The University of Delaware and Xiamen University (XMU) have signed an agreement to establish a dual degree program in oceanography. The program allows students from either university to earn a doctoral degree from both institutions. Signing the agreement during a recent meeting between officials of the two schools were UD President Patrick Harker, XMU President Zhu Chongshi, UD College of Earth, Ocean, and Environment Dean Nancy Targett, and XMU College of Oceanography and Environmental Science Dean Minhan Dai. The degree program builds on an already strong relationship between the universities. In 2007, they signed an agreement to enhance research partnerships, and in 2008 they formed the Joint Institute for Coastal Research and Management.