Top 20 Engineering Schools

The 2010 edition of U.S. News & World Report's "America's Best Graduate Schools" guidebook presents a highly anticipated and influential ranking of graduate engineering schools across the United States. This annual ranking is based on assessments by academic peers, faculty, and statistical indicators that measure the quality of faculty, research, and student achievements. The 2010 list of the top 20 graduate engineering schools is dominated by a mix of Ivy League institutions, technical powerhouses, and renowned public universities, with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) continuing its reign as the premier engineering school in the country. The list offers valuable insights into the institutions that are shaping the future of engineering through their advanced research, comprehensive academic programs, and influential faculty.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), as expected, claimed the number one spot in the 2010 rankings, reaffirming its status as the world leader in engineering education. MIT has long been at the forefront of engineering and technology, with a rich history of innovation and contributions to a vast array of fields, including electrical engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering, and aerospace engineering. The school is renowned for its rigorous academic environment, cutting-edge research, and extensive industry partnerships, making it the preferred choice for students who aspire to make groundbreaking contributions in engineering and technology. MIT’s graduate engineering programs offer interdisciplinary opportunities that allow students to engage in collaborative research and apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems. It consistently attracts top-tier students and faculty, making it a true powerhouse in the field of engineering.

In the second spot, Stanford University stands as one of the most prestigious and influential engineering schools globally. Stanford’s proximity to Silicon Valley, coupled with its strong connections to the tech industry, gives it a unique advantage in fostering an entrepreneurial spirit among its students. The school’s engineering programs are known for their focus on innovation, cutting-edge technology, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Stanford's graduate engineering students benefit from a broad range of resources, including top-tier faculty, state-of-the-art labs, and strong ties to some of the world’s leading technology companies. Its programs in computer science, electrical engineering, and bioengineering are particularly renowned, making it a popular choice for aspiring engineers who want to push the boundaries of what is possible in technology and science.

The University of California—Berkeley (UC Berkeley) secured the third position in the 2010 rankings, solidifying its place as one of the most respected engineering schools in the country. Known for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and interdisciplinary research, UC Berkeley’s College of Engineering is a leading institution in fields such as civil and environmental engineering, bioengineering, and electrical engineering. UC Berkeley’s proximity to Silicon Valley also contributes to its reputation as a hub for research and technology commercialization. Students at UC Berkeley have access to groundbreaking research opportunities, world-class faculty, and extensive resources to support their academic and professional growth. The university's emphasis on research that tackles global challenges makes it a popular choice for students interested in sustainability, energy, and environmental solutions.

In fourth place, Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech) stands as a leader in engineering education, offering highly regarded programs across a range of engineering disciplines. The College of Engineering at Georgia Tech is one of the most prestigious in the country, with top-ranked programs in industrial engineering, aerospace engineering, and civil engineering. Georgia Tech’s graduate engineering programs are designed to prepare students for leadership roles in both academia and industry, with a strong emphasis on applied research and real-world problem-solving. The institution’s connections to the tech industry and its position in Atlanta, a major hub for business and innovation, provide students with abundant opportunities for internships, networking, and career development. Georgia Tech has earned recognition for its collaborative approach to engineering education, with strong ties to government, industry, and research organizations.

The University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) took the fifth spot, reflecting its standing as one of the top public universities for engineering. UIUC’s College of Engineering is consistently ranked among the best in the nation, offering diverse graduate programs across disciplines such as electrical engineering, computer science, mechanical engineering, and civil engineering. The university is renowned for its research initiatives, particularly in areas like nanotechnology, advanced manufacturing, and robotics. UIUC also boasts a distinguished faculty and a collaborative environment that encourages students to pursue interdisciplinary research. With a global reputation for excellence, UIUC is a top choice for students who want to make a significant impact in the field of engineering.

Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) ranks sixth in the 2010 graduate engineering rankings, reinforcing its position as a leader in engineering education. CMU’s College of Engineering offers world-class programs in areas such as biomedical engineering, robotics, civil engineering, and electrical engineering. The university is renowned for its emphasis on innovation, collaboration, and interdisciplinary research, and it consistently produces graduates who go on to become leaders in both industry and academia. CMU’s strong connections to the tech industry, particularly in fields such as robotics and artificial intelligence, provide students with opportunities for hands-on experience, internships, and collaborative research projects. CMU is also known for its strong entrepreneurial culture, making it an ideal environment for students interested in starting their own companies or working at the cutting edge of technological innovation.

California Institute of Technology (Caltech), tied for seventh in the rankings, is one of the most prestigious engineering schools in the world. Known for its small size, highly selective admissions, and exceptional research output, Caltech offers graduate programs that focus on scientific and technological innovation. Its programs in aeronautical engineering, electrical engineering, and mechanical engineering are among the best globally. Caltech’s faculty members are leaders in their fields, and students benefit from close interaction with professors, as well as access to cutting-edge research projects. The university's collaborative approach and emphasis on basic scientific research make it a leading institution for students interested in theoretical and experimental research.

Also tied for seventh, University of Southern California (USC), specifically the Viterbi School of Engineering, continues to be a leading force in engineering education. The Viterbi School is known for its interdisciplinary approach, combining engineering with business, computer science, and other fields. USC’s graduate engineering programs are especially strong in areas such as electrical engineering, civil engineering, and biomedical engineering. The university's location in Los Angeles, a global hub for technology and entertainment, offers students unique opportunities for internships, networking, and career advancement.

The University of Michigan—Ann Arbor rounds out the top 10, ranking ninth overall. The College of Engineering at the University of Michigan is one of the largest and most comprehensive engineering schools in the nation, offering graduate programs in over 15 engineering disciplines. The university is known for its cutting-edge research, particularly in areas such as automotive engineering, energy, and sustainable design. With a strong focus on interdisciplinary research and collaboration, the University of Michigan provides students with the tools and resources to address complex global challenges.

The University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin), ranked tenth in 2010, is renowned for its engineering programs and strong emphasis on innovation and applied research. UT Austin’s Cockrell School of Engineering offers top-tier graduate programs in a wide range of fields, including civil engineering, petroleum engineering, and aerospace engineering. The university’s state-of-the-art research facilities, as well as its connections to the Texas energy sector, provide students with ample opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and internships.

Beyond these top 10 institutions, the remaining schools in the top 20 graduate engineering rankings—including Cornell University, Purdue University, University of California-San Diego, Texas A&M University, University of California-Los Angeles, and University of Wisconsin-Madison—represent a diverse range of prestigious public and private universities that provide world-class engineering education. These schools offer top-ranked programs in specialized fields like electrical engineering, biomedical engineering, and civil engineering, and their graduate programs consistently produce highly skilled engineers who make significant contributions to industry and academia.

The rankings from U.S. News & World Report serve as a benchmark for prospective graduate students and professionals seeking to pursue advanced education in engineering. The universities listed in the 2010 rankings represent the pinnacle of engineering education in the United States, providing students with unparalleled opportunities for research, innovation, and career development. For many students, the choice of graduate engineering school will set the stage for a successful and impactful career in a rapidly evolving and competitive field.

League Tables:

According to the US News & World Report America's Best Graduate Schools guidebook 2010, the top 20 Graduate Engineering Schools are as follows:
1 Massachusetts Institute of Technology
2 Stanford University
3 University of California--Berkeley
4 Georgia Institute of Technology
5 University of Illinois--Urbana-Champaign
6 Carnegie Mellon University
7 California Institute of Technology
7 University of Southern California (Viterbi)
9 University of Michigan--Ann Arbor
10 University of Texas--Austin (Cockrell)
11 Cornell University
12 Purdue University--West Lafayette
12 University of California--San Diego (Jacobs)
14 Texas A&M University--College Station (Look)
14 University of California--Los Angeles (Samueli)
16 University of Wisconsin--Madison
17 University of Maryland--College Park (Clark)
18 Harvard University
18 Princeton University
18 University of California--Santa Barbara

Global Ranking of Top 20 Engineering/Technology Schools:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology is ranked 1st among the world's top 20 engineering schools according to THE - QS World University Rankings 2009:
1 MIT
2 UC Berkeley
3 Stanford
4 Cambridge
5 Caltech
6 University of Tokyo
6 Imperial College London
8 University of Toronto
9 Carnegie Mellon University
10 Eth zurich swiss federal institute of technology
11 Oxford
12 Georgia Institute of Technology
13 Tsinghua University
14 National University of Singapore
15 Delft University of Technology
16 Kyoto University
17 University of British Columbia
18 UCLA
19 Tokyo Institute of Technology
20 Mcgill University