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Session Number 3557

Internationalizing IE: A Unique Minnesota - Sweden Case David A. Wyrick, P.E. Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering University of Minnesota Duluth

Abstract

Engineers are working in a global setting as never before. The University of Minnesota Duluth (UMD) has a unique exchange program with the Luleå University of Technology (LUT) in Sweden that has proven beneficial with undergraduates, graduate students, and faculty members at both institutions. The Industrial Engineering program at UMD and the Manufacturing and Materials Engineering program at LUT have exchanged faculty and students since 1997 in what has become one model of institutionalizing the curriculum within the University of Minnesota system. Courses in Sweden apply toward the BSIE degree requirements in Minnesota, and vice versa. This paper will describe the evolution of this exchange program, the benefits to students and faculty, and the challenges and opportunities it presents, including accreditation considerations. A review of other types of study abroad experiences for engineers and recommendations will assist others in exploring how to internationalize their IE programs.

Introduction

A variety of factors are driving the internationalization of the industrial engineering profession. Free trade agreements make it easier for foreign companies to sell their goods and products in the United States, just as it makes it easier for American companies to sell their goods and products in foreign markets. Manufacturing facilities are increasingly relocated overseas to take advantage of lower production costs, access to raw materials, less stringent regulations, or taxation considerations.

IE students should have an opportunity to understand how their professional careers may lead them to many different assignments around the globe. In the case of the University of Minnesota Duluth, many students come from rural settings and have not traveled extensively, especially overseas, and a good appreciation of international opportunities and challenges can be difficult to develop. This situation is probably similar at many other universities.

There are many different types of study abroad opportunities for college students. Due to the rigors of engineering degrees, many engineering students do not consider studying abroad as they believe it would delay their graduation, not apply toward their degree, and would cost too much. The BSIE program at UMD has a track in which students can take their senior year

Proceedings of the 2004 American Society for Engineering Education Annual Conference & Exposition Copyright © 2004, American Society for Engineering Education

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Wyrick, D. (2004, June), Internationalizing Ie: A Unique Minnesota Sweden Case Paper presented at 2004 Annual Conference, Salt Lake City, Utah. 10.18260/1-2--13470