FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS

  1. When can I apply to EGL?
  2. What is involved in the application process?
  3. I am applying to the program and need two recommendation forms. Who should I ask to fill them out?
  4. If I am admitted to EGL, am I automatically admitted to the Master's program I choose?
  5. Can I change my Master's track?
  6. What are the benefits of the EGL program versus other undergraduate/graduate degree programs such as the Sequential Graduate and Undergraduate Studies Program (SGUS)?
  7. What is Topics in Leadership (TiL)?
  8. What is the Tauber Institute for Global Operations?
  9. How long does the program take to complete?
  10. Can I be dismissed from EGL?
  11. Can I study abroad?
  12. I have AP/Transfer credit for foreign language. How does this fit into the EGL requirements?
  13. Can I use my native language to fulfill the language requirement?
  14. Can I take culture core or business courses pass/fail?
  15. What if I find a new business or cultural core course that is not on the approved list?

PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS:

1. When can I apply to EGL?

The admissions cycle takes place annually each fall and applications are due in October.  Students may apply to EGL after they have (1) completed 1-2 semesters of CoE courses and (2) declared their engineering major. Students must have a 3.6 cumulative GPA in order to be eligible for admission.

2. What is involved in the application process?

The EGL application requires an application form, transcript from Wolverine Access, resume, short essay, two recommendation forms (one of which must be from a faculty member), and a recent photo. Students who complete the application will be contacted shortly after the application due date to schedule a short (15 minute) interview with the admissions committee. Admissions decisions are usually announced prior to Thanksgiving break.

3. I am applying to the program and need two recommendation forms. Who should I ask to fill them out?

One recommendation form must come from a UM faculty member. Most students ask a professor that they know relatively well, such as their ENGR 100 professor. If you do not feel close with any professors, try going to the office hours of a professor in whose class you did well. Explain the program requirements; most professors will be happy to help. The second recommendation does not need to be from a faculty member, many students ask former managers or GSIs.

4. If I am admitted to EGL, am I automatically admitted to the Master's program I choose?
No, students must officially apply to their desired Master's program. Students should plan their schedule carefully to insure they have completed the required prerequisites before applying to their Master's program.

5. Can I change my Master's track?
Yes. Students should inform Stacie Edington of a change in Master's track. The Admissions Committee requests this information on the application in order to better guide students in planning courses to fulfill the undergraduate degree and EGL requirements, as well as to satisfy the prerequisite courses for applying to the Master's portion of the program.

6. What are the benefits of the EGL program versus other undergraduate/graduate degree programs such as the Sequential Graduate and Undergraduate Studies Program (SGUS)?

One of the main goals of the EGL program is to produce well-rounded engineers, and students in the program have the opportunity to complete foreign language, culture, and business requirements. During graduate school, EGL members have the ability to take MBA-level business classes offered through the Ross School of Business. While the SGUS program may lead to an earlier graduation, it does not require the same breadth of classes required for EGL. Students in EGL are also members of the Student Society, which hosts social, networking, and industry events for the members. Participation in the Tauber Institute for Global Operations is another great benefit of EGL not guaranteed by other programs.

7. What is Topics in Leadership (TiL)?

TiL is a series of modules devoted to professional growth and leadership. EGL students will complete three years of TiL coursework throughout their EGL career.

TiL1 is a formal leadership course for incoming EGL students. The two main objectives of TiL1 are to (1) jumpstart the leadership and professional development of new EGL members and (2) provide opportunities for networking among EGL students. The course meets weekly during winter semester for a total of eight sessions, each devoted to a different leadership topic. Examples of past topics include professional development, entrepreneurship, and cross-cultural working environments.

TiL2 and TiL3 were developed to build upon the skills established in TiL1.

8. What is the Tauber Institute for Global Operations?

Students are admitted to the Tauber Institute for Global Operations when they are admitted to EGL. The Tauber Institute is a joint venture between the Ross School of Business and the College of Engineering, and students in the program complete coursework in preparation for a synthesis project which most students complete the summer between their senior and Master's program year. Engineering students work together with Ross MBA students in small groups on the projects. In the past these have been high-level internships focusing on manufacturing and operations which in some cases have saved companies millions of dollars. Upon completing the summer project, the teams present at Spotlight!, where judges from industry evaluate the team's work and scholarship money is awarded to the best projects. For more information visit the Tauber Institute's website at: http://www.tauber.umich.edu/

EGL BASICS AND COURSEWORK:

9. How long does the program take to complete?

The program takes most students approximately 5 years to complete. The timing varies depending on the combination of majors chosen.

10. Can I be dismissed from EGL?

Students must maintain a 3.4 cumulative GPA to remain in the EGL program.

11. Can I study abroad?

Yes!! Most EGL students participate in a study, work, or volunteer abroad experience. If you are considering an overseas experience be sure to plan ahead. To start planning your experience come into the International Programs in Engineering Office (245 Chrysler) and speak with an IPE advisor (walk-in hours are posted on their website: http://www.engin.umich.edu/ipe/advising/index.html).

12. I have AP/Transfer credit for foreign language. How does this fit into the EGL requirements?

EGL requires two semesters 2nd year foreign language proficiency. If you have second year AP credit or have taken the placement exam and placed out of second year foreign language, then your foreign language requirement is complete. Any subsequent foreign language credit beyond 2nd year and taken in a university setting can be counted towards the cultural core.

13. Can I use my native language to fulfill the language requirement?
No, students must choose a language that has no direct relationship to their native language. Thus, a student who speaks Cantonese cannot choose Mandarin to fulfill the language requirement. The student could, however, choose Japanese and use East Asia as the cultural core.

14. Can I take culture core or business courses pass/fail?

Yes, you may take courses pass/fail as long as (1) you are not planning on using them towards the International Minor for Engineers, as courses must be taken for a grade, or (2) have reached the CoE's pass/fail credit limit of 14 credits. If you are counting a business course towards your major's technical electives requirement, be sure to check with your department if it it possible to take the course pass/fail.

15. What if I find a new business or cultural core course that is not on the approved list?
Great! Send an email to eglhonors@umich.edu with the course number, description, and the syllabus (if available) to have it approved.