QUT and Dalian University of Technology (DUT) have celebrated the official opening of a new engineering school in China, marking a significant milestone in their transnational education partnership.
The Queensland Technology International School of Engineering, Dalian University of Technology (DQSE), based at DUT's Panjin Campus, officially welcomed its first cohort of more than 230 students at the opening ceremony on Sunday 18 October.
Established with approval from China's Ministry of Education in late 2025, the school brings together the academic expertise of both universities to deliver internationally focused engineering education.
The inaugural cohort comprises 232 students studying in Computer and Software Systems and Medical Engineering.
Over the four-year program, students will undertake an internationally focused engineering education that draws on the combined academic expertise and resources of QUT and DUT.
Delivered in English, the program will integrate QUT’s real world engineering curriculum into the classroom, providing students with the opportunity to graduate with a bachelor’s degree from both universities.
QUT Executive Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Australian Dean of the new school, Distinguished Professor Yuantong Gu, said the partnership reflected the universities' shared commitment to preparing graduates for an increasingly interconnected world.
"Engineering challenges rarely exist within national borders, and addressing them requires graduates who can bring together different perspectives, technical expertise and ways of thinking," Professor Gu said.
"This partnership brings together the strengths of two universities to provide students with an internationally enriched education, combining academic knowledge with practical learning and industry-relevant skills.
"We're delighted to welcome our first cohort of students and look forward to supporting them as they develop the capabilities to contribute to the future of engineering and technology."
Zihao Wei, Student Lead of DQSE's Innovation and Entrepreneurship Department majoring in Medical Engineering major, said:
“I was drawn to DQSE because it's run by two world-leading universities. My first month here has been busy but thrilling. No two days are the same, and I feel I've already grown and learnt so much. I really enjoy the English classes taught by QUT English teachers. The teachers at DQSE are so kind and help us improve in every way. I feel strongly supported by both universities.”
Zhouyan Yu, DQSE's cheerleader majoring in Computer and Software Systems, said:
“I chose DQSE because it combines tradition with strong resources of QUT and DUT, offering advanced programs and dual degrees from these two prestigious universities worldwide. The English teaching and integrated training mode at DQSE help me build professional skills together with a global vision. At this international school, I hope I can learn from different cultures and develop a positive world outlook. As one of DQSE's inaugural students, I want to help shape it, not just spend four years here.”
Professor Gu joined senior QUT representatives at the opening ceremony, including QUT College and Executive Director Ken Beutel.
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