Global Experiences
Overview
Engineers of the 21st century need to be multifaceted and global to address the ever-evolving and complex challenges of the world. At Northeastern’s College of Engineering, a variety of global experience opportunities—from short- to long-term—are available to students to expand their knowledge and help them develop as innovative and global next-generation engineering leaders.
Student Benefits
- Explore new cultures and places
- Gain new perspectives
- Learn about international issues important to the engineering field
- Gain global work experience
- Fulfill academic requirements
Students can pursue a six-month global co-op in over a dozen countries. New industry and research opportunities for engineering students have been added in such countries as Germany, Singapore, Panama, Tanzania, Italy. Please discuss a global co-op with your engineering co-op coordinator as you formulate your comprehensive co-op program.
The Dialogue of Civilizations Program is a series of “global student exchanges” between students at Northeastern University and students around the world. Several engineering dialogues are offered—from climate change in India to design and innovation in England. Each Dialogue of Civilizations program has its own eligibility requirements.
Students can choose to study abroad at a number of different universities throughout the world through the Northeastern-sponsored study abroad program. This experience can be for either a semester or could even be a short-term, faculty-led program. Informational programs are offered to students in the Study Abroad Office in 401 Richards Hall weekly. Past students have studied engineering at such schools as Queens University of Belfast, Ireland, and Swinburne University in Melbourne Australia where a specific curriculum plan has been developed for engineering students.
Engineering students who wish to pursue study abroad should contact their academic advisor.
The Engineering Without Borders student organization aids communities in developing countries by using engineering solutions to address basic human needs, such as the need for potable water—all the while supplying student members with educational, transformative experiences. Students have traveled to Panama, Honduras, Uganda, and other places.
Global News
Professor and Students Journey to Panama Canal to Study Fluid Mechanics
MIE Associate Professor Carlos Hidrovo and eleven mechanical engineering students ventured on a month-long Dialogue of Civilizations trip to the Panama Canal to study fluid mechanics.
Dialogue of the Decade: The Climate of Chile and Argentina in May-June 2025
In May-June 2025, Northeastern University’s “Dialogue of Civilizations” program on “Climate Change in Emerging Economies” celebrated its tenth year by taking students to Chile and Argentina. Led by CEE Distinguished Professor Auroop Ganguly, alongside program assistants and local guides, the month-long experience immersed fifteen undergraduate students in climate science, adaptation engineering, and policy discussions through classroom sessions, role-playing, and field trips to diverse locations like the Andes, Patagonia, and urban centers.
Student’s Co-op Journey Culminates in Assembling World’s Largest 3D Printers
Through three impactful co-ops, Fernando Escobar, E’26, mechanical engineering and history, engaged with advanced technologies, from surgical robots and hydrogen energy to assisting with the assembly of the world’s largest 3D construction printers.
Dialogue of Civilizations in Milan on Heritage, Design, Innovation
Tucker Marion, associate professor of entrepreneurship and innovation group, jointly appointed in mechanical and industrial engineering, led a Dialogue of Civilizations in Milan, exploring the connection between heritage, design, and innovation.