Some would argue that real learning takes place only when students experience firsthand the requirements of real engineering practice and research—and must apply and test what they've learned in the classroom.

The Clark School is highly regarded as an innovator in developing such experiences for its students, placing them in advanced labs, problem-oriented living/learning environments and internships with employers large and small. Here is a small sampling of our programs:

The Gemstone Program
Gemstone is a unique, multidisciplinary, four-year research program for selected undergraduate honors students of all majors. Under the guidance of faculty mentors and Gemstone staff, teams of students design, direct and conduct significant research exploring the interdependence of science and technology with society.

Hinman CEOs
The Hinman Campus Entrepreneurship Opportunities (CEOs) Program is an award-winning living-learning program offered to undergraduate students interested in entrepreneurial ventures.

Research Opportunities
The Clark School offers extensive research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students, with major research programs in (among many others): bioengineering; communications and networking; systems research; embedded computing; rotorcraft technology; launch and reentry vehicles; space robotics; intelligent transportation systems; advanced materials; nanotechnology; electronic packaging; and energy systems.

Engineering Co-op & Career Services
What better way to experience real engineering practice than to participate in an internship or co-op opportunity? Each year in the Clark School of Engineering, hundreds of students gain invaluable professional-level work experience with employers in private industry and the federal government. In addition, students build mentoring relationships, integrate classroom theory and practical application, confirm career choices, and earn a competitive salary. Our office is dedicated to helping you find a position through one-on-one advising, weekly workshops, online job listings and interviews, employer seminars, networking receptions, career fairs and much more.

College Park Scholars
College Park Scholars is a community of twelve special living-learning programs for academically talented first- and second-year students. Each program focuses on a specific theme—such as Science, Technology and Society, Science and Global Change, or Science, Discovery and the Universe—and offers specially designed courses and experiences that relate to its theme. Students take classes together and live together in selected residence halls.

The Quality Enhancement Systems and Teams (QUEST) Program
QUEST is a quality management program with a dynamic learning environment. This innovative, three-year program invites high-achieving students to progress in team-based courses led by an interdisciplinary faculty. QUEST is a collaborative effort between the Robert H. Smith School of Business and the Clark School, and admits students from those schools as well as the College of Computer, Mathematical and Physical Sciences.

International Opportunities
Employers seek engineers who are aware of global business practices and possess cross-cultural communication skills and language fluency. Students can prepare to work in the global marketplace by participating in one of the Clark School's study abroad programs. Students engage in experiences that develop the knowledge, skills and abilities employers seek.