Seeking the best engineering schools in the US? Engineering is a discipline that keeps evolving, influencing global industries and technological breakthroughs.
In the US, an engineering degree currently stands as the seventh most sought-after degree in the country out of 38 disciplines. Thus, choosing the best school has become difficult due to the large number of institutions providing this program.
In this guide, we will explore the 10 best engineering schools in the US for 2024. We will look at their ranking, the number of graduates they produce, and the earning potential of their students. So let’s dive in!
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10 Best Engineering Schools in the US in 2024
Table of Contents
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is a leading example of engineering education and has a stellar track record of turning out top-tier engineers.
MIT stands out for its emphasis on offering top-notch research and educational opportunities, as seen by its distinguished rating of #1 out of 2,217 schools nationwide. A notable accomplishment of the university is the 1,143 engineering graduates, which highlights its dedication to developing talent.
Another remarkable indication of the excellent employment possibilities for graduates is the fact that MIT engineering alumni fetch a median beginning salary of $101,362. Overall, MIT is a great option for prospective engineers looking for an extensive and respected education.
2. Harvard University
Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts is another top engineering school in the US. Their dedication to delivering a first-rate educational experience is clear, as seen by its noteworthy ranking of #6 out of 2,217 universities nationwide.
This citadel of learning awards 292 engineering degrees yearly attesting to its significant contribution to the discipline. Additionally, the engineering program at Harvard commands a noteworthy median starting income of $137,302, which is $68,649 more than the average salary for graduates with comparable degrees.
Because of its stellar reputation and commitment to academic excellence, Harvard is a highly sought-after option for prospective engineers.
3. Stanford University
Located in Stanford, California, Stanford University is a well-known center for engineering discipline. This institution ranks #3 out of 2,217 schools in the country. Additionally, approximately 1,121 engineering graduates each year.
Stanford engineering graduates earn $97,378, which is significantly higher than the starting salaries of graduates from other institutions by a margin of $28,725.
As one of the top engineering schools in the country, Stanford is a deservedly popular choice for students hoping to pursue a career in engineering.
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4. Dartmouth College
One of the top choices for prospective engineers is Dartmouth College, which is located in the peaceful town of Hanover, New Hampshire. Out of 17 schools in New Hampshire, this medium-sized private, non-profit college is the best overall due to its reputation for academic standards.
Dedicated to creating a supportive academic atmosphere, Dartmouth has awarded an astounding 282 engineering degrees as of the most recent data available.
The average starting income for graduates of Dartmouth’s engineering program is $67,309, giving students a strong basis for successful employment in the engineering industry.
5. Duke University
Located in Durham, North Carolina, Duke University is a renowned private non-profit university with a distinguished academic history. Its remarkable position of #7 out of 2,217 schools in the country is proof of its excellence in providing high-quality education.
With 689 engineering degrees awarded in the most recent data year, Duke University is committed to developing graduates with the skills necessary to succeed in the engineering industry.
Duke’s engineering program graduates have a significant advantage over the average college graduate with the same degree, earning around $11,546 or more.
6. Northwestern University
Northwestern University is a well-known, private non-profit university situated in Evanston, Illinois. This institution is a fantastic option for prospective students due to its superb academic offerings. Additionally, it holds an impressive position of #5 among 2,217 schools nationwide.
With 813 engineering graduates yearly, the university’s engineering program produces graduates who have the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the field. Furthermore, graduates earn roughly $11,710 or more when they enter the workforce.
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7. Columbia University
Columbia University is situated in New York City. With over 1,508 alumni, it is one of the universities with the most engineering degrees issued and offers doctorate programs.
Located in the heart of New York City, Columbia is a well-known private non-profit university with a sizable student body. Its outstanding total ranking—#14 out of 2,217 universities nationwide—underlines how good the school is.
Graduates have a significant advantage over other graduates with the same degree, earning $8,758 more when they enter the workforce. This accomplishment enhances Columbia’s standing as a preeminent university.
8. University of Southern California
The University of Southern California, situated in Los Angeles, CA, offers doctoral programs and is popular for awarding the highest number of engineering degrees, with around 1,815 graduates.
Additionally, USC holds a strong position with an impressive overall ranking of #11 out of 2,217 colleges in the US.
Engineering graduates from the University of Southern California have a big advantage over other graduates with similar degrees; they make $17,330 more when they start working. This huge financial advantage highlights USC’s reputation as a top-tier university.
9. University of Pennsylvania
Situated in the metropolis of Philadelphia, UPenn is a highly selective, non-profit university that enrolls a substantial number of students. UPenn is a top-tier university overall, ranking #4 among 2,217 colleges in the US according to Best Colleges.
The most recent year for which we have data indicates that UPenn awarded this degree to about 610 engineering graduates. After graduation, engineering majors at the University of Pennsylvania earn $2,033 more than the average college graduate with the same degree.
10. Carnegie Mellon University
Situated in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University is a private, non-profit institution with a sizable student body. Carnegie Mellon is a top-tier university overall, ranking #9 out of 2,217 colleges in the country according to Best Colleges.
Recent data shows that roughly 1592 engineering students graduated from Carnegie Mellon with engineering degrees.