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Which universities are among the best for engineering?
I want to know the best universities for engineering as well as how competitive it must be to get into these universities.
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13 answers
Updated
Rich’s Answer
The most important thing is that the school’s engineering program is ABET-Accredited. As long as it is l, you will be fine getting a job as an engineer.
What is more important is to pick a school that fits you. With 5-year graduation rates below 50% in many universities, it is important to find a school you will stay at. For example, do you like living in a city or smaller town? Want to attend a large school or small? Live in cold or warm weather? Stay close to home or go away? Do you want lower cost or are you ok with big student loans Be honest with yourself, attending a university because it has a great reputation does you no good if you don’t enjoy being there and leave. Good luck
What is more important is to pick a school that fits you. With 5-year graduation rates below 50% in many universities, it is important to find a school you will stay at. For example, do you like living in a city or smaller town? Want to attend a large school or small? Live in cold or warm weather? Stay close to home or go away? Do you want lower cost or are you ok with big student loans Be honest with yourself, attending a university because it has a great reputation does you no good if you don’t enjoy being there and leave. Good luck
Updated
David C’s Answer
Having not attended college myself, I can only offer this opinion. My idea of the "best" universities come with a higher price tag as a result. I am sure some are worth the extra $$ such as MIT, however I would suggest you not be so overly convinced you need to go to a college some group labels as the best. Some have to charge more for their collegiate sports programs. I don't know about you, but I would not be going to college because it has a great and well known sports program.
Here is a link to a great article. After the link is a quote from that article.
https://collegerealitycheck.com/college-for-engineering/
"In general, it doesn’t matter much where one goes to college for an engineering degree. What matters more is what job an engineering degree holder gets after college. The first job will serve as some kind of a barometer for subsequent jobs as an engineer climbs his or her way up the career ladder."
Just don't be deceived.
Designer Dave
Here is a link to a great article. After the link is a quote from that article.
https://collegerealitycheck.com/college-for-engineering/
"In general, it doesn’t matter much where one goes to college for an engineering degree. What matters more is what job an engineering degree holder gets after college. The first job will serve as some kind of a barometer for subsequent jobs as an engineer climbs his or her way up the career ladder."
Just don't be deceived.
Designer Dave
Updated
Sharon’s Answer
I am not an engineer so I can only offer lived experience. My son's cousin received his bachelor's degree in construction engineering. He started working for a builder doing odd jobs and learning along the way. He has been very successful. He did not get an internship and I'm not sure what Virginia Tech required, but the construction job that he received and worked at during the summers was very valuable. Good luck!
Updated
Vamshee’s Answer
This is more comprehensive details to your question ...starting with How To become an Engineer.
Complete 4 years of Maths in high school (Algebra/Calculus/Statistics etc)
Get a good GPA/SAT Score will help you get an admission in good universities
After graduating from high school, one will need to earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering from a school accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology.
Depends on your career goals and what area of engineering you'd like to practice, one can pursue Master Degree/Doctoral Programs
Some skills/important qualities that would help to be successful engineer
Analytical thinking
Problem Solving
Communication Skills
Working in teams
Creativity and imagination
Good Communication skills etc
Participating in science clubs, learning computer coding, joining Lego or Robotics Club, Playing Chess all will help to acquire skills that would be helpful to become an engineer or get into admission to top engineering college.
There are different engineering disciplines to choose from, some are more popular than others.Research about each one , compare and shortlist few which is of your interest.
Aerospace Engineering
Agricultural Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Software Engineering
Construction Management Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Engineering Management
Engineering Technology
Environmental Engineering
Fire Protection Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Materials Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Molecular Engineering
Nuclear Engineering
Petroleum Engineering
Technology Management
Telecommunications Engineering
I suggested my son to choose Computer Science Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Telcommmunication Enngineering etc.He end up choosing Graphics Information Technology at ASU, he is in his 2nd semester and likes it.
What college is best for a student?
Reflect on what's important, where you want to be, and who you want to become. With those answers, you can figure out what types of colleges will allow you to reach your goals.
Here are some aspects to consider:
- Location
-Distance from your home
- Majors and classes offered
-Housing Options
- Extracurricular activities
-Affordability
-Campus Atmosphere
-Size (Class/Campus)
Once you have a list of schools, it's time to do research to discover right college.
To learn more about the colleges you're considering, check out college guidebooks and the colleges' websites.
Write down your questions, and get answers by:
Talking to your school counselor or teachers.
Checking out colleges’ student blogs, if available.
Contacting college admissions officials.
Asking admissions officials to recommend current students or recent graduates to talk to.
Visiting college campuses,
There's no shortage of excellent schools to prepare you for your future. Once you compare the colleges that interest you, you can decide based on which suits you more, which affordable and which is overall best for you etc.
Click on the below link to find 2023 Best Engineering Schools - US News Rankings
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/eng-rankings
There are very good colleges in CA for engineering and you can save $ by getting into Local College with decent ranking.
Hope this helps! Wish you all good luck in your endeavors.
Complete 4 years of Maths in high school (Algebra/Calculus/Statistics etc)
Get a good GPA/SAT Score will help you get an admission in good universities
After graduating from high school, one will need to earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering from a school accredited by the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology.
Depends on your career goals and what area of engineering you'd like to practice, one can pursue Master Degree/Doctoral Programs
Some skills/important qualities that would help to be successful engineer
Analytical thinking
Problem Solving
Communication Skills
Working in teams
Creativity and imagination
Good Communication skills etc
Participating in science clubs, learning computer coding, joining Lego or Robotics Club, Playing Chess all will help to acquire skills that would be helpful to become an engineer or get into admission to top engineering college.
There are different engineering disciplines to choose from, some are more popular than others.Research about each one , compare and shortlist few which is of your interest.
Aerospace Engineering
Agricultural Engineering
Biomedical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Computer Software Engineering
Construction Management Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Engineering Management
Engineering Technology
Environmental Engineering
Fire Protection Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Materials Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Molecular Engineering
Nuclear Engineering
Petroleum Engineering
Technology Management
Telecommunications Engineering
I suggested my son to choose Computer Science Engineering, Electrical Engineering, or Telcommmunication Enngineering etc.He end up choosing Graphics Information Technology at ASU, he is in his 2nd semester and likes it.
What college is best for a student?
Reflect on what's important, where you want to be, and who you want to become. With those answers, you can figure out what types of colleges will allow you to reach your goals.
Here are some aspects to consider:
- Location
-Distance from your home
- Majors and classes offered
-Housing Options
- Extracurricular activities
-Affordability
-Campus Atmosphere
-Size (Class/Campus)
Once you have a list of schools, it's time to do research to discover right college.
To learn more about the colleges you're considering, check out college guidebooks and the colleges' websites.
Write down your questions, and get answers by:
Talking to your school counselor or teachers.
Checking out colleges’ student blogs, if available.
Contacting college admissions officials.
Asking admissions officials to recommend current students or recent graduates to talk to.
Visiting college campuses,
There's no shortage of excellent schools to prepare you for your future. Once you compare the colleges that interest you, you can decide based on which suits you more, which affordable and which is overall best for you etc.
Click on the below link to find 2023 Best Engineering Schools - US News Rankings
https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools/top-engineering-schools/eng-rankings
There are very good colleges in CA for engineering and you can save $ by getting into Local College with decent ranking.
Hope this helps! Wish you all good luck in your endeavors.
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
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Answers
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hi Ivan,
Top Engineering Universities to Consider:
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT):
Famed for its engineering curriculum, MIT offers a broad spectrum of programs such as mechanical, electrical, aerospace, and chemical engineering. The institution stands out for its state-of-the-art research facilities and progressive approach to engineering studies.
2. Stanford University:
Known for its School of Engineering, Stanford excels in numerous engineering specialties including computer science, bioengineering, and civil engineering. The institution encourages a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship within its engineering courses.
3. University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley):
UC Berkeley's College of Engineering ranks among the world's best, particularly recognized for its robust programs in fields like environmental engineering, materials science, and structural engineering. The institution has a proud legacy of cultivating influential engineers and researchers.
4. California Institute of Technology (Caltech):
Caltech provides intensive engineering programs centered on scientific exploration and technological progress. The institution's small class sizes and close academic community offer students personalized guidance and chances for hands-on research.
5. Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech):
Georgia Tech is acclaimed for its strong focus on practical application and industry collaborations in engineering studies. The institution provides specialized programs in fields like industrial engineering, aerospace engineering, and computer engineering.
Challenges of Gaining Admission to Top Engineering Universities:
Securing a spot in the best engineering universities can be quite challenging due to their esteemed reputation and limited availability. Key factors that add to this competitiveness include:
Academic Performance: Top institutions seek candidates with exceptional academic achievements, particularly in math and science courses related to the chosen engineering field.
Standardized Test Scores: High scores on standardized tests like the SAT or ACT are typically necessary for entry into competitive engineering courses.
Extracurricular Activities: Showcasing a passion for engineering through extracurricular pursuits such as robotics clubs, internships, or research projects can enhance an applicant's profile.
Recommendation Letters: Powerful recommendation letters from teachers or mentors who can vouch for the student's potential in engineering are vital.
Personal Statements: A persuasive personal statement that underlines the applicant's motivations, objectives, and unique engineering-related experiences can sway the admissions process.
In summary, budding engineers should aim for academic brilliance, participate in relevant extracurricular activities, and submit a comprehensive application to boost their chances of admission into top engineering universities.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
U.S. News & World Report
QS World University Rankings
Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings
These sources offer detailed rankings and assessments of universities globally based on various factors such as academic reputation, faculty expertise, research productivity, and student selectivity in engineering education.
Take Care,
JC.
Top Engineering Universities to Consider:
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT):
Famed for its engineering curriculum, MIT offers a broad spectrum of programs such as mechanical, electrical, aerospace, and chemical engineering. The institution stands out for its state-of-the-art research facilities and progressive approach to engineering studies.
2. Stanford University:
Known for its School of Engineering, Stanford excels in numerous engineering specialties including computer science, bioengineering, and civil engineering. The institution encourages a spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship within its engineering courses.
3. University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley):
UC Berkeley's College of Engineering ranks among the world's best, particularly recognized for its robust programs in fields like environmental engineering, materials science, and structural engineering. The institution has a proud legacy of cultivating influential engineers and researchers.
4. California Institute of Technology (Caltech):
Caltech provides intensive engineering programs centered on scientific exploration and technological progress. The institution's small class sizes and close academic community offer students personalized guidance and chances for hands-on research.
5. Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech):
Georgia Tech is acclaimed for its strong focus on practical application and industry collaborations in engineering studies. The institution provides specialized programs in fields like industrial engineering, aerospace engineering, and computer engineering.
Challenges of Gaining Admission to Top Engineering Universities:
Securing a spot in the best engineering universities can be quite challenging due to their esteemed reputation and limited availability. Key factors that add to this competitiveness include:
Academic Performance: Top institutions seek candidates with exceptional academic achievements, particularly in math and science courses related to the chosen engineering field.
Standardized Test Scores: High scores on standardized tests like the SAT or ACT are typically necessary for entry into competitive engineering courses.
Extracurricular Activities: Showcasing a passion for engineering through extracurricular pursuits such as robotics clubs, internships, or research projects can enhance an applicant's profile.
Recommendation Letters: Powerful recommendation letters from teachers or mentors who can vouch for the student's potential in engineering are vital.
Personal Statements: A persuasive personal statement that underlines the applicant's motivations, objectives, and unique engineering-related experiences can sway the admissions process.
In summary, budding engineers should aim for academic brilliance, participate in relevant extracurricular activities, and submit a comprehensive application to boost their chances of admission into top engineering universities.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used:
U.S. News & World Report
QS World University Rankings
Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings
These sources offer detailed rankings and assessments of universities globally based on various factors such as academic reputation, faculty expertise, research productivity, and student selectivity in engineering education.
Take Care,
JC.
Updated
Joseph’s Answer
https://money.com/best-engineering-colleges/
This will provide you with that information BUT ask out the internship programs.
https://ripplematch.com/career-advice/companies-with-exceptional-engineering-internships-0efd1aac/
This will provide you with that information BUT ask out the internship programs.
https://ripplematch.com/career-advice/companies-with-exceptional-engineering-internships-0efd1aac/
Updated
Vikram’s Answer
Hi - Several agencies rank and rate the colleges. Here is one link
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/engineering
Make sure you apply these ranking to what you are looking for. Academics is just one part of the equation. You also have to evaluate other options - social/living arrangements, costs (scholarship opportunities?), distance from your family (if that is important), sports opportunity, and also career and internship opportunities.
https://www.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/engineering
Make sure you apply these ranking to what you are looking for. Academics is just one part of the equation. You also have to evaluate other options - social/living arrangements, costs (scholarship opportunities?), distance from your family (if that is important), sports opportunity, and also career and internship opportunities.
Updated
Bassel’s Answer
MIT and Texas A&M.
Updated
Michelle’s Answer
There are a ton of great responses and links to lists. I will also add Cooper Union, which is incredible Engineering school located in Manhattan and provides a half-tuition scholarship to every undergrad student.
Updated
Brian’s Answer
As far as public universities in California go, I can strongly recommend Cal-Poly Slo. I've worked with several highly competent engineers who graduated from there. I personally recommend staying away from UC's or other "research" universities, as they prioritize academic research rather than instruction.
Updated
Sanjiv’s Answer
A couple additional things to think about that I probably didn't give enough thought when I was applying for schools:
Research career placement, internship, research opportunities at your prospective university. Going to a top tier university can open some doors when submitting a resume, but if there's already a relationship built between a company/field/profession and the university, that will give you a leg up.
Try and understand your learning style. There are good big schools and good small schools. If you are the type that needs more individualized learning, or higher interaction with professors, a smaller school might be a better fit. If you're okay with 100+ lectures, then a larger university might be better. Also quarter system vs semester system can impact your learning style.
A good research university does not necessarily translate to professors that are motivated to teach. Some professors are at the school primarily for their research and the teaching comes secondarily. This is not an indictment on them, but something to think about and research.
Research career placement, internship, research opportunities at your prospective university. Going to a top tier university can open some doors when submitting a resume, but if there's already a relationship built between a company/field/profession and the university, that will give you a leg up.
Try and understand your learning style. There are good big schools and good small schools. If you are the type that needs more individualized learning, or higher interaction with professors, a smaller school might be a better fit. If you're okay with 100+ lectures, then a larger university might be better. Also quarter system vs semester system can impact your learning style.
A good research university does not necessarily translate to professors that are motivated to teach. Some professors are at the school primarily for their research and the teaching comes secondarily. This is not an indictment on them, but something to think about and research.
Updated
Kris’s Answer
Some colleges are highly competitive, not just for engineering. You can google colleges and look at their acceptance rate to see. Carnegie Mellon and Purdue have reputations as being excellent engineering schools and can be difficult to get in without the proper grades, SAT scores, and letters of recommendation.
If you want to become an engineer, it only matters that it is ABET accredited and that the college does have connections to businesses that hire. Choosing a college in your own state can save you a lot of money. Currently, in 2023, the United States has a huge shortage of engineering students. There are way more jobs than there are engineers. So ultimately its an excellent career. It is worth the effort. A good engineer - an excellent problem solver - will always be in high demand. The math, physics and chemistry can be difficult in the freshman and sophomore years. Some of those classes are meant to weed out the students that won't do well as an engineer. Take heart. If you can make it through the first two years, the last two or three years of school are much easier and more detailed toward your specific degree.
If you want to become an engineer, it only matters that it is ABET accredited and that the college does have connections to businesses that hire. Choosing a college in your own state can save you a lot of money. Currently, in 2023, the United States has a huge shortage of engineering students. There are way more jobs than there are engineers. So ultimately its an excellent career. It is worth the effort. A good engineer - an excellent problem solver - will always be in high demand. The math, physics and chemistry can be difficult in the freshman and sophomore years. Some of those classes are meant to weed out the students that won't do well as an engineer. Take heart. If you can make it through the first two years, the last two or three years of school are much easier and more detailed toward your specific degree.
Updated
Elyse H.’s Answer
Ivan, you’ve gotten great information here, so I’ll just add on a bit. My son is in college for engineering right now, and it’s been much more challenging to get an internship than we expected. And if it’s hard getting an unpaid internship, I can only imagine it’ll be hard to get a job. So, I would encourage you to check with career services to see what they offer, the breadth of companies that come to the school to recruit or for job fairs, and how active the alumni is (that’s often how people find work in competitive markets).
Take care and good luck!
Take care and good luck!