Jennifer Case

Jennifer Case is a Professor and Department Head of the Department of Engineering Education at Virginia Tech’s College of Engineering. Previously, she served as a Professor and Director of the Centre for Research in Engineering Education at the University of Cape Town (UCT), South Africa, where she retains an honorary appointment. Her research focuses on improving engineering education, curriculum reform, and methodologies in higher education studies. She holds a Ph.D. in Education from Monash University and has authored over 50 journal articles and two monographs. Case is a co-editor-in-chief of the journal Higher Education and a leading figure in Engineering Education Research (EER), recognized for her contributions to curriculum design, student learning outcomes, and sociological perspectives in education.

Her educational background includes degrees from Stellenbosch University (B.S. Chemistry & Physics), the University of Leeds (M.Ed. Science Education), and UCT (M.S. Chemical Engineering). She has pioneered post-apartheid engineering education reforms in South Africa and held a Mandela Mellon fellowship at Harvard University (2011). Notable awards include the NRF President’s Award (2006) and election to the Academy of Sciences of South Africa (2009).

Her research interests emphasize global comparative studies, curriculum design, and the societal impact of engineering education. She has explored how sociological theories can enhance understanding of student learning and led initiatives to institutionalize EER in countries like South Africa and New Zealand. Case continues to teach at Virginia Tech and advises doctoral students, contributing to a vibrant department with a growing international reputation in EER.

Her recent work includes frameworks for secondary data analysis (SHARE) and studies on engineering accreditation, student experiences, and workforce development. She actively engages in discussions about equity in education and the role of engineering curricula in addressing societal needs.