Hands-On Learning in Engineering at Lehigh
Explore real-world experiences that turn ideas into action
At Lehigh University's P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science, students don’t just study engineering—they live it. From day one, you’ll take on projects, collaborate with faculty and peers, and discover where your curiosity can lead. Our hands-on learning approach helps you build skills, confidence, and career readiness through meaningful experiential learning opportunities on campus and around the world.
Why hands-on learning matters
Lehigh engineers learn by doing. Through labs, design studios, makerspaces, and fieldwork, you’ll apply classroom concepts to real challenges—developing technical and teamwork skills that employers value most.
- Early exposure to professional, research, and industry settings
- Mentorship from expert faculty and graduate researchers
- Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and leadership
- Hands-on experiences that enhance career readiness
Faculty-guided research opportunities
Explore projects that make a difference
As part of an R1 research university, Lehigh gives undergraduates direct access to advanced labs, equipment, and mentorship. You can join faculty-led research in fields such as sustainability, robotics, materials science, data analytics, and healthcare technology.
Learn more about the Rossin College Undergraduate Research Symposium
Internships and co-op experiences
Build your résumé through real engineering work
Lehigh helps students secure engineering internships and co-ops that connect coursework to industry experience. The individualized co-op program blends academic study with full-time, résumé-building work—often leading to job offers.
- Paid co-ops with top employers in technology, energy, healthcare, and manufacturing
- Career-focused advising and networking through Lehigh’s alumni network
- Hands-on industry projects that accelerate professional growth
Explore Lehigh's Center for Career & Professional Development
Global and cross-cultural experiences
Take your engineering skills and ideas worldwide
Through global programs like the Iacocca International Internship Program and the Global Social Impact Fellowship, Lehigh students apply their engineering knowledge across more than 60 countries. You’ll gain cultural insight, problem-solving ability, and a global mindset that sets you apart.
Impact Fellowships and multiyear projects
Design, collaborate, and make an impact
Lehigh's Impact Fellowships combine research, entrepreneurship, and service learning. Students collaborate across disciplines to tackle complex challenges—creating sustainable solutions and innovations that change lives. Opportunities include:
- Global Social Impact Fellowship
- Lehigh Valley Social Impact Fellowship
- Mountaintop Summer Experience
Engineering teams, clubs, and service learning
Join a community that builds and leads
Lehigh engineers connect through student organizations that combine creativity, collaboration, and service. Whether you’re competing in design challenges or building solutions for global communities, you’ll gain leadership experience that lasts a lifetime.
- Engineers Without Borders
- Society of Women Engineers
- Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers
- Lehigh Racing, Aerospace Club, and more
Labs, makerspaces, and innovative facilities
A campus built for exploration and creativity
Lehigh's engineering labs and makerspaces give you the freedom to prototype, experiment, and innovate. Our facilities support practical learning, interdisciplinary teamwork, and personal growth—preparing you for engineering careers of the future.
Find Your Path in Engineering
Choose your adventure. Shape your future.
Every Lehigh engineer's journey is unique. Whether you're conducting research, traveling abroad, interning with industry leaders, or leading a student team, you'll discover new passions and possibilities every step of the way.
Follow #LehighEngineers for a firsthand look at student projects, innovation, and life in Lehigh's collaborative engineering community.