Arizona State University – Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering

Overview

Arizona State University’s Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering is one of the largest engineering programs in the United States, comprising seven schools that span key disciplines such as mechanical, aerospace, and electrical engineering. The program is deeply integrated with cutting-edge research centers focused on sustainability, cybersecurity, and space exploration, ensuring students gain real-world problem-solving experience. The school places a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning, collaboration, and innovation. ASU is known for fostering a forward-thinking environment that promotes entrepreneurship and leadership in engineering.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024):
  • Undergraduate: #35
  • Graduate: #45
• Number of Students:
  • Undergraduate: 19,500+
  • Graduate: 6,500+
• Degrees Offered:
  • B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in fields like Aerospace, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Environmental Engineering, and more.
• Acceptance Rate:
  • Undergraduate: 88%
  • Graduate: 36%
• Average SAT Score: 1210–1400
• Average GRE Score: 160 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

1. Gregory Hayes – CEO of Raytheon Technologies.
2. Debbie Sterling – Founder of GoldieBlox, an engineering-focused toy company.
3. Barbara Barrett – Former U.S. Secretary of the Air Force.
4. J. Craig Venter – Pioneer in human genome research.
5. Jerry Colangelo – NBA Hall of Famer and former Phoenix Suns owner.

---

University of Arizona – College of Engineering

Overview

The University of Arizona’s College of Engineering, located in Tucson, provides an immersive engineering experience through its robust research programs and industry partnerships. The college excels in aerospace, biosystems, and mining engineering, areas crucial to the state’s economic development. The University of Arizona is recognized for its contributions to space exploration and defense research, with many of its graduates finding success in these sectors. Students benefit from hands-on experiences in advanced labs and research facilities, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of the engineering workforce.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024):
  • Undergraduate: #53
  • Graduate: #53
• Number of Students:
  • Undergraduate: 3,300+
  • Graduate: 1,000+
• Degrees Offered:
  • B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in fields like Aerospace, Civil, Environmental, and Mining Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate:
  • Undergraduate: 85%
  • Graduate: 40%
• Average SAT Score: 1200–1380
• Average GRE Score: 157 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

1. Garret Reisman – Former NASA astronaut.
2. Robert C. Robbins – President of the University of Arizona.
3. John P. Schaefer – Former UA President and renowned chemist.
4. Diane Humetewa – U.S. federal judge, the first Native American woman in this role.
5. Craig M. Mullaney – Author and former U.S. Army officer.

---

Northern Arizona University – College of Engineering, Informatics, and Applied Sciences

Overview

Northern Arizona University (NAU) in Flagstaff offers a growing engineering school that integrates engineering disciplines with informatics and applied sciences. The smaller student population at NAU allows for more personalized attention, and the college is particularly focused on sustainability and the environment, reflecting the university’s geographical location in the scenic Southwest. NAU’s engineering program is well-regarded for its hands-on learning opportunities and its focus on preparing students for careers in environmental and energy-related fields.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #244
• Number of Students:
  • Undergraduate: 1,500+
  • Graduate: 500+
• Degrees Offered:
  • B.S., M.S. in Civil, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering, and Informatics.
• Acceptance Rate:
  • Undergraduate: 82%
  • Graduate: 48%
• Average SAT Score: 1080–1260
• Average GRE Score: 155 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

1. Frank Luke Jr. – World War I fighter ace, Medal of Honor recipient.
2. Raymond G. Murphy – Medal of Honor recipient, U.S. Marine.
3. Jason Thompson – Former NFL player.
4. Kelly Cordes – Professional climber and author.
5. Larry Fitzgerald – NFL player and philanthropist.

---

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University – Prescott

Overview

Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University’s Prescott campus is known globally for its focus on aviation and aerospace engineering. It is a leader in preparing engineers for careers in aerospace, defense, and aviation industries. With advanced simulation labs and close collaborations with government agencies, Embry-Riddle provides students with an intensive, hands-on education in engineering, particularly in aerospace and electrical engineering. The school is regularly ranked among the top non-doctoral schools for aerospace engineering.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #1 for Aerospace Engineering (non-doctorate granting schools)
• Number of Students:
  • Undergraduate: 2,000+
  • Graduate: 500+
• Degrees Offered:
  • B.S., M.S. in Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate:
  • Undergraduate: 67%
  • Graduate: 41%
• Average SAT Score: 1200–1350
• Average GRE Score: 160 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

1. Alvin Drew – NASA astronaut and aerospace engineer.
2. Daniel Tani – NASA astronaut and mission specialist.
3. Wally Funk – Aviation pioneer and one of the Mercury 13.
4. Michael Durant – Author and Black Hawk pilot.
5. Patricia Hynes – Director of the New Mexico Space Grant Consortium.

---

Grand Canyon University – College of Science, Engineering, and Technology

Overview

Grand Canyon University (GCU), located in Phoenix, offers engineering programs under its College of Science, Engineering, and Technology. GCU’s programs are designed to provide students with a practical, hands-on approach to learning in fields such as biomedical and mechanical engineering. GCU has made a name for itself through its state-of-the-art facilities and strong connections to the local technology industry, making it a solid choice for students seeking a career in engineering and technology in Arizona’s booming tech sector.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking: Not nationally ranked for engineering.
• Number of Students:
  • Undergraduate: 1,800+
  • Graduate: 200+
• Degrees Offered:
  • B.S. in Biomedical, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate:
  • Undergraduate: 81%
  • Graduate: Not widely reported.
• Average SAT Score: 1100–1250
• Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.

Notable Alumni

1. Antoinette Braybrook – CEO of Djirra, an Australian Aboriginal women’s organization.
2. Ted Vogt – Former Arizona State Representative.
3. Derrick Hall – President and CEO of the Arizona Diamondbacks.
4. Michael Hunter – Arizona State Attorney General.
5. Jerry Colangelo – Former owner of the Phoenix Suns and Arizona Diamondbacks.