Louisiana State University recently announced the launch of a new Digital Twin Design and Production Certificate, positioning the institution at the forefront of one of the fastest-growing technologies shaping modern industry and digital infrastructure. Developed through a collaboration between academic leaders and private-sector experts, the program was designed to prepare professionals for the expanding use of digital twins across construction, manufacturing, energy, and other sectors critical to Louisiana’s economy. More information about the university’s engineering and digital infrastructure initiatives can be found through the LSU College of Engineering, while details about online delivery are available via this news release from LSU.

Digital twins are virtual, continuously updated models that mirror physical assets, systems, or processes in real time. These tools allow organizations to simulate conditions, predict outcomes, identify inefficiencies, and address safety concerns before costly failures occur. From monitoring bridge integrity to optimizing factory operations or improving supply chain performance, digital twins are increasingly central to how complex systems are managed. Industry analysts frequently cite their ability to reduce downtime and operational costs while improving decision-making, particularly in infrastructure-heavy regions like Louisiana.

Registration for the certificate program is now open, and LSU officials noted that it is the first digital twin certificate in the nation co-developed by both academic and industry experts. The program consists of seven fully online courses that combine case studies, guided tutorials, and hands-on learning activities. Participants learn how digital twins are designed, what technologies support them, and how they are deployed to track and improve real-world systems. Coursework also includes practice using widely adopted software platforms and instruction on calculating deployment costs and return on investment. Additional details about certificate offerings are available through LSU Continuing Education.

Beyond technical development, the certificate places a strong emphasis on understanding the broader implications of digital twin technology. Participants explore topics such as data ethics, intellectual property considerations, cybersecurity concerns, and legal risks associated with modeling real-world systems. Program leaders emphasized that these non-technical dimensions are essential for professionals who will be responsible not only for building digital twins but also for managing them responsibly within organizations. This interdisciplinary approach aligns with broader conversations in higher education about responsible innovation and workforce readiness, as outlined by the U.S. Department of Education.

The digital infrastructure certificate was created through a partnership between the LSU College of Engineering, LSU Online, the Baton Rouge–based consultancy DigiTwin Global, and the global engineering software firm Bentley Systems. According to LSU Engineering Dean Vicki Colvin, understanding when digital twins are worth the investment—and how to use them effectively—is becoming a baseline skill for future engineers and business leaders. She noted that demand for these competencies is growing rapidly in construction, manufacturing, energy, agribusiness, and healthcare, all of which play major roles in Louisiana’s economy.

Development of the program was led by Marwa Hassan, associate dean of academic affairs in the College of Engineering, and Kappie Mumphrey, vice president of LSU Online. The development team included LSU engineers, computer scientists, digital designers, and online learning specialists, as well as industry software professionals. Contributors also included faculty from the E.J. Ourso College of Business and leadership from Forte and Tablada, a Baton Rouge engineering firm whose executives co-founded DigiTwin Global. Additional context on LSU’s business programs is available through the Flores MBA Program.

Program developers emphasized practicality as a defining feature of the certificate. Several courses include direct interaction with professional-grade digital twin software, including platforms developed by Bentley Systems. Industry leaders involved in the program noted that Louisiana’s extensive industrial and coastal infrastructure makes the state an ideal environment for applying digital twin technology at scale. Looking ahead, LSU is exploring the creation of a full bachelor’s degree in digital twin technology, while DigiTwin Global is planning a regional symposium on the topic in February—signaling continued momentum for this emerging field.

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