<p>When one is considering different undergraduate engineering programs is defining one as being very "hands on" a good thing?</p>
<p>At first glance and on the surface it would seem so. It implies that the students are actively involved and are being exposed to practical things that can be applied in the real world. However, wouldn't the vast majority of schools define their programs in this way ?</p>
<p>How would an engineering program be defined if it was not so much "hands on" - - I think this would put it more toward the theory side - right ? Does the amount of research enter into the equation as well?</p>
<p>To help see why I'm asking, I have a daughter who plans to study engineering (probably chemical). Although she is a strong HS student in the math and sciences I don't see her doing much of anything around the house as "hands on". </p>
<p>If she doesn't really like getting her hands dirty does that mean she would probably do better going to a school that places more empasis on theory (or research, or whatever is more opposite of "hands on") ?</p>
<p>PolyTechnic University in New York has a very good co-op program that places students in some big name companies. This is great for the fact that by the time graduation comes around you have 2 years work experience with a big firm under your belt.</p>
<p>Correct me if I'm wrong, but as a ChemE student, Wouldn't your daughter be spending a ton of time in a lab? I wouldn't really consider that dirty.</p>
<p>I think "hands on" is a really good thing. Sometimes engineering students graduate with a lot of theory but little practice. Obviously the theory needs to be there but it's very helpful to have practical knowledge. For instance, a student who knows basic welding skills will know when his or her design cannot be manufactured in a welding process.</p>
<p>My school would be considered very hands-on, especially because the highest engineering degree is the bachelor's. A lot of undergrads do research and use the lab facilities, unlike some of the larger schools.</p>
<p>I've liked this, because I understand the concepts easier than memorizing their definition. But, there is only so much experience one can gain while obtaining their degree, a lot comes from their first job.</p>
<p>You probably want to stick to the hands-on learning, which doesn't necessarily have to be dirty, if you want to be an engineer. If you want to teach or do research, then higher degree are usually in order, with their own theoretical work.</p>
<p>I wouldn't consider lab work "dirty" really, but yes it can mess up your nails and stuff! I would direct your daughter into looking at what careers she could have with a Chem Eng degree, and if those interest her, rather than focusing on the degree. The degree is 4+ years, but a good career (one that you can enjoy) can last most of a lifetime.</p>