Choosing the right engineering school is important for a successful career. The US is home to some of the world’s best engineering colleges, offering cutting-edge research, top faculty, and incredible career opportunities. In this guide, we rank the top engineering schools in the US for 2025, helping students find the best institutions based on academic reputation, job placements, and innovation. Find out which universities made the list and why they stand out!
The recent QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025 covers the best universities for 54 different subjects, including 533 top engineering and technology schools around the world – 82 of which are in the US.
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The ranking covers five different branches of engineering – chemical, civil and structural, electrical, mechanical, mineral and mining.
The rankings are compiled using five indicators: academic reputation, employer reputation, research citations per paper, international research network and the H-index (a way of measuring the productivity and impact of published work).
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, MIT is often regarded as the pinnacle of engineering schools in the US. With a diverse range of engineering disciplines, MIT offers innovative programs and cutting-edge research facilities. School emphasizes hands-on learning and problem-solving, preparing students for real-world challenges.
Stanford University
Stanford University’s School of Engineering, situated in California’s Silicon Valley, is synonymous with technological innovation. Known for its entrepreneurial spirit, Stanford is a hub for aspiring engineers looking to make an impact in fields like computer science, electrical engineering, and bioengineering.
California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
Caltech, a small yet prestigious institution in Pasadena, California, stands out in the engineering landscape, focusing heavily on science and technology. With a low student-faculty ratio, Caltech ensures personalized education and fosters a collaborative learning environment ideal for budding engineers.
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
The University of Illinois boasts one of the largest and most comprehensive engineering programs in the US. It is well-respected for its dedication to research and innovation, particularly in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. Students benefit from numerous internships and industry partnerships, further enhancing their educational experience.
University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
The University of Michigan is home to one of the top engineering colleges, recognized for its robust curriculum and extensive research opportunities. The College of Engineering at Michigan offers a wide range of specializations, making it a versatile choice for students aiming to explore various fields within engineering.
Georgia Institute of Technology
Known for its strong emphasis on technology and applied research, Georgia Tech ranks among the leading engineering schools in the US. With its innovative programs and partnerships with industries, the school prepares students for successful careers in engineering and technology.
Carnegie Mellon University
Carnegie Mellon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is renowned for its focus on computer science and engineering. The School of Computer Science and the College of Engineering are both highly ranked, attracting students who aspire to work in fields like robotics, artificial intelligence, and software engineering.
Purdue University, West Lafayette
Purdue University is recognized as one of the best engineering colleges in the US, with a strong emphasis on experiential learning. The College of Engineering at Purdue provides students with opportunities to engage in research and internships, preparing them effectively for careers in engineering.
Texas A&M University
Texas A&M’s College of Engineering is one of the largest and most comprehensive engineering schools in the US. The university is known for its rigorous academic programs and a strong tradition in engineering research, particularly in areas like aerospace and chemical engineering.
University of California—Berkeley
UC Berkeley is known for its commitment to innovation and excellence in engineering education. The College of Engineering offers various disciplines, including civil, environmental, and electrical engineering, and is recognized for its leadership in sustainability and green engineering technologies.
Top Universities for the Engineering and Technology Subject area in the US
Based on the QS World University Rankings by Subject
| US Ranking | World Ranking | Institution | Location |
| 1 | 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Boston(MA) |
| 2 | 2 | Stanford University | San Francisco(CA) |
| 3 | 5 | University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | San Francisco (CA) |
| 4 | 8 | Harvard University | Boston (MA) |
| 5 | 10 | California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | Los Angeles(CA) |
| 6 | 12 | Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) | Atlanta(GA) |
| 7 | 15 | Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh(PA) |
| 8 | 17 | University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) | Los Angeles (CA) |
| 9 | 19 | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Champaign and Urbana (IL) |
| 10 | 23 | University of Texas at Austin | Austin |
Top Universities for Chemical Engineering
| Rank | University | Location | Acceptance Rate | Average SAT | Average ACT | Net Price |
| 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Cambridge, MA | 4% | 1555 | 36 | $20,232 |
| 2 | University of California – Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | 11% | 1415 | 32 | $21,669 |
| 3 | Georgia Institute of Technology | Atlanta, GA | 17% | 1460 | 33 | – |
| 4 | University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | 31% | 1365 | 30 | – |
| 5 | Stanford University | Stanford, CA | 4% | 1540 | 34 | $18,279 |
| 6 | Pennsylvania State University | University Park, PA | 55% | 1300 | 29 | – |
| 7 | Northwestern University | Evanston, IL | 7% | 1530 | 34 | $22,095 |
| 8 | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | 45% | 1415 | 32 | – |
| 9 | Harvard University | Cambridge, MA | 3% | 1535 | 35 | $19,491 |
| 10 | University of Michigan – Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | 18% | 1440 | 33 | – |
Top Universities for Civil and Structural Engineering
| World Ranking | Institution | Location | |
| 1 | 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Boston (MA) |
| 2 | 3 | University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | San Francisco (CA) |
| 3 | 8 | Stanford University | San Francisco (CA) |
| 4 | 14 | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign | Champaign and Urbana (IL) |
| 5 | 15 | University of Texas at Austin | Austin (TX) |
Top Universities for Electrical Engineering
| US Ranking | World Ranking | Institution | Location |
| 1 | 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Boston (MA) |
| 2 | 2 | Stanford University | San Francisco (CA) |
| 3 | 3 | University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | San Francisco (CA) |
| 4 | 7 | Harvard University | Boston (MA) |
| 5 | 12 | California Institute of Technology (Caltech) | Los Angeles (CA) |
Top Universities for Mechanical, Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering
| Ranking | World Ranking | Institution | Location |
| 1 | 1 | Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | Boston (MA) |
| 2 | 2 | Stanford University | San Francisco (CA) |
| 3 | 6 | University of California, Berkeley (UCB) | San Francisco (CA) |
| 4 | 12 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor (MI) |
| 5 | 13 | Harvard University | Boston (MA) |
Choosing a top engineering school is essential for those aspiring to excel in the field. The top engineering schools in the US offer a blend of strong academic programs, research opportunities, and industry connections that prepare students for successful careers.
FAQs
What are the top engineering schools in the US?
Top engineering schools in the US include MIT, Stanford, Caltech, UC Berkeley, and Carnegie Mellon, known for their cutting-edge research and strong programs.
How do I choose the best engineering college?
Consider factors like accreditation, faculty expertise, research opportunities, industry connections, tuition costs, and job placement rates.
What are the admission requirements for engineering schools?
Most engineering schools require strong SAT/ACT scores, a high GPA, recommendation letters, and extracurricular activities in STEM fields.
Are there affordable engineering colleges in the US?
Yes, public universities like Georgia Tech, University of Illinois, and Purdue University offer top programs at a lower cost compared to private institutions.
What are the most popular engineering majors?
Common engineering majors include mechanical, electrical, civil, computer, aerospace, biomedical, and chemical engineering.
Can international students apply to engineering schools in the US?
Yes, most top engineering schools in the US accept international students, but they may require TOEFL/IELTS scores and additional documentation.
What is the average salary for engineering graduates in the US?
Engineering graduates earn an average salary of $70,000 to $100,000 per year, depending on the field and location.
Do engineering schools offer online degree programs?
Yes, many engineering colleges offer online bachelor’s and master’s programs, especially in computer and electrical engineering.
How long does it take to complete an engineering degree?
Bachelor’s degree takes four years, while master’s and Ph.D. programs can take an additional 1–6 years, depending on specialization.
Are internships required for engineering students?
While not always required, internships at tech companies, research labs, or government agencies are highly recommended to gain practical experience.
