Penn State offers semester abroad in Sweden for engineering students

Fancy a semester abroad in Jönköping, Sweden?

Penn State University’s College of Engineering now has a new study abroad program for students to complete a semester at Jönköping University.

Sophomores and juniors in these courses – studying architectural engineering, computer engineering, computer science, engineering science, industrial engineering and mechanical engineering – can take up several courses such as EMCH 212, ME 340 and MATSE 259. Other majors and electives are available too.

Sara Kuhlman, coordinator of international experiences, Office of Global Engineering Engagement siad: “Jönköping University is a great option for so many students who want to study abroad for a semester.”

“Academically, this is a great institution. The classrooms and lab space have all the necessary tools you’ll need to advance as an engineer. The university is also dedicated to making sure that your college experience goes beyond the classroom. The student union organizes different activities, including day and weekend trips, cultural days, movie nights, parties and more!”

Those interested to join the spring 2019 program should take note of these deadlines: First priority review is May 1, second priority review is July 15, and the final deadline to apply is Sept 15. Applications must be submitted via the Penn State Education Abroad.

The course will be taught in English in a classroom with a mix of nationalities – Swedish, American and other international students. Housing will be provided in either dormitories or apartments.

Kuhlman recalls her own semester spent in Jönköping: “I was able to experience a whole new culture, learn in a new way and saw classroom concepts play out in real time. I remember sitting by Lake Vättern studying for an exam, soaking in the warm Swedish sun at 9 p.m. Meeting with friends for a Fika (Swedish for ‘coffee and conversation’) was an everyday occurrence and traveling to other countries for the weekend was the norm.”

Kevin Houser, professor of architectural engineering was the brain behind this new proposal: “It was study abroad that led me to getting engaged in the global community rather than just being embedded in my local community.

“While study abroad has immediate tangible benefits, like differentiating a resume and opening doors for entry-level employment, the real benefits run much deeper. Study abroad impels students to be more adaptable, better communicators, and better citizens — those are the outcomes that matter most.”

There are 53 universities and university colleges in Sweden. Tuition is free for EU students, although fees have recently been introduced for non-EU students.

At Jönköping University, there are 2,000 international students out of its cohort of around 11,000 students. It is one of the three Swedish private, non-profit institutions of higher education with the right to award doctorates.

Organised as a non-profit corporate group, the Jönköping University Foundation is the parent organisation while the following schools are its six wholly owned subsidiaries: the School of Health and Welfare, the School of Education and Communication, Jönköping International Business School, the School of Engineering, University Services and Jönköping University Enterprise.

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