Engineering is one of the most popular and prestigious majors that students pursue at top universities. If you’re considering an engineering degree from an Ivy League school, you’ll have access to world-class faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and a powerful alumni network.
If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer to your question: The top Ivy League schools for engineering are Princeton, Cornell, Columbia, University of Pennsylvania, Harvard, Yale, Brown, and Dartmouth.
In this comprehensive guide, we will overview the top engineering programs at each Ivy League university, including rankings, admission requirements, notable alumni, and more.
Princeton University
Princeton University is widely known for its exceptional engineering program, making it one of the top Ivy League schools for engineering. The university offers a range of engineering disciplines, including aerospace, chemical, civil, electrical, mechanical, and more.
Engineering School and Rankings
The School of Engineering and Applied Science at Princeton University is renowned for its rigorous curriculum and cutting-edge research. It consistently ranks among the top engineering schools in the nation, with a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation.
The faculty at Princeton are experts in their respective fields and are dedicated to providing students with a world-class education.
According to the U.S. News & World Report, Princeton University’s engineering program is currently ranked #4 in the nation. This ranking takes into account factors such as academic reputation, faculty resources, research activity, and student selectivity.
It is a testament to the university’s commitment to excellence in engineering education.
Admissions Requirements
Admission to Princeton University’s engineering program is highly competitive. Prospective students are expected to have a strong academic background, with a focus on math and science courses. They should also demonstrate a passion for engineering and a desire to make a positive impact in the field.
Princeton University looks for well-rounded individuals who have excelled not only academically but also in extracurricular activities and leadership roles. Strong letters of recommendation, a compelling personal statement, and impressive standardized test scores are all important components of a successful application.
Notable Alumni
Princeton University has produced numerous notable alumni who have made significant contributions to the field of engineering. One such alumnus is Elon Musk, the CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, Inc. Musk’s innovative ideas and groundbreaking work in the aerospace and automotive industries have revolutionized the way we think about transportation.
Another notable alumnus is Arun Netravali, who is often referred to as the “father of digital video.” Netravali’s research and inventions have played a pivotal role in the development of video compression and digital television technology.
These are just a few examples of the many successful engineers who have graduated from Princeton University. The university’s strong network of alumni provides students with valuable connections and opportunities for mentorship in their chosen field.
Cornell University
Cornell University, located in Ithaca, New York, is one of the top Ivy League schools for engineering. With a long-standing reputation for excellence in engineering education, Cornell offers a wide range of programs and opportunities for students interested in pursuing a career in this field.
Engineering School and Rankings
The College of Engineering at Cornell University is consistently ranked among the best in the nation. With 14 distinct departments and over 30 research centers and institutes, the College provides a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to engineering education.
The school offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs, allowing students to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals.
According to the U.S. News and World Report, Cornell’s College of Engineering is ranked #10 in the nation for undergraduate engineering programs. The school also boasts strong rankings in various engineering disciplines, including civil engineering, mechanical engineering, and electrical engineering.
Admissions Requirements
Admission to Cornell’s College of Engineering is highly competitive. Prospective students are expected to have a strong academic background, particularly in math and science. SAT or ACT scores, high school transcripts, and recommendation letters are all part of the application process.
Additionally, Cornell values extracurricular involvement and leadership experiences, which can enhance an applicant’s chances of admission.
It is important to note that while academic achievements are vital, Cornell also considers an applicant’s personal qualities, including their passion for engineering, problem-solving skills, and ability to work in a team.
The university seeks well-rounded individuals who can thrive both in the classroom and in real-world engineering scenarios.
Notable Alumni
Cornell University has produced numerous successful engineers who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. Some notable alumni include:
- Robert F. Smith: The richest African-American, Smith is the founder of Vista Equity Partners, a private equity firm focused on software and technology.
- Janet Reno: The first female Attorney General of the United States, Reno graduated from Cornell with a degree in chemistry before pursuing a career in law.
- Bill Nye: Known as “The Science Guy,” Nye graduated from Cornell with a degree in mechanical engineering and went on to become a popular science communicator.
These alumni, among many others, exemplify the impact that a degree from Cornell’s College of Engineering can have on one’s career and the world.
For more information about Cornell University’s College of Engineering, visit their official website: https://www.engineering.cornell.edu/.
Columbia University
Columbia University, located in New York City, is one of the top Ivy League schools for engineering. It offers a wide range of engineering programs and is known for its excellent faculty, cutting-edge research, and state-of-the-art facilities.
Engineering School and Rankings
Columbia’s Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science is highly regarded in the field of engineering. It offers undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs in various disciplines, including civil engineering, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, and biomedical engineering.
The school consistently ranks among the top engineering programs in the country, with its biomedical engineering program being particularly renowned.
According to the U.S. News and World Report, Columbia University’s engineering program is ranked #17 in the nation for 2021. This ranking takes into account factors such as faculty expertise, research output, and student satisfaction.
Admissions Requirements
Columbia University has a competitive admissions process for its engineering programs. Prospective students are required to submit their high school transcripts, standardized test scores (SAT or ACT), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
The university also considers extracurricular activities, leadership roles, and community involvement when evaluating applicants.
It is important to note that admission to Columbia’s engineering programs is highly selective, with an acceptance rate of around 6%. Prospective students should aim for a strong academic record and exceptional test scores to increase their chances of being admitted.
Notable Alumni
Columbia University’s engineering program has produced numerous notable alumni who have made significant contributions to the field. One such example is Ursula Burns, the former CEO of Xerox Corporation.
Burns, who earned her master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Columbia, is known for her leadership and innovation in the technology industry.
Another notable alumna is Padmasree Warrior, the former Chief Technology Officer of Cisco Systems. Warrior, who earned her bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Columbia, is recognized as one of the most influential women in technology.
These are just a few examples of the successful engineers who have graduated from Columbia University’s esteemed engineering program. The university’s strong network and reputation in the industry provide graduates with excellent opportunities for career advancement.
University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania, located in Philadelphia, is one of the top Ivy League schools for engineering. It offers a wide range of engineering programs that are consistently ranked among the best in the nation.
The university’s School of Engineering and Applied Science has a strong reputation for its rigorous curriculum and cutting-edge research.
Engineering School and Rankings
The University of Pennsylvania’s School of Engineering and Applied Science offers a variety of engineering disciplines, including biomedical, chemical, electrical, and mechanical engineering. The school is known for its interdisciplinary approach, encouraging collaboration across different fields of study.
In the U.S. News & World Report’s latest rankings, the University of Pennsylvania’s engineering programs were ranked among the top 20 in the country.
Admissions Requirements
Admission to the University of Pennsylvania’s engineering program is highly competitive. Prospective students are evaluated based on their academic achievements, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and personal essays.
The university looks for students who have excelled in math and science courses and have a strong passion for engineering. It is also important for applicants to demonstrate leadership skills and a commitment to community service.
Notable Alumni
The University of Pennsylvania has a long list of notable alumni who have made significant contributions to the field of engineering. One such alum is Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla and SpaceX. Musk studied physics and economics at Penn before transferring to the University of California, Berkeley.
Other notable alumni include Mary Barra, the CEO of General Motors, and Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft. These successful individuals serve as an inspiration to current and future engineering students at the University of Pennsylvania.
Harvard University
When it comes to prestigious Ivy League schools, Harvard University is often the first name that comes to mind. Known for its academic excellence and rich history, Harvard is also home to a top-ranked engineering program.
Engineering School and Rankings
Harvard’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) offers a wide range of engineering disciplines, including biomedical engineering, computer science, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.
The school is known for its innovative research and interdisciplinary approach to problem-solving. In fact, according to the U.S. News and World Report, Harvard’s engineering program consistently ranks among the top in the nation.
One area where Harvard excels is in the field of biomedical engineering. The school’s research initiatives in this area have led to groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in healthcare. Students have the opportunity to work alongside renowned faculty members and gain hands-on experience in state-of-the-art laboratories.
Admissions Requirements
Getting into Harvard’s engineering program is highly competitive. The university looks for students who not only have strong academic records but also demonstrate a passion for engineering and a commitment to making a positive impact in the field.
Applicants are expected to have a strong background in math and science, as well as a solid foundation in other core subjects.
In addition to academic achievements, Harvard values extracurricular involvement and leadership qualities. Applicants are encouraged to showcase their diverse interests and experiences outside of the classroom, whether it’s through participation in clubs, community service, or research projects.
Notable Alumni
Harvard’s engineering program has produced numerous successful alumni who have made significant contributions to their respective fields. Some notable alumni include:
- Elon Musk: The CEO of SpaceX and Tesla Motors, Musk studied physics and economics at Harvard before dropping out to pursue entrepreneurial ventures.
- Ursula Burns: The former CEO of Xerox Corporation, Burns earned her master’s degree in mechanical engineering from Harvard before starting her career in the business world.
- Susan Hockfield: The former president of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Hockfield earned her PhD in neuroscience from Harvard before becoming a prominent leader in academia.
These are just a few examples of the many accomplished individuals who have graduated from Harvard’s engineering program. Their success serves as a testament to the quality of education and opportunities available at the university.
To learn more about Harvard’s School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, you can visit their official website here.
Yale University
When it comes to top Ivy League schools for engineering, Yale University is certainly a name that stands out. With its prestigious reputation and commitment to excellence, Yale offers a range of engineering programs that attract students from all over the world.
Let’s take a closer look at what makes Yale a top choice for aspiring engineers.
Engineering School and Rankings
Yale University’s School of Engineering and Applied Science is known for its innovative and interdisciplinary approach to education. The school offers a variety of engineering programs, including chemical engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering.
These programs are consistently ranked among the best in the nation, with Yale often being recognized as one of the top engineering schools in the Ivy League.
According to the U.S. News & World Report, Yale’s engineering graduate programs are highly regarded, with specialties such as biomedical engineering and environmental engineering receiving particularly high rankings.
This recognition speaks to the quality of education and research opportunities available to engineering students at Yale.
Admissions Requirements
Gaining admission to Yale University’s engineering programs is no easy feat. The university has high standards for its applicants and looks for individuals who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, strong analytical and problem-solving skills, and a passion for engineering.
Applicants to Yale’s engineering programs must submit their SAT or ACT scores, high school transcripts, recommendation letters, and a personal statement. Additionally, the university highly encourages students to take advanced math and science courses in high school to demonstrate their preparedness for the rigor of the engineering curriculum.
Notable Alumni
Yale University has a long list of notable alumni who have made significant contributions to the field of engineering. One such example is Robert J. Shiller, a Nobel laureate in economics who earned his Ph.D. in economics from Yale.
While not an engineer by training, Shiller’s work on behavioral economics has had a profound impact on the field.
Another notable alumnus is John D. Hennessy, who earned his Bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Yale before going on to co-found the technology company Intel. Hennessy’s contributions to the design of modern computer architectures have earned him numerous accolades, including the Turing Award.
These are just a few examples of the many accomplished alumni who have emerged from Yale University’s engineering programs. The strong network of successful graduates is a testament to the quality of education and opportunities available to engineering students at Yale.
Brown University
Brown University is renowned for its strong engineering programs and is consistently ranked among the top Ivy League schools for engineering. The university offers a wide range of engineering disciplines, including biomedical engineering, computer engineering, and mechanical engineering.
Engineering School and Rankings
The School of Engineering at Brown University is highly regarded for its innovative research and cutting-edge curriculum. It is consistently ranked among the top engineering schools in the country by various publications and organizations.
According to the U.S. News & World Report, Brown University’s engineering program is ranked #14 in the nation. The program is known for its interdisciplinary approach, encouraging students to collaborate with other departments and explore the intersection of engineering with other fields, such as biology and computer science.
The engineering faculty at Brown University is composed of accomplished researchers and industry professionals who are dedicated to providing students with a quality education. The small class sizes allow for personalized attention and mentorship, fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment.
Admissions Requirements
Admission to Brown University’s engineering program is highly competitive. Prospective students need to demonstrate strong academic performance, particularly in math and science courses. They should also have a passion for problem-solving and a desire to make a positive impact through engineering.
Applicants are required to submit their high school transcripts, standardized test scores (such as the SAT or ACT), letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. Additionally, it is recommended to have a solid background in math, physics, and computer science.
Notable Alumni
Brown University has produced many successful engineers who have made significant contributions to their fields. Some notable alumni include:
- Elon Musk: Founder and CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, Inc.
- Arati Prabhakar: Former Director of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA)
- Josephine Cheng: Vice President of Engineering at Facebook
- Frederick Morgan Scherer: Professor of Engineering and Public Policy at Carnegie Mellon University
These alumni serve as inspiration for current and future students, showcasing the potential for success and impact that can be achieved through a Brown University engineering education.
For more information about Brown University’s engineering program, you can visit their official website: https://www.brown.edu/academics/engineering/
Dartmouth College
Engineering School and Rankings
Dartmouth College, located in Hanover, New Hampshire, is one of the top Ivy League schools for engineering. The Thayer School of Engineering at Dartmouth offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs.
It is known for its interdisciplinary approach to engineering education, combining technical expertise with a focus on societal impact. The Thayer School consistently ranks among the best engineering schools in the country.
According to U.S. News & World Report’s latest rankings, Dartmouth College is ranked #41 for engineering programs. This high ranking reflects the school’s strong faculty, research opportunities, and commitment to providing a well-rounded engineering education.
Admissions Requirements
Dartmouth College has a highly competitive admissions process for its engineering programs. Prospective students must have a strong academic background, including coursework in math and science. The school also considers extracurricular activities, leadership experience, and personal qualities when evaluating applicants.
Admission to the Thayer School of Engineering is not guaranteed, even for highly qualified applicants. The school looks for students who demonstrate a passion for engineering, a desire to make a positive impact in the world, and the potential to thrive in a rigorous academic environment.
Notable Alumni
Dartmouth College has produced many notable alumni in the field of engineering. One such alumnus is Sheryl Sandberg, the Chief Operating Officer of Facebook. Sandberg graduated from Dartmouth with a degree in economics and has since become one of the most influential women in the tech industry.
Another notable alumnus is Dr. Robert Langer, a renowned chemical engineer and recipient of the National Medal of Science. Dr. Langer’s groundbreaking work in drug delivery systems has revolutionized the field of medicine and has had a significant impact on patient care.
These are just a few examples of the successful engineers who have graduated from Dartmouth College. The school’s strong engineering programs and commitment to innovation continue to produce graduates who make a difference in their respective fields.
Conclusion
The Ivy League is home to some of the oldest, most prestigious engineering programs in the world. While all eight schools provide a top-notch education, Princeton, Cornell, Columbia, Penn, and Harvard stand out for their highly-ranked programs and influential alumni networks.
We hope this outline gives you a comprehensive overview of engineering at the Ivy League schools. Use this as a starting point as you research the perfect program for your academic and career goals.
