Understanding University of Idaho’s MESA Program
Earn an electrical engineering degree with global experience and semiconductor expertise
July 21, 2026
The Microchip Engineering and Security Alliance (MESA) is University of Idaho’s four-year global Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering pathway, that combines international study, hands-on engineering education and industry-focused learning to prepare graduates for careers in the rapidly growing semiconductor industry.
The demand for semiconductors continues to grow around the world, creating opportunities for engineers with technical expertise, global experience and practical problem-solving skills. MESA prepares you to meet that demand.
As a MESA student, you’ll complete your first two years at Hiroshima University in Japan before finishing at University of Idaho, gaining hands-on semiconductor experience, global engineering knowledge and a degree that opens doors locally, nationally and internationally.
Through the MESA program, you’ll:
- Build practical engineering skills through laboratory work, design projects and applied learning.
- Gain a global perspective by studying and collaborating with students and faculty in Japan and the United States.
- Learn from internationally recognized faculty and connect with industry leaders shaping the future of semiconductor technology.
- Prepare for high-demand careers in electrical engineering, microelectronics, semiconductor manufacturing and advanced manufacturing.
Go global and graduate career-ready.
How does the MESA program work?
As a MESA student, your experience is designed to build both global perspective and technical expertise:
- Years 1–2: Study in English at U of I's partner institution, Hiroshima University (Hiroshima, Japan), a globally recognized research university with a strong reputation in electrical engineering. Build your technical expertise while gaining the international perspective that employers value.
- Years 3–4: Transition to University of Idaho (USA) where course work will involve experiential learning, world-class faculty and access to advanced lab facilities.
- Outcome: Graduate with a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (B.S.E.E.) from University of Idaho with global experience and semiconductor-focused training to help propel your career forward.
Who is MESA for?
MESA is a strong fit if you’re:
- A first-time freshman who wants a bachelor’s in electrical engineering with built-in international experience (transfer students are not eligible for this program).
- Interested in a career with semiconductors, microchips, fabrication, hardware security, renewable energy or advanced electronics.
- Motivated by hands-on learning that allows you to gain in-demand skills.
- Looking for a program that helps you stand out.
In short, MESA is for future electrical engineers who want to have worldwide experience preparing them for the workforce.
Why choose the MESA program?
Go global
MESA is designed for students who want an internationally focused electrical engineering education. By studying in both Japan and the United States, you'll graduate with the technical expertise, global perspective and cross-cultural experience needed to succeed in the semiconductor industry.
Through this international pathway, you'll:
- Study alongside students from around the world while experiencing different cultures, perspectives and approaches to electrical engineering.
- Develop the communication, collaboration and cross-cultural skills that global employers value.
- Follow a clear four-year degree pathway with dedicated advising and support throughout your academic journey, including assistance with admissions, visas and transitioning between campuses through University of Idaho’s International Programs Office (IPO).
- Experience life at two internationally respected universities. At Hiroshima University, you'll have access to modern libraries, recreation facilities, dining options and a vibrant student community while living in one of Japan's most historically significant and welcoming cities. At University of Idaho, you'll complete your degree in a supportive campus community with opportunities to participate in engineering organizations, undergraduate research, career development and hands-on learning. Together, these experiences prepare you to succeed in an increasingly global engineering profession.
Get high-demand semiconductor skills with real lab access
Develop the technical expertise employers are seeking by learning in advanced semiconductor and electronics laboratories in both Japan and the United States. Throughout the MESA program, you'll gain practical experience using industry-relevant equipment while applying engineering concepts through hands-on coursework and laboratory training.
At Hiroshima University, you'll learn in world-class teaching and research laboratories collaborating with internationally recognized faculty and classmates from around the globe. At University of Idaho, you'll continue that experience in advanced engineering and semiconductor facilities, including semiconductor manufacturing labs, clean-room fabrication spaces and other state-of-the-art research environments.
Build connections with industry leaders
MESA connects you to meaningful, hands-on opportunities backed by real industry investment.
U of I has a longstanding relationship with Micron, including a Micron Technology Foundation $1million gift to fund an endowed professorship in microelectronics. You’ll also benefit from active research funding and collaboration with Idaho National Laboratory (INL) and the U.S. Department of Defense.
Prepare for a wide range of career opportunities
MESA is designed around a simple reality: demand for microchips and semiconductors is rising globally, and employers need engineers who can apply their skills from day one. With a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (B.S.E.E.) from University of Idaho, you graduate with both specialized microelectronics training and a broad engineering foundation. This program prepares you for careers across microelectronics as well as broader electrical engineering fields like power, controls, communications and embedded systems.
Access a global education at a competitive cost
MESA makes earning an international electrical engineering degree more accessible through a competitive, all-inclusive tuition model. Program participants pay a fixed tuition rate designed to provide predictable costs while studying at both Hiroshima University and University of Idaho. This fixed tuition rate is available to all MESA students, regardless of nationality.
For students from the United States, additional financial support may be available. Idaho residents may qualify for university scholarships and state-supported programs, including the Idaho LAUNCH scholarship, helping make a global engineering education even more affordable. Students are also encouraged to explore external scholarship opportunities available in their home country or region.
View the full MESA cost breakdown to learn more about tuition, fees and estimated expenses throughout the program.
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