La Roche University Establishes Strategic Academic Partnership with Hebei International Studies University

PITTSBURGH, April 21, 2026 – La Roche University is pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Hebei International Studies University (HISU) in China, marking an important step in expanding the University’s global engagement and strengthening its presence in East Asia.

This partnership establishes a framework for collaboration grounded in academic excellence, cross-cultural exchange, and long-term institutional engagement. Both institutions will leverage their respective strengths to advance cooperation across four key areas: joint talent development, faculty and staff exchange, collaborative research, and cultural exchange.

Through this agreement, La Roche University and HISU will pursue a range of initiatives designed to create meaningful international learning opportunities. These include the development of articulation and dual-degree pathways, short-term academic and language programs, faculty mobility, and joint academic activities such as seminars, workshops, and research collaborations. The partnership also aims to foster cross-cultural competencies and global perspectives, preparing students for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

Hebei International Studies University, located in Hebei Province, China, is recognized for its strengths in foreign language education, international studies, and applied learning. The university has developed a distinctive academic model centered on multilingual proficiency, cross-cultural communication, and global engagement, offering programs across languages, business, education, and interdisciplinary fields.

HISU maintains an extensive network of international partnerships and emphasizes practice-oriented education that integrates academic study with real-world application. Its commitment to cultivating globally minded graduates aligns closely with La Roche University’s focus on experiential learning and career readiness.

“La Roche University is committed to building structured, sustainable global partnerships that expand access to international education and create meaningful academic pathways for students,” said Dr. Christina Clark, President of La Roche University. “Our collaboration with Hebei International Studies University reflects a shared vision of preparing globally minded graduates through academic excellence, cultural exchange, and applied learning.”

This agreement further strengthens La Roche University’s global partnership network and supports its strategic focus on expanding international education opportunities. By developing structured academic pathways and collaborative programs, both institutions aim to enhance student mobility, promote intercultural understanding, and build sustainable, long-term international enrollment pipelines.

About La Roche University: An independent liberal arts university in the North Hills of Pittsburgh, La Roche University offers 71 undergraduate programs of study, eight master’s degrees and two doctoral degrees, with particular strengths in education, business, criminal justice, cybersecurity and forensics, psychology, nursing, and health and medical sciences as well as interior architecture & design and graphic design. This residential university provides a vibrant campus community for women and men enjoying multiple student organizations and an exciting NCAA Div. III athletics program. Founded by the Sisters of Divine Providence in 1963, La Roche University embraces its Catholic heritage while welcoming people of all faiths and backgrounds. With a legacy of social justice and a commitment to international exchange, La Roche University educates students to be lifelong learners and achievers in an increasingly diverse and global society.

###