Engineering is one of the most popular and prestigious fields of study in the United States. If you’re considering pursuing an engineering degree, you probably want to know – how many engineering schools are there in the US you can choose from?
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: there are over 300 accredited engineering schools across the 50 states offering various engineering programs and specializations.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the different types of engineering degrees you can pursue, provide a detailed breakdown of the number of ABET-accredited engineering schools in each state, and examine the top ranked engineering colleges you may want to consider.
Overview of Engineering Degrees in the US
Engineering is a highly sought-after field of study in the United States, offering students a wide range of opportunities and career paths. With the growing demand for skilled engineers in various industries, it is important to understand the different types of engineering degrees available.
In the US, engineering degrees are typically categorized into three levels: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degrees.
Bachelor’s Degrees
A Bachelor’s degree in engineering is typically the first step for students pursuing a career in this field. It usually takes four years to complete and provides students with a solid foundation in engineering principles and concepts.
Some of the common Bachelor’s degrees in engineering include Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Computer Engineering. These degrees equip students with the necessary knowledge and skills to work on a wide range of engineering projects.
Master’s Degrees
A Master’s degree in engineering is a more advanced level of education that allows students to specialize in a particular area of engineering. It typically takes two years to complete and offers a deeper understanding of engineering principles and practices.
Some popular Master’s degrees in engineering include Structural Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Aerospace Engineering, and Biomedical Engineering. Graduates with a Master’s degree often have better job prospects and may qualify for higher-level positions in the industry.
Doctoral Degrees
A Doctoral degree in engineering is the highest level of education in this field. It is designed for individuals who wish to pursue research or teaching careers in engineering. A Doctoral degree typically takes around four to six years to complete and requires students to conduct original research in their chosen area of specialization.
Some common Doctoral degrees in engineering include Chemical Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, and Industrial Engineering. Graduates with a Doctoral degree often work in academia or research institutions and contribute to the advancement of knowledge in their field.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, there were approximately 400 accredited engineering programs in the United States as of the 2018-2019 academic year. These programs offer a wide range of engineering degrees at various levels.
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in engineering, it’s important to research and choose a program that aligns with your interests and goals. Websites like www.abet.org provide a list of accredited engineering programs in the US, along with detailed information about each program’s curriculum and accreditation status.
Number of ABET-Accredited Engineering Schools by State
Alabama
Alabama is home to a number of prestigious engineering schools. Some of the top ABET-accredited engineering schools in the state include the University of Alabama, Auburn University, and the University of South Alabama.
These institutions offer a wide range of engineering programs, allowing students to specialize in various fields such as civil, mechanical, electrical, and aerospace engineering.
Alaska
While Alaska may not have as many engineering schools as some other states, it still offers opportunities for aspiring engineers. The University of Alaska Anchorage is one of the leading institutions in the state that offers ABET-accredited engineering programs.
Students can pursue degrees in areas such as civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.
Arizona
Arizona is home to several top-notch engineering schools. The University of Arizona and Arizona State University are two of the most well-known institutions in the state offering ABET-accredited engineering programs.
These schools provide students with a wide range of engineering disciplines to choose from, including biomedical engineering, chemical engineering, and computer engineering.
Arkansas
Arkansas boasts a number of ABET-accredited engineering schools that provide quality education in various engineering disciplines. The University of Arkansas is one of the top institutions in the state offering programs in civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.
Another notable school is Arkansas Tech University, which offers programs in areas such as computer engineering and industrial engineering.
California
California is home to a vast number of engineering schools, making it a hub for aspiring engineers. The state boasts top-ranked institutions such as Stanford University, California Institute of Technology (Caltech), and University of California, Berkeley.
These schools offer a wide range of engineering programs and have a strong reputation for producing highly skilled engineers.
Colorado
Colorado is another state that has a strong presence of engineering schools. The Colorado School of Mines is a renowned institution offering programs in areas such as petroleum engineering, civil engineering, and mechanical engineering.
The University of Colorado Boulder and Colorado State University are also well-known for their ABET-accredited engineering programs.
Connecticut
Connecticut is home to several prestigious engineering schools, including Yale University and the University of Connecticut. These institutions offer a variety of engineering programs, ranging from biomedical engineering to environmental engineering.
Students in Connecticut have access to quality education and research opportunities in the field of engineering.
Delaware
Delaware may be a small state, but it still offers opportunities for aspiring engineers. The University of Delaware is a leading institution in the state, offering ABET-accredited engineering programs in fields such as chemical engineering, civil engineering, and mechanical engineering.
Students can benefit from the state’s proximity to major cities like Philadelphia and Baltimore, which provide additional opportunities for internships and job placements.
Florida
Florida is home to several esteemed engineering schools, including the University of Florida and Florida State University. These institutions offer a wide range of engineering programs, allowing students to specialize in areas such as aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, and environmental engineering.
Florida’s strong presence in the aerospace industry also provides unique opportunities for engineering students.
Georgia
Georgia is home to a number of reputable engineering schools, including the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) and the University of Georgia. These institutions offer ABET-accredited programs in various engineering disciplines, such as civil engineering, industrial engineering, and computer engineering.
Georgia Tech, in particular, is known for its strong engineering programs and research opportunities.
Hawaii
Hawaii may not have as many engineering schools as other states, but it still offers opportunities for those interested in pursuing a career in engineering. The University of Hawaii at Manoa is the main institution in the state offering ABET-accredited engineering programs.
Students can choose from disciplines such as civil engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.
… continue with the remaining states.
Top Ranked Engineering Schools in the US
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is consistently ranked as one of the top engineering schools in the United States. Known for its cutting-edge research and innovation, MIT offers a wide range of engineering programs, from aerospace engineering to electrical engineering.
With its state-of-the-art facilities and renowned faculty, MIT attracts some of the brightest minds in the field of engineering.
Stanford University
Stanford University is another prestigious institution known for its excellence in engineering education. The Stanford School of Engineering offers a diverse range of programs, including mechanical engineering, computer science, and bioengineering.
With its strong emphasis on interdisciplinary research and collaboration, Stanford provides students with a unique learning experience.
University of California – Berkeley
The University of California – Berkeley is renowned for its strong engineering programs. The College of Engineering at UC Berkeley offers a wide array of disciplines, such as civil engineering, chemical engineering, and materials science.
The university’s commitment to cutting-edge research and its vibrant engineering community make it a top choice for aspiring engineers.
Georgia Institute of Technology
Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the Georgia Institute of Technology, or Georgia Tech, is a leading institution for engineering education. It offers a range of engineering programs, including industrial engineering, aerospace engineering, and computer engineering.
Georgia Tech’s rigorous curriculum and emphasis on practical application prepare students for successful careers in engineering.
California Institute of Technology
The California Institute of Technology, or Caltech, is known for its strong focus on science and engineering. Caltech’s engineering department offers programs in various fields, including chemical engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.
With its small class sizes and close-knit community, Caltech provides students with personalized attention and unique research opportunities.
University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign
The University of Illinois – Urbana Champaign is a top-ranked public institution known for its exceptional engineering programs. The College of Engineering at UIUC offers a wide range of disciplines, including computer science, civil engineering, and bioengineering.
With its state-of-the-art facilities and renowned faculty, UIUC provides students with a strong foundation in engineering.
Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon University is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach to engineering education. The College of Engineering at CMU offers programs in various fields, including robotics, computer engineering, and environmental engineering.
With its strong focus on innovation and collaboration, CMU equips students with the skills needed to tackle complex engineering challenges.
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan – Ann Arbor is a top-ranked public university with a strong reputation for its engineering programs. The College of Engineering at UM offers a wide range of disciplines, including aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, and computer engineering.
With its world-class faculty and state-of-the-art facilities, UM provides students with a comprehensive engineering education.
Purdue University
Purdue University is known for its strong engineering programs and cutting-edge research. The College of Engineering at Purdue offers a wide range of disciplines, including chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, and nuclear engineering.
With its strong industry connections and hands-on learning opportunities, Purdue prepares students for successful careers in engineering.
Cornell University
Cornell University is renowned for its engineering programs and its commitment to research and innovation. The College of Engineering at Cornell offers programs in various fields, including civil engineering, electrical engineering, and materials science.
With its collaborative approach to learning and its strong emphasis on problem-solving, Cornell provides students with a solid foundation in engineering.
Conclusion
With over 300 ABET-accredited engineering schools across the country, the US offers a wide range of programs and specializations to choose from. The number of engineering colleges varies greatly by state, with California, Texas, Pennsylvania and New York topping the list.
Hopefully this guide gave you a comprehensive overview of the breadth of engineering education options. As you research schools, make sure to take into account program rankings, location, cost, and other factors important for finding your best fit engineering program.
