ES 277 Humanitarian Product Design (HPD) is a two-course sequence (spring and fall)  for engineering undergrads. The course is open to all engineering majors and also other majors such as design, social work, and other science and humanities disciplines. Students work in small interdisciplinary teams to address needs of people in crisis such as refugees, displaced people, and communities in times of emergency. Projects are mentored by a senior officer at the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) who provides guidance throughout the semester. Over the course of two semesters, teams work to research, conduct experiments, and create prototypes while learning about principles of design, project management, and product development. Students have the option (not required) to join a two-week trip to Kenya in May to collaborate with our Kenya Red Cross partners. We will visit refugee camps, speak with residents and aid organizations, and work with our international team to understand needs and to advance the projects. A two-semester commitment and registration in the course is required to participate in the Kenya trip. 

Go HERE to apply.

“HPD is the coolest class I have taken at UT! The projects are such global efforts where you get to work with people all around the world. I got to manage a team of amazing engineers that I know I can count on. I loved getting more project experience outside of my regular degree plan. A must-take class if you have room!”