during a recent visit to IAUPR’s Metropolitan Campus in San Juan. It creates a framework for student exchange, transfer opportunities, joint research, and faculty engagement. College leadership, faculty, and students took part in the visit, helping to ensure the partnership begins with real momentum.

One key area of focus is nursing. The partnership creates a potential pathway for BCC students who complete their associate degree and RN licensure to continue on to a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at IAUPR. The program is offered in English and provides a valuable option for students working toward careers in a high-demand field.

“This gives our students another clear and accessible way to continue their education,” said Dr. Alex Ott, Associate Dean for Curriculum and Academic Programs. “Because we built this relationship in person, with faculty and students involved from the start, we’re in a strong position to turn it into real opportunities.”

During the visit, BCC representatives toured IAUPR’s state-of-the-art facilities, including a full-scale hospital simulation center that replicates real-world clinical environments. The experience highlighted the strength of IAUPR’s health programs and laid the foundation for future collaboration in teaching and program development.

For faculty like Pedro Lopez, a BCC alumnus who now teaches in the Radiologic Technology program, the partnership represents a meaningful extension of the hands-on learning students already receive.

“It gives students the chance to learn in a completely different environment,” Lopez said. “They’ll be exposed to new patient populations and different clinical settings, and that kind of experience makes a real difference in how they grow.”

With more than half of BCC students identifying as Hispanic, the partnership also strengthens cultural connection while expanding access to global experiences.

As both institutions move forward, next steps include developing formal articulation agreements and launching initial program collaborations. The partnership reflects BCC’s continued commitment to expanding access, supporting student success, and creating meaningful pathways for the future.