Engineering/International Studies Dual Degree

Students earn a B.S. degree in chemical, civil, electrical and computer, mechanical engineering, or integrative engineering with focus in bioengineering, environment & energy, or robotics, and an A.B. degree in international studies that combines foreign language, government, and international affairs.

Students choose a language of concentration (Lafayette offers advanced study in Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Russian, and Spanish. Other languages must be discussed with the program chair.) and take courses that develop an in-depth cultural understanding of countries or regions where the language is spoken. Full immersion in a foreign culture is a cornerstone of the program, with students either studying abroad (most often during the spring semester of sophomore year) or working abroad (most often during the summer).

There are a few similar programs at other colleges, however, our program is designed to be completed in at most four years and a summer, with careful advising.

International Studies component for Engineering/International Studies Dual Degree

The International Studies major requires 8-12 credits. Students deemed to have advanced language proficiency without needing a course must take an additional elective to get to 8 credits.

Learn more about the dual degree requirements.

After Graduation

Engineers with proficiency in a second (or third!) language and an understanding of foreign cultures are well prepared for engineering and technical positions overseas, or with American companies that have international branches. Students typically secure jobs or continue graduate study in their engineering field.