SUMMER STUDY ABROAD PROGRAM

GLOBAL ENGINEERING (THAILAND)


A 4-credit Global Field Engagement Program in Thailand

AT A GLANCE

  • Global Field Engagement Program
  • Disciplinary Track: Global Engineering
  • Study Abroad Destination: Thailand
  • 2026 Dates: June 6-26 (3 weeks)
  • Credit: 4 U.S. credit hours (~ 8 ECTS credits) for eligible university students
  • Eligibility: Any field and level of study

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

Design sustainable solutions in Thailand
This immersive 3‑week, 4‑credit Global Field Engagement program offers STEM students the opportunity to explore engineering innovation within Thailand’s diverse development context. Ideal for learners in fields like civil, environmental, mechanical engineering, or sustainability, the program emphasizes real-world impact through hands-on design, community collaboration, and intercultural reflection.

Participants work with Thai engineers, entrepreneurs, and community members to develop context-driven solutions across areas such as clean water, energy access, infrastructure, and public health. Through field immersion and guided reflection, students grow in technical skill, cultural intelligence, and leadership in global engineering.
Program Highlights
  • Field‑based prototyping: Engage in real-world engineering challenges in local communities
  • Interdisciplinary teamwork: Collaborate with students, local partners, and sector experts
  • Sustainability focus: Design solutions with long-term community and environmental impact
  • Professional development: Hone intercultural communication and leadership through guided reflection

ACADEMICS

Program Structure
A blend of intensive field engagement and academic rigor defines this short program:
Learning Outcomes
Participants will:
  • Apply engineering design principles - such as human-centered design and systems thinking - to real-world challenges
  • Collaborate across disciplines, cultures, and community context
  • Prototype and test sustainable engineering solutions grounded in local resources
  • Communicate technical solutions effectively to diverse stakeholders
  • Build a public-facing, professional digital portfolio showcasing competency and leadership
Further Details
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YOUR DESTINATION: THAILAND

The Land of Smiles is a dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. As one of Southeast Asia’s most influential economies, Thailand has experienced rapid urbanization and technological advancement while remaining deeply rooted in its cultural heritage. The country’s bustling cities and thriving industries contrast with its rural heartlands, where Buddhist traditions and community life still shape daily experiences. Yet, balancing economic growth with social and environmental sustainability remains a key challenge for the nation’s future.

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

Thailand is a captivating blend of ancient traditions, modern cities, and breathtaking natural beauty.

As part of the program, you will experience the country’s vibrant culture and welcoming communities. In Bangkok, explore the stunning Grand Palace, visit sacred temples like Wat Arun, and take a boat ride along the bustling Chao Phraya River. Wander through Chatuchak Market, one of the largest in the world, and enjoy authentic Thai street food.

Beyond the capital, Thailand offers spectacular landscapes and traditions.
Visit the floating markets, trek through hill tribe villages near Chiang Mai, and explore ancient ruins in Ayutthaya. Spend weekends on the pristine beaches of Phuket and Krabi, go island hopping in the Andaman Sea, or discover the jungle wilderness of Khao Sok National Park.

Thailand’s cuisine is world-famous, and you’ll have the chance to take Thai cooking classes and try iconic dishes like pad Thai, green curry, and mango sticky rice. You can also immerse yourself in Thai wellness traditions, from meditative temple stays to authentic Thai massages that blend relaxation with ancient healing techniques.
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HOUSING & MEALS

The program includes 3 weeks in Thailand. For this time, GEI Thailand offers different housing options that students can choose from, pending availability. These include:

  • Homestays: Typically single rooms, with shared bathroom, and access to a kitchen and living room
  • Serviced apartments: Single or shared double rooms, with shared bathroom, and access to a kitchen and living room
  • University residence halls at our local partner universities: Shared double rooms, with shared bathroom and no kitchen facilities
  • Simple guesthouses: Shared double rooms, with shared bathroom and no kitchen facilities


Homestay host families typically provide breakfast and dinner. Students in serviced apartments, university residence halls, or guesthouses are usually responsible for all meals outside of core course meals.

You can find additional information in the following blog post: Accommodation – What to expect.

DATES, FEES, AND SCHOLARSHIPS

Program Dates

Application Due Date

Fees

Summer 2026 (3 weeks): June 6-26

Summer 2026: April 1

Summer 2026: US $3,650 (3 weeks)

At GEI, we strongly believe in equal access to academic opportunities in study abroad. In order to help eliminate financial barriers, we offer a variety of merit scholarships, trailblazer scholarships, and opportunity scholarships and grants, ranging from $500 to full tuition awards. Each year, GEI is awarding several hundred thousand dollars in scholarships. You can find further information as well as additional resources for external funding opportunities in the following blog post: Scholarships & Grants.

INSTRUCTORS & COORDINATORS

Meet our core team

All of our instructors and coordinators are highly experienced and resourceful professionals.
Waleed Fatth, MPH
Program Director
Francoise Uzamukunda, MA
Academic Director, East Africa
Thuy Phan, MA
Academic Director, Vietnam
Chone Chaowai, MIDP
Academic Director, Thailand
Kari Cousins, MA/MSc
Academic Director, Southern Africa
Yvan Rubengebenge
Operations Manager, Rwanda
Eric Kingoina, DCS
Operations Manager, Kenya
Dang Huynh, BA
Operations, Vietnam
Denyse Iradukunda, BA
Operations, Rwanda
Sammy Davies Mochama, BSc
Operations, Kenya
Mabwe Gwamure, BSc
Operations, South Africa

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