The Adventist University of the Philippines (AUP) and the Southwestern Philippine Union Conference (SwPUC) have formally entered into a Memorandum of Agreement to launch an offsite graduate education program aimed at expanding academic opportunities for SwPUC employees on November 17, 2025.

The ceremonial signing was done at SWPUC Convention Center, Cagayan de Oro City with Dr. Leo Dorado, the chair of Graduate Education Studies and SwPUC President, Pr. Jerry C. Patalinghug leading the ceremony. The partnership introduces an innovative offsite learning model for the Master of Arts in Education (MAEd) and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs, set to begin in the second semester of the 2025–2026 academic year.

Under the agreement, AUP will serve as the main educational partner responsible for administering the academic programs, providing qualified faculty, overseeing student performance, and awarding degrees upon completion. SwPUC, through the Education Department, in turn, will handle student recruitment, provide facilities and logistical support for onsite and online classes, and manage the collection and remittance of program fees.

Both institutions outlined detailed financial structures for MAEd and PhD students, including tuition, offsite learning fees, library fees, and other academic requirements such as comprehensive exams, fieldwork, and graduation costs. The programs require a minimum of 15 students for MAEd and 12 students for PhD.

The partnership is a shared commitment to advancing the professional development of educators and leaders within the Adventist community through accessible and flexible graduate studies.

SwPUC Communication Dept.