The University of St. Thomas

Study Abroad

Study Abroad for Engineering

The UST School of Engineering offers undergraduate students the opportunity to study Mechanical and Electrical Engineering abroad.

Iceland

ENGR 381 Thermodynamics will offer an opportunity to travel to Iceland in Spring 2008. During spring break, the course will travel to Iceland for 10 days. The trip is an interdisciplinary effort between the geology and engineering departments. Students of thermodynamics and oceanography will explore Iceland’s use of its unique geological setting to provide much of its energy needs in a clean and sustainable way. The group will visit Reykjavik University and the University of Iceland for lectures on the impact of climate change on glaciers, carbon sequestration and binding with basalt, hydropower from glacial rivers, geothermal energy and the issues Iceland faces with the management of power in their fishing fleet.

See Description,  Itinerary and Application for more information. Contact Dr. Camille George to discuss this further.

Rome

Every other year, ENGR 298 - Roman Structure and Art travels to Rome during J-Term.  Most recently, 20 students went to Italy in January, 2007.

International Service Learning

ENGR 480/481 Senior Design offers students opportunities for international service learning. Over the past several years, student groups have contributed in Mali (Africa), and St. Vincent (Caribbean). See also http://courseweb.stthomas.edu/cmgeorge/

Spain and England

In addition, students may study Engineering abroad for a semester in Spain or England.

Why study Engineering abroad?

  • To deepen your understanding of engineering in a global context
  • To understand the relationship between culture and science
  • To expand your cross cultural communication, foreign language, and problem solving skills as you interact with faculty and students from around the world
  • To broaden your academic horizons
  • To develop intellectually, emotionally, culturally and socially

Yes, but.....

  • Where can I study?
    St. Thomas School of Engineering has identified two programs that work well for its students: the University of Sheffield in Sheffield, England and St. Louis University in Madrid, Spain. Other sites are possible, but these two are recommended.
  • Can I take my Engineering course(s) in English?
    Yes. At the University of Sheffield all courses are taught in English. At St. Louis University, Engineering courses are taught in English while other courses are taught in either Spanish or English. You will also take a Spanish course.
  • Can I afford it?
    YES! The cost of studying abroad is within the reach of most UST students. Financial aid applies to semester study abroad, and students not currently receiving financial aid may be eligible for loans. There are also special scholarships for studying abroad.

    So... What do I do next?

    • Begin planning right away. It is never too early to start planning. Stop by the International Education Center (IEC), sign up for a "First Step" session (for details, see www.stthomas.edu/studyabroad) and use their library to begin researching destinations.
    • Set some goals. There is not one best suited for all Engineering majors. You need to determine which one fits you. Prioritize your goals. Consider your long term academic, professional, and career goals.
    • Think about what you want to learn from (and what you can contribute to) the program, college, and country where you want to be.
    • Prepare academically. You may need to take prerequisites or plan for classes upon your return.
    • Start a budget.
    • To help with above, talk to:
      -- Dr. Greg Mowry, gsmowry@stthomas.edu, in Engineering
      -- Study Abroad Advisor in International Education Center (IEC)