<p>Son was fortunate to be accepted to IBE Honors. There are only about 50 people in each class, and Lehigh claims it is their most marketable degree. What's the real scoop? Is it as great as they say? As difficult? Are IBE kids considered elite? Any recent grads have stories of success?</p>
<p>S has other great opportunities, so we just want to get some real feedback before deciding.</p>
<p>Congratulations on getting accepted into IBE!</p>
<p>What’s the real scoop:
IBE is a dual degree program that graduates students with a business degree and an engineering degree. The goal is to provide students with the ability to develop a product (engineering degree) as well as show students the steps to take in bringing the product to the market (business degree). Students get to do this twice: in their second semester during a class called the freshman workshop and in their sixth and seventh semesters during their capstone project.</p>
<p>Is it as great as they say:
Absolutely.</p>
<p>As difficult:
The curriculum is very heavy but can be lightened if you come in with AP credits. As an example, if you come in with 15 AP credits, you will finish the engineering degree and the business degree in 4.5 years taking an average of 15 credits a semester. 15 credits a semester is the average for a typical student at Lehigh. Without AP credits, it will take you 5 years to complete both degrees.</p>
<p>Are IBE kids considered elite:
Within Lehigh, yes. In the eyes of employers, it depends. Doing bad in IBE gives you no advantage over someone else with just an engineering degree or just a business degree. Doing well gives you a big advantage. If you interview for a job in just business or just engineering, employers will ask why you have the other degree and why you think it is relevant.</p>
<p>Any recent grads have stories of success:
IBE posts where graduates go on its website. Placement for the class of 2011 is here:</p>
<p>[IBE</a> - Meet our Students 2011](<a href=“http://www.lehigh.edu/~inibep/2011.html]IBE”>http://www.lehigh.edu/~inibep/2011.html)</p>
<p>On average, one third of graduates are hired by financial firms, one third by engineering firms, and one third by consulting firms. A few go to graduate school.</p>
<p>Lastly, the Lehigh alumni network in general is VERY strong. When I applied, Lehigh was number 8 nationally in alumni giving. No matter what major or program you choose, if you prove you’re capable, alumni will go to GREAT lengths to help.</p>
<p>Hope this helps. Congratulations again!</p>
<p>Thanks a lot for your reply, brownandwhite! XD R u a current student? Class of which?</p>
<p>Hey Chardo,</p>
<p>Just curious, did your S choose Lehigh IBE eventually?</p>