Dr. Stephen Lu

Professor

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Biography

Professor Stephen Lu, David Packard Chair in Manufacturing at the University of Southern California, is a renowned researcher and educator in the field of engineering. He has a robust academic background, with a Master's and Doctoral degree in Mechanical Engineering from Carnegie-Mellon University and a Bachelor's degree from National Taiwan University. Lu's professional journey has been marked by significant contributions in design thinking, collaborative engineering, and educational innovation. He plays a pivotal role in the creation of educational programs such as the Product Development Engineering master's degree and the iPodia global education initiative. Lu has published over 300 technical papers and has delivered numerous keynote speeches at both national and international conferences. His expertise is recognized through editorial positions in prestigious journals and as the Chief Editor of the International Journal of Collaborative Engineering. Lu's influence extends globally through his visiting professorships and advisory roles in various institutions. He is a senior fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers and has received multiple awards for his contributions to engineering education and innovation.

Research Interests

Experience

Director, iPodia Program

2012-01-01 — Present

University of Southern California • Los Angeles, CA

Oversees the iPodia Program which aims to promote innovative global education.

Awards

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ASME Fellow

2012-01-01
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Senior Advisor to the President

2010-01-01
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Founding Dean

2008-01-01
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University Distinguished Professor

2007-01-01
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Advisory Professor

2005-01-01
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Elected Full Fellow

2003-01-01
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YangTze Distinguished Scholarship Award

2003-01-01
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International Technology Contribution Award

2001-01-01
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Honorary Professor

1998-01-01

Requirements for University of Southern California

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:90
IELTS
Listening
Required:6
Reading
Required:6
Writing
Required:6
Speaking
Required:6
Overall
Required:6.5
GRE General
Prerequisites
Bachelor's degree in Engineering, Math, or Hard Science
Application Checklist
  • Online application
  • Official transcripts
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume/CV
  • Letters of Recommendation (not required for MS CS, but allowed)
Specialization Notes

GRE is NOT required for Master's applicants for 2025-2026.