Engineering Degrees

Engineering Degree

Engineering is a field that includes the study of math, biology, chemistry, mechanics, computer science, and even physics. Overall, this field focuses on solving problems by turning a theoretical idea into a practical plan, product, or process. There are a variety of different types of engineering degrees available at both the undergraduate and graduate level, including associate in engineering, bachelor's in engineering, master's in engineering, and Ph.D. in engineering degrees.

Students can earn an engineering degree in a range of different subfields, such as in:

• Civil engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Environmental engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Biosystems engineering
• Petroleum engineering
• Software engineering

Each subfield has its own unique focus and coursework requirements. For example, civil engineering centers on the design and development of built environments, including roads, water systems, and tunnels, while chemical engineering centers more on the process of producing energy and materials from chemical reactions.

As such, a degree in engineering allows students to pursue a specialized career in several different fields and industries, such as in construction, software development, food safety, government, and logistics. In each career field, engineers work to come up with solutions to the issues within their field. A software engineer tests and creates new software systems based on need, and an environmental engineer will solve issues dealing with pollution or wastewater.

The 50 Best Engineering Schools (2020-2021 School Year)

Students interested in earning an engineering degree have lots of options when it comes to choosing a discipline and a school. As a wide-ranging field, there are undergraduate and graduate degrees available in such areas as civil engineering, biomedical engineering, computer engineering, chemical engineering, and aerospace engineering. To help you decide which school and engineering degree is right for you, we've put together a guide of what we consider to be the best engineering schools. To build our list, we took into account such factors as tuition costs, student retention numbers, and other data from the US Department of Education. We also considered whether the offered programs had received accreditation from the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET and what types of research, competition, and study abroad opportunities were available to students.

1. Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

In the top spot is Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, which offers several Bachelor of Science engineering degrees, including those in following specialties:

• Software engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Biomedical engineering
• Mechanical engineering

The school also offers outstanding master's degrees in civil/environmental engineering, optical engineering, electrical engineering, and more. These Terre Haute, Indiana-based programs have a ton of distinctions, such as the undergraduate software engineering programs being the only ABET-accredited of its kind in the state. Students benefit from a low 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio, an average class of only 20 students, and access to modern lab spaces that include tissue/culture labs for biomedical engineering students and a circuit lab for computer engineering students.

2. Colorado School of Mines

Located in Golden, Colorado School of Mines is home to exceptional Bachelor of Science degrees in geophysical engineering, petroleum engineering, environmental engineering, and more. Also offered here are great master's and PhD degree programs in electrical engineering, chemical/biological engineering, and hydrological engineering among other excellent programs. Students here have great opportunities to explore engineering in real-world settings, including through the Edgar Experimental Mine where mining engineering students can learn in an underground classroom and experience how a real mine works. This school also has rich research partnerships with institutions such as the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and plenty of laboratories where students can conduct research.

3. South Dakota School of Mines and Technology

The graduates of the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology in Rapid City get an excellent yield on their educational investment with an average starting salary of over $63,350 and a 97% job placement rate after completing their degree. At this school, students can earn Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and PhD degrees in such areas as chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, mining engineering, and more. As part of their education, students gain hands-on experience by participating in engineering-focused co-ops and internships, learning through project-based courses, and joining the Mines Advantage program, which offers professional and personal development opportunities.

4. Montana Technological University

Engineering students at Montana Technological University in Butte participate in a range of cool projects and research endeavors, including the Lunar Robotics Project that is competing to build a robot to mine Mars and the PDCI Damping Control Project, which is an engineering power grid project. Students also get to study in the Natural Resource Research Center Building, which contains high-tech labs. This university boasts notable Bachelor of Science degrees in civil engineering, geological engineering, mining engineering, and electrical engineering, among others. Students interested in a graduate degree can enter a fantastic Masters of Engineering program that has options for petroleum, geotechnical, materials engineering and more, and a great PhD in Earth Science and Engineering program.

5. Missouri University of Science and Technology

The Missouri University of Science and Technology, located in Rolla, boasts 15 engineering programs, including noteworthy Bachelor of Science degrees in:

• Aerospace engineering
• Ceramic engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Nuclear engineering
• Metallurgical engineering

Also offered here are phenomenal Master of Science and PhD programs in such fields as aerospace engineering, civil engineering, and petroleum engineering- just to name a few. Since this is a leading research university, students get to collaborate with faculty on a range of unique research projects, including engineering for extreme environments, infrastructure research, and sustainable energy. Students can also join engineering design teams where they work with peers on such cool projects like concrete canoes and solar houses.

6. Michigan Technological University

At Michigan Technological University in Houghton, aspiring engineers can earn excellent Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and/or PhD degrees in the areas of:

• Biomedical engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Mining engineering
• Geological engineering

This school also boasts great bachelor's degrees in geospatial engineering, electrical engineering, and software engineering. Students at this university have great opportunities to develop their skills beyond the classroom, including through joining student organizations, such as the Audio Engineering Society (AES) and the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES). They can also take study abroad trips where they use their engineering skills on community improvement projects. Because research is key here as well, students have access to several excellent research centers where they can work with faculty to gather experience researching and gain a good resume boost.

7. Milwaukee School of Engineering

The Wisconsin-based Milwaukee School of Engineering offers students a personalized educational experience where students learn straight from faculty who have excellent industry experience, and enjoy an average lecture class size of 20 students and a lab class size of only 11 students. Offered here are outstanding Bachelor of Science degrees in fields including architectural engineering, civil engineering, and mechanical engineering, as well as terrific Master of Science degrees in engineering, civil engineering, and architectural engineering. Students benefit from a campus that has more labs than classrooms, and there are plenty of opportunities for engineering students in particular to study abroad, with architectural engineering and computer engineering students able to study in Prague.

8. Kettering University

Kettering University in Flint, Michigan has an educational philosophy that emphasizes hands-on learning, and as such, students complete co-op experiences throughout their entire degree program, with past engineering students working with real companies on projects like autonomous driving technology and spacecraft technology. Students interested in pushing themselves further can join up with their peers on competitive teams to work on reducing snowmobile emissions and design vehicles. This university boasts a range of exceptional Bachelor of Science degrees in computer engineering, electrical engineering, industrial engineering, and mechanical engineering as well as great Master of Science in Engineering degrees in such areas as mobility systems, mechanical engineering, and computer engineering.

9. Massachusetts Maritime Academy

Located in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts Maritime Academy offers noteworthy Bachelor of Science degrees in energy systems engineering, facilities engineering, and marine engineering. Students at this academy have unique opportunities to gain real-world experience, and marine engineering students get practical training aboard commercial ships or the USTS Kennedy and are prepared for tests to apply to be a US Coast Guard Third Assistant Engineer, Steam, Motor, and Gas Turbine, Unlimited Horsepower. Facilities engineering students and energy systems engineering students can participate in a trip to Costa Rica where they study power and renewable energy.

10. Worcester Polytechnic Institute

The Massachusetts-located Worcester Polytechnic Institute boasts a range of remarkable engineering degrees, including Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and PhD programs in:

• Electrical and computer engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Robotics engineering
• Aerospace engineering
• Chemical engineering

This institute provides students with a project-based education where they work on team projects that touch on real-world problems. Students often complete global projects for their required Major Qualifying Project (MQP) with a past student engineering a flipper for amputee sea turtles. Research is also a major part of the engineering education here, and students routinely collaborate with faculty on research projects that touch on everything from regenerative medicine to green buildings.

11. New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Undergraduate engineering students at the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology are offered unique opportunities to engage in research with many students being hired by faculty to work on research projects and winning research awards, such as the regional Society of Petroleum Engineers student paper contest. Students can also conduct research and design their own projects at the Intelligent Energetic Systems Engineering (INTENSE) REU site, which focuses on robotics and shock physics. This school in Socorro offers exceptional Bachelor of Science degrees in civil engineering, mineral engineering, and chemical engineering, among others, as well as a terrific Master of Engineering Management degree program and master's degrees in everything from electrical engineering to materials engineering.

12. United States Merchant Marine Academy

The United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York uniquely prepares students for careers as engineers in the merchant marines by offering notable Bachelor of Science degrees in marine engineering, marine systems engineering, or marine engineering and shipyard management. Along with earning their degree, students also graduate with a Merchant Mariner's Credential as a Third Assistant Engineer. Over the course of their programs, students spend time at sea on merchant vessels, take courses, and complete a shore-based internship. They also get the use of modern lab facilities and equipment in order to gain hands-on practical experience.

13. Lawrence Technological University

Located in Southfield, Michigan, Lawrence Technological University boasts a diverse range of Bachelor of Science degrees in such areas as:

• Robotics engineering
• Embedded software engineering
• Computer engineering
• Biomedical engineering
• Electrical engineering

This school also offers outstanding Master of Science degrees in the fields of civil engineering, automotive engineering, and architectural engineering, among others, and PhD programs in civil engineering, manufacturing systems, and mechanical engineering. Students in these great programs get to develop their expertise beyond the lecture hall through opportunities to complete a co-op or internship or join a competition team to design retaining walls, race cars, or steel bridges. There are several world-class labs on-campus that students can use, including an Aerodynamics lab.

14. Clarkson University

Every engineering student at Clarkson University has the chance to participate in team-based learning that emphasizes interdisciplinary projects. As such, students can join a number of different project teams, such as the Design, Build, Fly team that designs planes or the FIRST Robotics program that builds remote-controlled robots to enter into competitions. This Potsdam, New York-based school offers notable Bachelor of Science degrees in specializations including computer engineering, electrical engineering, and aeronautical engineering, as well as Master of Science and PhD programs in environmental science and engineering, mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, and other areas. To further complement their education, there are also unique opportunities to engage in service learning abroad through programs like Engineers for International Sustainability where students can work on sustainability projects for developing communities.

15. Georgia Institute of Technology - Main Campus

Georgia Institute of Technology - Main Campus, commonly referred to as Georgia Tech, boasts incredible Bachelor of Science degrees that allow students to study in the following fields:

• Nuclear/radiological engineering
• Electrical/computer engineering
• Chemical/biomedical engineering
• Civil/environmental engineering
• Aerospace engineering

This Atlanta-based school also offers top-notch master's degrees and PhDs in similar areas as its undergraduate engineering degrees, and students can also choose dual degree paths where they can earn a bachelor's and master's in only 5 years. Bachelor's students who seek to gain real-world experience as part of their education can participate in an optional co-op experience during which they spend multiple semesters working at engineering-focused firms or companies as full-time employees and earn their bachelor's degree in a total of 5 years. Students can also spend a semester abroad, studying bioengineering in Ireland on electrical engineering in China, or they can complete the Research Option where they design and implement their own research project.

16. New Jersey Institute of Technology

At this school, students can earn an excellent Bachelor of Science degree in chemical, engineering, electrical engineering, industrial engineering, and other engineering fields. There is also a robust offering of graduate degrees in everything from internet engineering to pharmaceutical engineering as well. All engineering students at the New Jersey Institute of Technology in Newark benefit from a modern, 9,500 square ft. facility dubbed the Makerspace, which contains a 3-D printer, industrial machines like soldering stations, drill presses, and lasers, and prototyping machines- all for student use. Students even have opportunities to engage in their research interests through working with faculty or spearheading their own research project.

17. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

The School of Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York is dedicated to tackling real global issues and is involved in cutting-edge research into such areas as stem cells/tissue engineering, materials development, and biocomputing. Engineering graduate students at this school have won distinguished awards and fellowships, while undergraduate students often present their research at an annual research symposium. To aid in developing their skills, there are several labs and studio space on-campus where engineering students can work on research projects or use industry equipment. This institution offers noteworthy Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, Master of Engineering, and PhD programs in such areas as civil engineering, chemical engineering, nuclear engineering, and more.

18. Arizona State University - Polytechnic

With a campus in Mesa, Arizona State University - Polytechnic boasts terrific Bachelor of Science in Engineering degree programs in the fields of automotive systems, electrical systems, mechanical engineering, and robotics, as well as Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in human systems engineering and manufacturing engineering. Students in these incredible programs get to use state-of-the-art labs and centers where they can research topics such as orthotics or robotic systems. Additionally, students get to show off their research projects at the Innovation Showcase where students display their solutions to a variety of real-world problems. Students that aspire to pursue their education even further can choose from the notable PhD programs in human systems engineering, systems engineering, and engineering education systems and design.

19. Stevens Institute of Technology

Located in Hoboken, New Jersey, Stevens Institute of Technology offers an assortment of excellent Bachelor of Engineering degree in many areas, includes those in the following:

• Biomedical engineering
• Computer engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Environmental engineering

This school also offers incredible master's and PhD programs in unique areas such as ocean engineering, biomedical engineering, and material science and engineering. Home to a range of world-class research centers, this school grants students the chance to collaborate with faculty on biomedical, marine, and artificial intelligence research. Students are also supported in their entrepreneurship pursuits and can take advantage of programs such as the IDEaS program that offers mentorships, guidance, and facilities in which students can build and create.

20. SUNY Maritime College

SUNY Maritime College, located in the Bronx, New York, boasts Bachelor of Engineering degrees that are a perfect choice for students who also want to earn a US Coast Guard (USCG) engine or deck license, with program options in the following majors:

• Electrical engineering
• Facilities engineering
• Marine engineering
• Mechanical engineering
• Naval architecture

These amazing programs are customizable to a student's interests and career goals. For example, the electrical engineering program features a deck option for students who want to learn cargo handling and navigation and an engine option for students who want to study ship engines and energy systems. There is also a professional internship track geared toward students who don't plan on working aboard a vessel that offers a more traditional college experience and includes 2 professional internships.

21. Wentworth Institute of Technology

Students at Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston, Massachusetts enjoy a hands-on educational experience where they get access to state-of-the-art lab spaces, including the Casella Robotics Laboratory, the Geotechnical Lab, and the Concrete Lab. Graduating students present their final research capstone projects at the Senior Design Showcase each year. This school boasts outstanding Bachelor of Science degrees in biological engineering, electrical engineering, computer engineering, and more, as well as a fantastic Master of Engineering in Civil Engineering, which features an online and on-campus format. Students at the institute can take advantage of a study abroad program that can take them to Australia, Spain, Ireland, and elsewhere to study electrical and mechanical engineering or biological engineering.

22. United States Naval Academy

The United States Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland offers excellent Bachelor of Science in Engineering degrees in the following areas, among others:

• Mechanical engineering
• Ocean engineering
• Weapons and systems engineering
• Naval architecture engineering
• Aerospace engineering
• Electrical/computer engineering

Midshipman students at this academy have great opportunities to hone their research skills, and chosen students even have the chance to become Trident Scholars and present their original engineering research. Students wishing to pursue a career in the nuclear Navy can also apply to the Bowman Scholar program where they get to participate in a summer research-focused internship. Students can also get hands-on training at the Naval Academy Hydromechanics Laboratory where they can conduct research on marine engineering and naval architecture topics.

23. West Virginia University Institute of Technology

West Virginia University Institute of Technology boasts several phenomenal Bachelor of Science degrees in aerospace engineering, industrial engineering, chemical engineering, and other engineering areas. Students at this Beckley, West Virginia-based school enjoy professional and personal support during their educational journey, including help in finding the perfect co-op or internship experience. Students also get lots of chances to connect with peers and build a community through such student groups as the Fluid Power Club and the Society of Automotive Engineers Aero Design team.

24. Manhattan College

The engineering students at Manhattan College benefit from a range of student organizations and clubs that let them make peer connections and get practical engineering experience. For example, students can join the Society of Women Engineers club that supports women in the engineering field or the Mini Baja club where students design and build an off-road vehicle for a competition. This Riverdale, New York-based school boasts exceptional Bachelor of Science degrees in:

• Chemical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Computer engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Mechanical engineering

Students can also earn a distinguished Master of Science degree in such areas as environmental engineering, mechanical engineering, or civil engineering. There are also a ton of great opportunities to gain hands-on engineering experience, including through independent study, the Jasper Summer Research Scholars program, and internship opportunities.

25. Iowa State University

With a campus in Ames, Iowa State University offers some outstanding Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees in a diverse range of engineering fields, including materials engineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, and agricultural engineering. Students can also choose a concurrent degree program where they earn a bachelor's and master's in only 5 years of study. The engineering department here presents great opportunities for students to engage in the field, including through high-tech research labs, such as the Air Dispersion Laboratory and the ISU Grain Quality Laboratory, and through a range of student clubs like the American Society of Agricultural and Biological Engineers. This university also offers unique internship abroad opportunities where students can work and research in places like Germany and Taiwan.

26. Oregon Institute of Technology

At the Oregon Institute of Technology in Klamath Falls, students can earn a fantastic Bachelor of Science degree in such fields as the following:

• Civil engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Software engineering technology
• Computer engineering technology
• Renewable energy engineering

This school also boasts amazing Master of Science degrees in civil engineering, engineering, and manufacturing engineering technology. Students in these awesome programs get to apply what they learn in the classroom to real-world projects, with past students having built greenhouses and a pedestrian bridge. Students can also choose to participate in internships, including the Multiple Engineering Cooperative Program (MECOP) program that includes 6-month paid internships at industry-related companies.

27. Pennsylvania State University - Penn State Harrisburg

Located in Middletown, Pennsylvania State University - Penn State Harrisburg is home to top-notch research centers where students gain first-hand research skills, such as the Center for Signal Integrity and the Central Pennsylvania Research and Teaching Laboratory for Biofuels. Students get further practical and professional experience through the Early Internship Program that helps them find an industry specific placement and a study abroad program especially for engineering majors that takes them to places like Germany. The degree offerings here are diverse and include excellent Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, and Master of Engineering programs in the following fields:

• Mechanical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Engineering management
• Electrical engineering technology

This school also offers notable integrated bachelor's to master's programs in electrical engineering and civil/environmental engineering.

28. California Institute of Technology

The California Institute of Technology in Pasadena boasts extraordinary Bachelor of Science degrees in bioengineering, electrical engineering, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, and other fields. For students who desire a graduate level degree, the school is proud to offer numerous Master of Science, Master of Engineer, and PhD degrees, in fields like chemical engineering, civil engineering, medical engineering, and space engineering. No matter their specific engineering interest, students are able to find a research center where they can work with faculty on cutting research, including centers that are exploring autonomous systems and data-driven computing. Students can also participate in a range of research programs, such as the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships (SURF) and the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowships Exchange Program.

29. Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Engineering students at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University have great opportunities to study engineering from an international perspective with chances to complete research or an internship abroad. Right on campus, however, students can also develop important practical and research skills by utilizing the Ware Lab and the Advanced Engineering Design Lab (AEDL), which are all-purpose build spaces that also are home to competition engineering teams. This Blacksburg-based university boasts phenomenal Bachelor of Science degrees in aerospace engineering, biomedical engineering, ocean engineering, and other great areas. Students can also pursue a distinguished Master of Science, Master of Engineering, or PhD degree in areas such as chemical engineering, mining/minerals engineering, nuclear engineering, and other fields.

30. Oklahoma Christian University

With a campus in Edmond, Oklahoma Christian University offers outstanding Bachelor of Science degrees in computer engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering. Not only can this school boast that it was the first to offer a software engineering focused degree in Oklahoma, but the electrical engineering and computer engineering programs also proudly claim that 100% of graduates are in grad school or employed within 6 months after graduating. At the graduate level, there is a terrific Master of Science in Engineering degree program that features short 8-week courses, the option to study on campus 1 or 2 nights a week, and an optional, highly beneficial practicum experience. No matter what program students pursue, they will study engineering through a Christian context and have the opportunities to complete mission-focused engineering projects around the world.

31. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Daytona Beach

In Florida, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University - Daytona Beach boasts a number of remarkable Bachelor of Science degrees in everything from aerospace engineering to software engineering, as well as exceptional Master of Science degrees in:

• Mechanical engineering
• Engineering physics
• Civil engineering
• Cybersecurity engineering
• Systems engineering

This university provides students with a project-based education where they get ample chances to work with faculty and peers on teams that build robots, vehicles, and concrete canoes. Students can also join the Engineering Models Learning Community where they make close connections with peers, gain professional skills, and design and test out rockets. Additionally, this university offers world-class labs and build space for students, including a green garage and an aircraft design lab.

32. Virginia Military Institute

Located in Lexington, the Virginia Military Institute offers notable Bachelor of Science degrees in civil engineering, electrical/computer engineering, and mechanical engineering. This school recognizes that its students may want to specialize in a further field so they can be well prepared for future careers, so students in the mechanical engineering area can choose a concentration in nuclear engineering or aerospace engineering, while civil engineering students can choose from a range of excellent concentrations, such as:

• Geotechnical engineering
• Fluid mechanics/hydraulic engineering
• Construction management
• Environmental engineering

Students in these amazing programs get full hands-on training, and mechanical engineering students in particular complete a capstone where they design a team engineering project in conjunction with local industry partners. The electrical/computer engineering program features classes that all have practical lab components, and students can even engage in independent design projects to further develop their skills.

33. Purdue Global - Main Campus

Purdue Global - Main Campus in West Lafayette has an incredible engineering degree for every interested student, including Bachelor of Science degrees in numerous areas, including the following:

• Mechanical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Materials engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Nuclear engineering

This school also offers wonderful Master of Science degrees in everything from industrial engineering to engineering education and even offers online graduate options in aeronautics/astronautics, mechanical engineering, and more. Undergraduate students benefit from a unique learning framework called the G.R.I.T.+ initiative, which gets students learning beyond the classroom through participation in global engineering programs, community service projects, and summer research projects. All students can take advantage of world-class lab spaces and facilities that can do things like simulate earthquakes and blasts or help students study aerodynamics.

34. University of Alabama in Huntsville

Engineering students at the University of Alabama in Huntsville can forge important peer connections, build their teamwork skills, and work on fascinating projects by joining groups like the competition robotics team or Space Hardware Club. Research is also key at this university, and students work alongside faculty and on their own in facilities like the Propulsion Research Center and the Advanced Robotics Laboratory. Here, students are able to earn fantastic Bachelor of Science degrees in fields including:

• Aerospace engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Mechanical engineering

Also offered here are fabulous Master of Science and PhD programs in such fields as mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer engineering- just to name a few.

35. Texas A & M University - Kingsville

Texas A & M University - Kingsville provides its engineering students with plenty of opportunities to gain hands-on experience in the field of their choice, and in the past has offered internships with construction management and water resources companies. This school boasts amazing Bachelor of Science engineering degrees in several areas, including architectural engineering, environmental engineering, industrial engineering, and more, as well as notable Master of Engineering degrees in areas such as natural gas engineering, environmental engineering, and more. To aid them in their engineering training, engineering students get access to a range of facilities and labs, including a machine shop and labs for materials science and engineering measurements.

36. North Carolina State University at Raleigh

North Carolina State University at Raleigh boasts superb Bachelor of Science degrees in such areas as:

• Textile engineering
• Nuclear engineering
• Construction engineering
• Biological engineering
• Chemical engineering

This school also offers a range of exceptional graduate degrees, such as Master of Science and PhD degrees, with online options and areas of focus in computer engineering, biomedical engineering, and nanoengineering- just to name a few examples. Home to over 20 engineering centers that conduct high-tech research, the engineering department is dedicated to presenting students with all the hands-on research they need, including opportunities to conduct research abroad, to collaborate with faculty, or to work on student teams. There is also the opportunity to participate in the Engineering Entrepreneurs Program, which is a comprehensive learning opportunity where students solve a real-world engineering problem of their choosing.

37. University of Wisconsin - Platteville

At the University of Wisconsin - Platteville, students can earn a brilliant Bachelor of Science degree in the area of civil engineering, industrial engineering, and mechanical engineering, among many other related fields. These programs boast amazing opportunities for hands-on learning, including through internships and partnerships with industry companies. Students can also join an organization that fits their engineering focus, such as the Pioneer Performance Engineering club or the Society of Manufacturing Engineers, as a means to develop their skills and network with professionals. At the graduate level, this school offers a great Master of Science in Engineering degree program that can conveniently be completed online and features emphasis areas in engineering design, engineering management, and more.

38. University of Michigan - Dearborn

The University of Michigan - Dearborn believes that experiential learning is the key to the future success of engineering students, and that's why students can participate in co-ops and internships and join student teams like the Formula SAE that design racecars or the Intelligent Systems Club that builds and programs robots. Students can also travel and study abroad through an exchange program where they study engineering by taking a course at a partner institution in Sweden and Germany. This school boasts excellent Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Science in Engineering programs in such areas as software engineering, bioengineering, robotics engineering, and more. Students can also earn incredible Master of Science or Master of Science in Engineering degrees in everything from engineering management to energy systems engineering.

39. California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo

California Polytechnic State University - San Luis Obispo offers eminent Bachelor of Science degrees in the following areas:

• Aerospace engineering
• General engineering
• Manufacturing engineering
• Software engineering
• Materials engineering

Also offered here are incredible Master of Science degree programs in the fields of industrial engineering, mechanical, and civil/environmental engineering, among other options. At this university, students learn by doing, so the engineering department boasts more than 80 labs where students research everything from artificial intelligence to plastic alternatives. Additionally, the international exchange program presents opportunities specifically for engineering students where they can study at partner universities in countries including Australia, Germany, and Sweden. As part of its commitment to the success of its students, female engineering students can benefit from the Women's Engineering Program program that provides social and leadership activities.

40. Citadel Military College of South Carolina

The Citadel Military College of South Carolina in Charleston has the distinction of not only being one of the first 5 engineering degree programs in the country but also being the first college in the state to offer an accredited engineering program. Here, students have two ways of earning a prominent Bachelor of Science degree, including through the cadet/military program and through a 2+2 transfer program where they earn an associate degree from another institution before continuing at this college. Students can choose from the following areas in which to earn their BS degree:

• Construction engineering
• Computer engineering
• Manufacturing engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Mechanical engineering

Graduate students also have great options, including Master of Science degrees in civil engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering among other choices. Students at this college benefit from personalized attention through small class sizes and learn within a military-centered framework that emphasizes discipline and ethics.

41. Illinois Institute of Technology

The Armour College of Engineering at Illinois Institute of Technology provides students with a rigorous engineering learning experience that encompasses lectures, immersive problem-solving, and team-based projects. As such, students can participate in R&D programs that focus on research or technology and allow students to develop their hands-on engineering skills. There are also great chances to form a student group, apply for funding, and spearhead an engineering project. This Chicago-based school boasts a range of diverse Bachelor of Science degrees in some of the below areas:

• Aerospace engineering
• Architectural engineering
• Biomedical engineering
• Material science and engineering
• Mechanical engineering

On the graduate level, students can earn a terrific Master of Engineering, Master of Science, or PhD degree in such areas as chemical engineering, urban systems engineering, structural engineering, and many more areas.

42. Lehigh University

Located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, Lehigh University's engineering students are taught to explore the field through a multi-disciplinary, all-inclusive lens that emphasizes solving real societal issues. At this university, students can earn fantastic Bachelor of Science degrees in bioengineering, materials science and engineering, computer engineering, and other areas. Also offered here are notable Master of Science, Master of Engineering, and PhD degrees in everything from chemical engineering to healthcare systems engineering. These great programs are supplemented with a ton of experiential learning opportunities, including the Interdisciplinary Capstone Design experience where engineering students get to team up with business and art students to design and build new products. Students can also take part in an engineering project supported by leading industry partners.

43. Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Massachusetts Institute of Technology is dedicated to providing students with an innovative, engaging engineering learning experience where students, right from the get-go, are welcomed into over 130,000 feet of makerspace where they learn to use laser cutters, 3D printers, and milling machines. Entrepreneurship is also key here, and alumni and students are currently running over 30,200 companies, partly thanks to several competitions and programs that award funds, offer mentorship, and help launch business ideas. This school in Cambridge boasts incredible Bachelor of Science degrees in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, nuclear science and engineering, and much more. Also offered here are several different types of graduate degrees, including Master of Science, Master of Engineering, PhD and Doctor of Science degree, with options to choose from including aerospace engineering, biological engineering, and chemical engineering.

44. Oregon State University

Oregon State University in Corvallis boasts an engineering degree for just about every student, including Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts degrees in fields including bioengineering, nuclear engineering, industrial engineering, and environmental engineering, as well as Master of Science, Master of Engineering, and PhD degrees in such areas as:

• Materials science
• Biological and ecological engineering
• Chemical engineering
• Electrical and computer engineering

Students at this school have a ton of unique opportunities to build real-world skill sets, including participating in the Cascadia Lifelines Program, which focuses on research associated with mitigating earthquake damage, or with the Marine Studies Initiative that centers on ocean and coastal engineering research. Students can also forge important peer connections by joining one of the school's engineering-focused student groups like the Earthquake Engineering Research Institute, the Society of Women Engineers, and Engineers Without Borders.

45. Auburn University

Located in Auburn, Alabama, Auburn University has been awarding engineering degrees since 1872 and now boasts amazing bachelor's degrees in unique areas such as wireless engineering and biosystems engineering, as well as Master of Science and PhD programs in the following areas:

• Chemical engineering
• Civil engineering
• Aerospace engineering
• Biosystems engineering

Not only can students earn an excellent degree, they can also study outside of the classroom by participating in exchange or faculty-led study abroad programs that can take them from China to Italy and could include research projects, service projects, or company visits. There are also great teams and clubs to join to serve as experience and resume boosters and develop working relationships with peers, such as Auburn Off-Road that designs and builds vehicles and the Space Club that focuses on competition projects related to space. Students can also engage in research right alongside faculty so they can learn effective ways to research.

46. University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign

The University of Illinois at Urbana - Champaign offers outstanding and unique Bachelor of Science degrees in nuclear, plasma, and radiological engineering; innovation, leadership and engineering entrepreneurship; and agricultural and biological engineering, among other options. Students can also attend incredible Master of Science, Master of Engineering, or PhD programs in such fields as chemical engineering, bioengineering, financial engineering, and systems and entrepreneurial engineering, to name just a few of the numerous choices. As part of this school's amazing focus on design and entrepreneurship, students can benefit from access to the resources they need to launch their engineering ideas through the Technology Entrepreneur Center. Students can also participate in a number of faculty-led research groups in order to gain hands-on experience or join an engineering community, such as the Morrill Engineering Program that focuses on supporting minority students.

47. Rochester Institute of Technology

With a campus in Rochester, New York, Rochester Institute of Technology provides students with an engineering education that prioritizes experiential learning. That's why students are required to complete a 1-year co-op experience in the industry and the Multidisciplinary Senior Design, a 2-semester course where students work in teams to design and build engineering projects. Engineering students can also take advantage of a robust study abroad program, in which past students have researched renewable engineering topics in Ireland and helped farmers in Colombia. This school boasts notable Bachelor of Science degrees in the areas of computer engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering, and more. Also offered here are Master of Science, Master of Engineering, or PhD programs in everything from microelectronic engineering to microsystems engineering.

48. Bradley University

At Bradley University, students can earn a phenomenal Bachelor of Science degree in manufacturing engineering, engineering physics, civil engineering, and other areas, as well as exceptional Master of Science degrees in:

• Civil engineering
• Electrical engineering
• Industrial engineering
• Manufacturing engineering
• Mechanical engineering

Students at this Peoria, Illinois-based school enjoy individual attention from professors, a small college atmosphere, and opportunities for networking and internships. In fact, the school prepares its students so well for their future that engineering graduates have a 95% placement rate within 6 months after graduating. The students at Bradley University are creating and building all the time, with past projects including the creation of a replica of the Apollo 11 mission hatch and even a self-playing guitar.

49. Trine University

Trine University offers noteworthy Bachelor of Science degrees in design engineering, software engineering, biomedical engineering, and other great areas. Students here get fantastic opportunities to complete internships or co-ops at a range of companies, such as Crossroad Engineers and Parker Engineered Seals. They also receive personal attention from faculty, 85% of whom have doctoral degrees and one third of whom are registered professional engineers. This Angola, Indiana-located school also boasts a Master of Science in Engineering Management degree program that features an online format and a curriculum that includes the study of business and management topics.

50. University of Colorado Boulder

The engineering students at the University of Colorado Boulder enhance their educational experience by participating in a range of unique programs, including the Colorado Space Grant Consortium where students build real satellites, some of which have been used by NASA, and Engineering for Developing Communities, in which students design and develop sustainable projects. Students here can earn superb Bachelor of Science degrees in everything from architectural engineering to engineering physics. The graduate offerings are also robust with options to pursue an amazing Master of Science or PhD program in such areas as aerospace engineering, environmental engineering, or mechanical engineering- just to name a few.

Associate Degree in Engineering

An associate degree in engineering typically requires students to complete 60 credits of coursework, including some general education courses in the humanities, social sciences, composition, English, and math. Additionally, in a 2-year engineering degree program, students usually study the basics of engineering, including engineering graphics, materials science, and computer aided drafting (CAD) methods and programs.

Many associate-level programs are also designed as a pathway to a full bachelor's degree in engineering, and after completing their associate degree, students can choose to further their education through a bachelor's degree completion program. With an associate degree in engineering, students can pursue an entry-level position the field as an engineering technician, who mainly assist engineers, in the civil, industrial, or mechanical engineering fields.

Bachelor's Degree in Engineering

Bachelor's degrees in engineering usually take about 4 years to earn and require 120 credits. Students complete general education coursework, including taking composition, math, history, economics, and social science classes. Students then take courses within the engineering major. The exact engineering coursework a student is required to complete depends on the field of engineering they are studying, as bachelor's degrees in engineering come in many subfields, including computer, electrical, environmental, industrial, and material science engineering--just to name a few.

So, for example, an environmental engineering bachelor's program may include coursework on air pollution, hazardous waste control, thermodynamics, and hydraulics. A civil engineering program could include courses on structural modeling, transportation engineering, and geographic information systems. Some engineering bachelor's programs also require a final capstone project, which usually consists of a design experience where students define, analyze, and research an engineering problem.

With a bachelor's degree in engineering, a student can pursue a career as a full engineer in their subfield.

Master's Degree in Engineering

Master's degrees in engineering require around 30 total credits with coursework focusing solely on engineering topics and take around 2 years. Master's programs can center on numerous subfields of engineering, including engineering management, aerospace engineering, systems engineering, and many more subfields.

There are generally 2 types of master's degrees in engineering: Master of Science (MS) degrees and Master of Engineering (MEng) degrees. MS degrees are more research focused, and along with coursework, students must usually complete a final project or thesis, which is a long-form research project. However, some MS programs will make a final project optional. MS in Engineering degrees also prepare students for future academic study in a PhD program.

MEng degrees, on the other hand, are more practice-based, usually only requiring coursework and a final exam; although, a final design project may be optional in some programs.

A master's degree in engineering allows a student to pursue a higher-level engineering career that includes management responsibilities and can increase their salary.

PhD in Engineering

PhD in Engineering programs are intensive programs that can take anywhere from 3 to 5 years to complete. These doctoral programs usually have several pathways for admissions: one for those with an engineering master's degree and another for those with only a bachelor's degree in engineering. PhD in Engineering degree programs require that student's complete coursework (those with a bachelor's usually needing to complete more) and qualifying exams. Further, PhD programs require a dissertation, which is a scholarly research project that they must defend and a final exam.

Like other engineering programs, there are several types of PhD programs, including ones that focus on engineering management, mechanical engineering, and systems engineering. Like master's degrees, a PhD can prepare students for higher-level engineer management positions, and it can also prepare them for a career in academia as an engineering professor or in a research-focused position.

Online Engineering Degrees

On the undergraduate level, there are a limited number of online associate programs in engineering. While more prevalent, there are still limited engineering bachelor's programs that are fully online. Generally, associate and bachelor's programs feature a mix of online and on-campus classes. Along with some online classes, students may have to complete on-campus intensives courses or attend weekly classes. Additionally, there are also fully online bachelor's degree completion programs available for associate holders.

Online engineering degrees at the graduate level are also available. Online master's degree programs in engineering can generally be completed fully online with no on-campus requirements. PhD programs allow students to complete classes online and complete their research where they live, but it may be required that students come to campus for part of the dissertation process.

Online engineering programs come with pros and cons. For example, when choosing an online engineering degree program, make sure that the format works for your schedule. Some programs require you attend online live lectures. Other programs may be asynchronous, meaning you can view class lectures and complete assignments on your own time.

One of the best advantages of an online program is that they come in a range of engineering subfields. If your chosen specialty is not available as an on-campus program in your area, you can still pursue the engineering subfield of your choice through an online program. However, it is important to know that out-of-state online students may be charged more in tuition and fees compared to their in-state peers.

Types of Engineering Degrees

There are various types of engineering degrees that have a unique area of study and focus on different industries. Below, you can learn about the specific topics covered in several types of engineering degree programs.

Aerospace Engineering Degree

Aerospace engineering primarily focuses on the design and development of space vehicles and aircraft as well as other space-related objects, such as rockets and missiles. In an aerospace engineering program, students explore such topics as aerodynamics, aircraft dynamics, and aerospace structures. Aerospace engineers can work for NASA, space-focused agencies, and even in the automotive industry.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), aerospace engineers earned a median salary of $116,500 in 2019, and the number of jobs is expected to increase 2% from 2018-2028.

Civil Engineering Degree

Civil engineering concerns the design and planning of built environments, such as roads, tunnels, bridges, and even wastewater systems. Civil engineers work for the government, in construction, and in research. In this type of engineering degree program, students normally learn about structural analysis, hydrology, mechanics of fluids and solids, and transportation systems.

As per the BLS, civil engineers earned a median salary of $87,060 in 2019, and the numbers of jobs is anticipated to increased 6% from 2018-2028.

Electrical Engineering Degree

Electric engineering is a broad range of study that can include several other disciplines of engineering, such as computer engineering, power engineering, and microelectronics engineering. Basically, electric engineering is all about power, circuits, signal processing, and electrical systems. These types of degree programs may include the study of power electronics, phototonics, control systems, and communication systems.

The BLS reports that, in 2019, electrical and electronics engineers earned a median salary of $101,250 and have a projected job growth of 2% from 2018-2028.

Environmental Engineering Degree

Environmental engineering degree programs prepare students to design and create strategies that are used to protect the environment. Environmental engineers work to solve issues such as air pollution, water pollution, and other issues that negatively impact the environment. Students study various disciplines in this subfield, including chemistry, biology, earth science, and math.

In 2019, the median salary of environmental engineers was $88,860, per the BLS, and the number of jobs is expected to increase 5% from 2018-2028.

Mechanical Engineering Degree

Mechanical engineering is another wide-ranging subfield that mainly focuses on the design and creation of machines of all kinds. Mechanical engineers are trained to understand thermodynamics, the dynamic motion of machines, and the basic principles of mechanics to create and build machines for different uses. Mechanical engineers work in a wide range of fields, including in the automotive industry, aerospace, manufacturing, and product design.

According to the BLS, mechanical engineers made a median salary of $88,430 in 2019 and are anticipating a job growth of 4% from 2018-2028.

Petroleum Engineering Degree

Degrees in petroleum engineering have a course of study that centers on the extraction, production, and refinement of fuel for machines and vehicles from the Earth's surface. In this type of program, students study such areas as drilling engineering, natural gas, geosystems engineering, and reservoir engineering.

The BLS states that petroleum engineers earned a median salary of $137,720 and will see a job increase of 3% from 2018-2028.

Software Engineering Degree

Somewhat like computer science, the subfield of software engineering centers on the design and development of computer software as well as the creation of algorithms and other computer programs. In a degree program of this type, students learn about such areas as computer programming languages, computer networks, operating systems, and data engineering.

In 2019, as per the BLS, software developers, who need a degree in software engineering or a similar field, made a median salary of $105,590, and the job outlook increase is 21% from 2018-2028.

What Can You Do with an Engineering Degree?

The engineering career path you follow mainly depends on the level of school you complete and what the focus of your engineering degree is. For example, with an associate degree in civil engineering, you can become a civil engineering technician, but with a bachelor's degree, you can become a full civil engineer. Below, you can learn about the degree requirements, median salary and job growth outlook of several engineering careers.

Salary information provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2019

Engineering Scholarships

To help you afford your engineering degree, you can take advantage of several engineering scholarship opportunities, which are available for both undergraduate and graduate students. Below, you can explore examples of scholarships for engineering students.

Donald and Barbara Mozley Scholarship

SAE International, which is an association of aerospace, automotive and commercial-vehicle engineers and experts, offers this scholarship, which is for college students from the freshman through senior level who are attending an Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)-accredited program. Usually, there are about 7 scholarships of $5,000 available each year. Applicants must have a 3.5 or higher GPA, must meet SAT/ACT score requirements, must have financial need, and must submit a letter of recommendation.

George B. Hightower, P.E. Fellowship

This is a $3,000 award from the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). It is for an undergraduate or graduate student who is a NSPE member and is attending an accredited engineering program. Applicants are evaluated based on their GPA, internship or co-op experiences, faculty recommendations, and any other awards or honors achieved. Applicants must also write a 500-word essay.

David and Catherine Thompson Space Technology Scholarship

This is a $5,000 scholarship awarded by the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) for an undergraduate student pursuing a degree related to the aeronautics industry, such as aeronautic engineering. Applicants must be an AIAA member and have a 3.3 GPA with at least 1 semester of college completed.

ABET Accreditation for Engineering Degree Programs

The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) is an organization that offers peer-reviewed accreditation to on-campus and online engineering and technology degree programs. ABET is made up of 4 commissions, which accredit specific programs within their designated fields. These commissions include the:

• Applied and Natural Science Accreditation Commission (ANSAC)
• Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC)
• Engineering Accreditation Commission (EAC)
• Engineering Technology Accreditation Commission (ETAC)

To achieve accreditation, a program must go through a process that includes a site visit and self-study. ABET accredited engineering programs must meet standards that center on student outcomes, curriculum, program improvements, and faculty resources. ABET accreditation assures students that they are receiving a high-quality education and that their program fully prepares them for an engineering career.

Additionally, many engineering-related certifications and licensures require that applicants have graduated from an ABET-accredited engineering school. For example, state licensure usually requires a degree from an ABET-accredited program, as does the optional Professional Engineering (PE) license, which is for engineers who want to enter a leadership role. Additionally, the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) requires that computing applicants who want to file and work on patents have graduated from an ABET-accredited program as well.