Implementing International Engineering Programs

Many engineering colleges are augmenting traditional rigorous technical training with education related to: foreign languages, study of other cultures and internship or living experiences abroad. These programs are often referred to as International Engineering Programs. A research study conducted indicates that at least 23 universities in the U.S. and Canada have significant international engineering programs (Saikali and Jain, 1996). The study provides a synopsis of the key features of each program surveyed and comparisons among the programs (See Table 1). To focus on the objectives and goals of establishing an international engineering program, it is important to understand the need in a global context.