Analysis of Construction Study Abroad Programs Viewed from a Global Perspective

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to evaluate differences and similarities of construction programs across various countries in order to encourage international cooperation of construction training and study abroad programs. The information illustrated in this paper was collected through a survey that was administered to construction programs from 11 different countries. The survey was divided into the following four categories: Program Structure, Curriculum, Industry Involvement and General Program. The study identified challenges and opportunities for students in construction programs to study abroad, with specific reference to financial funding at institutions, funding support from industry, lack of understanding around international articulation platforms, wide variation across internship requirements, and the importance of industry recognized certifications. The study demonstrated that 64% of the surveyed programs receive industry support and that all the surveyed programs are engaged and familiar with articulation agreements. In addition, besides programs in Australia and Portugal, internships are a requirement in all other countries surveyed. Also, among all surveyed countries, only Malaysia and South Africa require students to obtain industry certificates during the course of the program.