Top Engineering Schools in Georgia
1. Georgia Institute of Technology – College of Engineering
Overview
Georgia Institute of Technology, commonly known as Georgia Tech, is one of the leading engineering schools in the world. Located in Atlanta, Georgia Tech’s College of Engineering consistently ranks among the top engineering schools in the nation. Founded in 1885, Georgia Tech is renowned for its focus on innovation, research, and entrepreneurship, with strong programs across all major engineering disciplines. The college is divided into multiple specialized schools, such as aerospace, chemical, civil, and mechanical engineering. Georgia Tech’s research output is significant, particularly in areas like artificial intelligence, robotics, nanotechnology, and cybersecurity. The institution’s strong ties with industry leaders in technology, aerospace, and manufacturing make it an excellent hub for internships and post-graduation employment.
U.S. News Ranking
- Rank: #4 in Best Engineering Schools (Graduate) by U.S. News & World Report (2024).
Number of Students
- Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 9,000 students.
- Graduate Enrollment: Around 5,500 students.
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degrees in Aerospace, Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Environmental, Industrial, Materials, Mechanical, and Nuclear Engineering.
- Graduate: Master’s and PhD programs in various engineering disciplines.
Acceptance Rate
- Undergraduate Acceptance Rate: 16%
- Graduate Acceptance Rate: 25%
Average GRE Score (Graduate)
- Quantitative: 162–165
- Verbal: 155–160
Famous Alumni
- Jimmy Carter – 39th President of the United States, Nobel Peace Prize recipient.
- Mike Duke – Former CEO of Walmart.
- David Dorman – Former Chairman and CEO of AT&T Corporation.
- Chris Klaus – Founder of Internet Security Systems (acquired by IBM).
- Kathryn C. Thornton – Former NASA astronaut, space shuttle veteran.
2. University of Georgia – College of Engineering
Overview
The University of Georgia (UGA) offers an innovative and growing engineering program through its College of Engineering. While UGA is traditionally known for its agricultural programs, the College of Engineering has quickly established itself as a key player in Georgia’s engineering education landscape. Established in 2012, UGA’s College of Engineering is known for its interdisciplinary approach, allowing students to work across various fields such as bioengineering, environmental sustainability, and robotics. The college also emphasizes entrepreneurship and public service, with strong ties to industry leaders in Georgia. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories, fostering hands-on learning and research opportunities in fields such as renewable energy, biomedicine, and advanced materials.
U.S. News Ranking
- Rank: #119 in Best Engineering Schools (Graduate) by U.S. News & World Report (2024).
Number of Students
- Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 2,400 students.
- Graduate Enrollment: Around 350 students.
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degrees in Agricultural, Biochemical, Biological, Civil, Computer Systems, Electrical, Environmental, and Mechanical Engineering.
- Graduate: Master’s and PhD programs in various engineering fields.
Acceptance Rate
- Undergraduate Acceptance Rate: 48%
- Graduate Acceptance Rate: 35-40%
Average GRE Score (Graduate)
- Quantitative: 155–160
- Verbal: 150–155
Famous Alumni
- Deborah Roberts – Emmy Award-winning ABC News correspondent.
- Alton Brown – Celebrity chef, television personality, and author.
- Hamilton Jordan – Former White House Chief of Staff for President Jimmy Carter.
- Johnny Isakson – Former U.S. Senator from Georgia.
- Maria Taylor – Sports journalist and broadcaster at NBC.
3. Kennesaw State University – Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology
Overview
Kennesaw State University (KSU), located in the greater Atlanta metropolitan area, offers a comprehensive engineering education through its Southern Polytechnic College of Engineering and Engineering Technology. The college provides a range of engineering programs with a strong emphasis on hands-on learning and industry partnerships. Known for its affordability and accessibility, KSU has seen rapid growth in its engineering programs, particularly in fields like mechatronics, electrical engineering, and civil engineering. The university’s close ties to local industries provide students with internship opportunities and practical experience in sectors such as automotive, aerospace, and construction. KSU’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its numerous student-led research projects and collaborations with companies in Georgia’s technology corridor.
U.S. News Ranking
- Rank: #164 in Best Engineering Schools (Graduate) by U.S. News & World Report (2024).
Number of Students
- Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 4,000 students.
- Graduate Enrollment: Around 500 students.
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degrees in Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Software, and Industrial Engineering.
- Graduate: Master’s degrees in Engineering Management, Systems Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.
Acceptance Rate
- Undergraduate Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Graduate Acceptance Rate: 50%
Average GRE Score (Graduate)
- Quantitative: 150–155
- Verbal: 145–150
Famous Alumni
- Dan Cathy – CEO of Chick-fil-A.
- Justin Smiley – Former NFL player for the San Francisco 49ers.
- Travis Bell – CEO of The Partnership Group, a marketing and branding firm.
- Gus Williams – Former NBA player and All-Star guard.
- Jennifer Biddall – Senior engineer at Southern Company Gas.
4. Mercer University – School of Engineering
Overview
Mercer University, located in Macon, Georgia, offers a well-regarded engineering program through its School of Engineering. Established in 1985, Mercer’s engineering school is known for its personalized approach to education, with small class sizes and close faculty-student interactions. Mercer emphasizes a hands-on, design-oriented curriculum that prepares students for both industry and advanced studies. The School of Engineering offers strong programs in biomedical, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering. Mercer’s commitment to service and leadership is reflected in its programs that encourage students to solve real-world engineering problems, particularly in underserved communities. The university also has strong connections with local industries and government agencies, providing students with ample opportunities for internships and cooperative education programs.
U.S. News Ranking
- Rank: #111 in Best Engineering Schools (Graduate) by U.S. News & World Report (2024).
Number of Students
- Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 700 students.
- Graduate Enrollment: Around 150 students.
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degrees in Biomedical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Environmental, and Mechanical Engineering.
- Graduate: Master’s degrees in Engineering, Environmental Engineering, and Engineering Management.
Acceptance Rate
- Undergraduate Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Graduate Acceptance Rate: 40%
Average GRE Score (Graduate)
- Quantitative: 150–155
- Verbal: 145–150
Famous Alumni
- Sam Nunn – Former U.S. Senator, co-founder of the Nuclear Threat Initiative.
- Nancy Grace – Legal commentator and former prosecutor, host of Nancy Grace.
- William Harris – President and CEO of Space Center Houston.
- Jay Sekulow – Chief Counsel for the American Center for Law & Justice, legal advocate.
- Bobby Jones – Golf legend, co-founder of the Masters Tournament.
5. Georgia Southern University – Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing
Overview
Georgia Southern University offers a broad array of engineering programs through its Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering and Computing. Located in Statesboro, Georgia, the college provides students with a hands-on, practical education in fields like civil, electrical, mechanical, and manufacturing engineering. Georgia Southern is particularly known for its strong focus on applied research, with many programs aimed at addressing real-world problems in collaboration with local industries. The university has a robust internship and co-op program that connects students with employers in sectors such as manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive. With its emphasis on innovation and experiential learning, Georgia Southern’s engineering graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce or pursue advanced degrees.
U.S. News Ranking
- Rank: #179 in Best Engineering Schools (Graduate) by U.S. News & World Report (2024).
Number of Students
- Undergraduate Enrollment: Approximately 2,500 students.
- Graduate Enrollment: Around 250 students.
Degrees Offered
- Undergraduate: Bachelor’s degrees in Civil, Computer, Electrical, Manufacturing, and Mechanical Engineering.
- Graduate: Master’s degrees in Applied Engineering, Civil Engineering, and Electrical Engineering.
Acceptance Rate
- Undergraduate Acceptance Rate: 68%
- Graduate Acceptance Rate: 45%
Average GRE Score (Graduate)
- Quantitative: 150–155
- Verbal: 145–150
Famous Alumni
- Luke Bryan – Country music star and award-winning singer-songwriter.
- Adrian Peterson – Former NFL running back, Georgia Southern’s all-time leading rusher.
- Chris Collins – Senior engineer at Gulfstream Aerospace.
- Matt Breida – NFL running back for the New York Giants.
- Hank Johnson – U.S. Congressman for Georgia’s 4th District.