Taylor's Design School (TDS) has recently signed an integrated double degree programme agreement with the University of Newcastle (UoN) in Australia. While many Malaysian institutions offer 1+2 and 2+1 pathways, this course of study offers an integrated academic programme structure rather than being a 'top-up'. Students will study in both universities and countries as part of an integrated programme, and then receive two degrees. This international double degree programme involves a three-step structure over the three years. Initially students enrol in the BA (Hons) in Graphic Communication Design at Taylor’s University. After this, students will move to Australia in Year 2 and study at the University of Newcastle. Finally, the students would then return to Kuala Lumpur in Year 3 and complete their final semester to fulfill their academic requirements at Taylor’s University. Students will get two degrees – one from Taylor’s University and one from UoN. Ken Tan, the Assoc. Dean Int'l (ADI) for TDS, has pointed out that unlike the more familiar overseas study pathways "the student is required to return to Taylor’s University to finish study for the remaining subjects before passing and graduation". This will help with employment opportunities in Malaysia. As he also noted, another important feature of this agreement is the intent for it to be reciprocal, and that "we are hoping to encourage UoN students to come our way and spend time in Malaysia". The Australian Federal Government has been very keen to encourage Australian students to study overseas, and recently launched its New Colombo Plan to support student mobility into Asia. For more information about TDS, please visit the official website.