Reviews and discusses objectives of the humanities and social science (HSS) component in undergraduate engineering programs, examining variations in HSS requirements among engineering disciplines. Also suggests some innovative approaches intended to resolve the conflict between the objectives and the current reality in engineering curricula. (JN)

Discusses recent approach at undergraduate engineering curriculum emphasizing bringing some engineering courses to freshman and sophomore levels. Summarizes several examples of the approach at various institutions throughout the country. (YP)

Presented is a blueprint for restructuring the first two years of the engineering curriculum. Four new concepts for the first two years are discussed: (1) the mathematical and scientific foundations of engineering, (2) fundamentals of engineering, (3) the engineering laboratory, and (4) the professional and personal enrichment program. (MVL)

Points out three areas that the American engineering community must consider related to global competition: technology, languages, and cultural understanding. Several American and foreign universities' efforts to include the topics in their programs are examined. (MVL)

Discusses the restructuring of the graduate program to accommodate emerging fields in engineering. Notes half of the graduate degrees Cornell grants each year are M.Eng. degrees. Offers 12 specialties: aerospace, agriculture, chemical, civil, electrical, mechanical and nuclear engineering; computer science, engineering physics; geological…

Discusses a two-year masters program; one year of lecture and practical training, and a second year on a supervised design task in an industry or development laboratory. Reviews the emphases of the curriculum. Describes the two paths to engineering careers in the Netherlands. (MVL)

Expresses the opinion that education has overemphasized the written word and needs to move back to the oral tradition. Warns that Americans are trained to use the left brain whereas much of engineering needs right brain processing. Gives perspectives to improve engineering education. (MVL)