Top Engineering Schools in Connecticut
Yale University – School of Engineering & Applied Science
Overview
Yale University, a prestigious Ivy League institution, offers a comprehensive School of Engineering & Applied Science with research and academic excellence across fields like biomedical, chemical, environmental, and mechanical engineering. Yale is renowned for its interdisciplinary approach, allowing students to blend engineering with sciences, humanities, and entrepreneurship. The program emphasizes both fundamental research and practical applications, ensuring that students are well-prepared for leadership roles in academia and industry.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #38 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: 652 (Engineering students, 2022)
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Biomedical, Chemical, Environmental, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 5%
- Average SAT Score: 1450–1560
- Average GRE Score: 165 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- David Lee – Nobel Prize in Physics.
- Vikram Pandit – Former CEO of Citigroup.
- Daniel Yergin – Pulitzer Prize-winning author and energy expert.
- Frances Arnold – Nobel Prize in Chemistry.
- Robert K. Jarvik – Inventor of the artificial heart.
Yale’s engineering program focuses heavily on innovation and research, offering students opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects in robotics, artificial intelligence, and sustainable technologies.
University of Connecticut (UConn) – School of Engineering
Overview
The University of Connecticut’s School of Engineering is a prominent public institution known for its strong focus on research and innovation in various fields, including materials science, mechanical, civil, and biomedical engineering. UConn has established partnerships with leading companies like Pratt & Whitney and Electric Boat, providing students with excellent internship and job placement opportunities. The school is committed to interdisciplinary learning and offers a range of undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #63 for graduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: 1,131 (Engineering students, 2022)
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Computer, and Chemical Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 56%
- Average SAT Score: 1210–1420
- Average GRE Score: 160 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- David M. Lee – Nobel Laureate in Physics.
- Brian A. Deese – Former Director of the National Economic Council.
- George Jepsen – Former Connecticut Attorney General.
- Larry McHugh – Chairman of the Board of Regents for Higher Education in Connecticut.
- Karen O’Donnell – Aerospace engineer at Boeing.
UConn’s engineering school is well known for its contributions to the aerospace, defense, and energy sectors, and its graduates are sought after by top employers in these industries.
University of New Haven – Tagliatela College of Engineering
Overview
The University of New Haven’s Tagliatela College of Engineering offers a broad range of engineering programs with a particular focus on experiential learning. The college emphasizes hands-on experience through projects, internships, and research opportunities. New Haven’s close ties with industries, particularly in cybersecurity, engineering management, and mechanical engineering, offer students practical experiences that complement their academic training.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #94 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: 299 (Engineering students, 2022)
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S. in Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, and Systems Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 83%
- Average SAT Score: 1120–1300
- Average GRE Score: 155 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- Don Garber – Commissioner of Major League Soccer.
- Chaz Davis – Paralympic athlete.
- Sandra Pianalto – Former President of the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland.
- Mark M. Hanna – Renowned cybersecurity expert.
- Ken Marenus – Former President of the Society of Cosmetic Chemists.
With its strong emphasis on real-world applications and internships, the University of New Haven has built a reputation for producing graduates who are ready to excel in their engineering careers immediately upon graduation.
University of Hartford – College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture
Overview
The University of Hartford’s College of Engineering, Technology, and Architecture is known for its focus on applied research and technological innovation. The school offers a variety of programs, including civil, biomedical, and mechanical engineering. Its state-of-the-art labs and research centers provide students with opportunities to work on industry-relevant projects. Hartford’s engineering programs emphasize practical experience through capstone projects and collaborations with industry partners.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #182 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: 221 (Engineering students, 2022)
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S. in Civil, Biomedical, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 77%
- Average SAT Score: 1100–1270
- Average GRE Score: 153 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- Abby Wambach – Former soccer player and Olympic gold medalist.
- Kevin Ollie – Former NBA player and coach.
- Robert Ludlum – Bestselling author of the Jason Bourne series.
- David Cordani – CEO of Cigna Corporation.
- Marion E. Hare – Renowned architect and engineer.
Hartford’s engineering programs are particularly noted for their strong focus on architectural engineering, biomedical engineering, and sustainable design.
Fairfield University – School of Engineering
Overview
Fairfield University’s School of Engineering offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs focused on developing leaders in engineering fields such as mechanical, electrical, and software engineering. Fairfield emphasizes small class sizes, personalized education, and hands-on experience through industry partnerships. The school integrates a liberal arts education, providing students with critical thinking skills and ethical considerations alongside technical expertise.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #155 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: 105 (Engineering students, 2022)
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S. in Mechanical, Electrical, and Software Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 52%
- Average SAT Score: 1305–1420
- Average GRE Score: 160 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- Julius S. Scott – Renowned historian and professor.
- Paul Marcarelli – Actor, known for his role in Verizon commercials.
- Ellen Alemany – Chairwoman and CEO of CIT Group.
- James Comey – Former FBI Director.
- Raymond Schmitt – Senior Engineer at Raytheon Technologies.
Fairfield’s engineering school provides a strong foundation in both the technical and ethical aspects of engineering, ensuring that its graduates are prepared to address complex societal challenges.