International Studies and Engineering

Globalization is increasing the number of attractive job opportunities in foreign countries for engineers with proficiency in a second language and an understanding of foreign cultures. This program enables highly capable and motivated students to earn a B.S. degree in chemical, civil, electrical and computer, or mechanical engineering, and an additional A.B. degree in international studies that combines foreign language, literature, government, history, law, economics, and art.

In this program, students acquire near-native proficiency in a chosen language (typically Spanish, French, or German) and develop an in-depth knowledge and understanding of the culture of a country or region where the language is spoken. They take international politics and international history courses, as well as other courses in the humanities and social sciences that relate to those particular countries or regions. Students are encouraged to study abroad and/or participate in Lafayette courses abroad during interim sessions. The Lafayette program based in Bremen, Germany, is designed for second-semester sophomore engineering students so they may study abroad with only minimal changes in the sequence of required engineering courses.

The senior capstone experience is total immersion in a foreign culture after the language study has been completed. Students either study, complete an internship, or work abroad in a country where their chosen language is spoken, typically during the summer before the senior year. This allows students to apply and expand their knowledge of engineering practice as well as a foreign language and culture.

More on International Students in Engineering.

Leonard A. Van Gulick
Matthew Baird Professor and Head of International Studies and Engineering
(610) 330-5445
vangulil@lafayette.edu