International Training in Engineering Education

Abstract: International faculty development in highly industrialized nations remains a primary yet often unattainable goal for many Saudi Arabia higher education institutions due to prohibitive costs. This paper examines a cost-effective alternative through a formal linkage between the College of Engineering at Qassim University and the Sulaiman Al Rajhi University established via a Memorandum of Understanding in January 2019. Through this partnership, ten faculty members have participated in short-term training at MSOE, while MSOE faculty have reciprocated by conducting multiple seminars at Qassim University. Unlike traditional, high-cost overseas programs, this linkage focuses on a "minimal cost, high quality" model of instruction. Findings indicate that the program has significantly enhanced the teaching competencies and professional personalities of the participants. This case study demonstrates that strategic international partnerships can provide sustainable and impactful faculty development opportunities even for institutions with limited financial resources.