One of the questions I hear often from prospective students is:
“Can engineering students study abroad?”
The short answer? Absolutely. Keep reading if you don’t believe me, or click below to see and hear from engineering students who took the leap!
Years ago, engineering programs were known for having very structured course plans, and it could be difficult to fit in experiences outside the classroom. Today, that’s no longer the case. At USC Viterbi, students have more flexibility than ever to personalize their academic experience while still staying on track toward graduation.
In fact, there are a variety of opportunities for Viterbi students to gain international experience. Some students spend a semester abroad through one of USC’s traditional study abroad programs, while others participate in shorter programs designed specifically for engineering students. Options include programs like Viterbi Maymester and Fall Lead, international research opportunities, internships, and even global classroom experiences through iPodia, where students collaborate with peers from universities around the world.
Why does this matter? Because engineering is a global profession. The challenges engineers solve today don’t stop at national borders, and neither should the learning experiences that prepare students for those careers. Studying abroad can help students gain new perspectives, experience different cultures, and better understand how technology impacts communities around the world.
So if you’re a high school student dreaming about both engineering and exploring the world, know that you don’t have to choose one or the other. At USC Viterbi, it’s possible to do both.
The real question isn’t whether you can study abroad.
It’s where do you want to go?
And if you made it this far in the blog, check out some of these awesome stories from our Viterbi students.




















