Top Engineering Schools in Florida
University of Florida – Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering
Overview
The Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering at the University of Florida (UF) is one of the most prestigious engineering schools in the Southeast. Known for its extensive research programs and industry partnerships, UF’s engineering programs are designed to prepare students for real-world challenges. The college offers a wide range of disciplines, including aerospace, biomedical, mechanical, and computer engineering. UF engineers have access to cutting-edge research labs, industry collaborations, and entrepreneurial opportunities through programs like the Gator Engineering Innovation Institute.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #20 for graduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: 8,200+ (Undergraduate and graduate)
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Aerospace, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Biomedical Engineering, among others.
- Acceptance Rate: 30%
- Average SAT Score: 1370–1490
- Average GRE Score: 160 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- Stephen O’Connell – Former Chief Justice of the Florida Supreme Court.
- David Brown – NASA astronaut and U.S. Navy officer.
- Richard Smalley – Nobel Prize winner in Chemistry.
- Gary Michelson – Orthopedic surgeon and inventor.
- Ernest R. Graham – Co-founder of Miami International Airport.
UF’s engineering graduates go on to become leaders in their fields, working in sectors ranging from aerospace to healthcare technology.
University of Central Florida – College of Engineering and Computer Science
Overview
The University of Central Florida (UCF) is known for its comprehensive engineering programs and strong connections to the aerospace, defense, and energy sectors. With a robust emphasis on innovation and entrepreneurship, UCF offers students opportunities to work on cutting-edge research projects and internships. Located in Orlando, UCF has strong industry ties with organizations like NASA, Lockheed Martin, and Siemens, allowing students to gain valuable hands-on experience before graduation.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #70 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: 2,580+ (Undergraduate and graduate)
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Aerospace, Electrical, Mechanical, and Computer Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 45%
- Average SAT Score: 1250–1370
- Average GRE Score: 157 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- John Young – NASA astronaut and commander of Apollo 16.
- Anil Menon – SpaceX Medical Director and astronaut candidate.
- Steve Crisafulli – Former Speaker of the Florida House of Representatives.
- Michelle Akers – U.S. soccer star and Olympic gold medalist.
- Bruce Wilcox – AI expert and co-developer of ChatScript.
UCF’s College of Engineering and Computer Science is well-known for its focus on cybersecurity, AI, and space-related research, making it a leading institution for students seeking careers in cutting-edge fields.
Florida International University – College of Engineering and Computing
Overview
Florida International University (FIU) offers an engineering program that is strongly oriented toward solving real-world problems, particularly in the fields of environmental sustainability and urban infrastructure. Located in Miami, FIU’s College of Engineering and Computing is known for fostering diversity and inclusion in STEM fields. Students benefit from the university’s extensive research initiatives, industry partnerships, and involvement in projects that tackle issues like smart cities, climate change, and cybersecurity.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #118 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: 1,522+ (Engineering students)
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Environmental, and Computer Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 58%
- Average SAT Score: 1150–1300
- Average GRE Score: 155 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- David Lawrence Jr. – Founder of The Children’s Movement of Florida.
- Raul Garcia – Microsoft Corporation Director.
- Manny Medina – Founder of Terremark Worldwide.
- Alfredo Ortega – CEO of LAN Airlines.
- Carlos Hernandez – CFO of General Electric Global Operations.
FIU is a leader in smart infrastructure and environmental research, making it a hub for students interested in using technology to address global challenges.
University of South Florida – College of Engineering
Overview
The University of South Florida (USF) in Tampa is home to one of the fastest-growing engineering programs in the Southeastern U.S. USF is particularly known for its strengths in biomedical and environmental engineering, as well as its research on transportation and sustainability. The college works closely with the healthcare and aerospace industries, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research and internships.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #73 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: 2,340+ (Undergraduate and graduate)
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Biomedical, and Environmental Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 48%
- Average SAT Score: 1200–1340
- Average GRE Score: 156 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- Pam Iorio – Former Mayor of Tampa.
- Jeff Vinik – Owner of the Tampa Bay Lightning.
- Charlie Crist – Former Governor of Florida.
- José Luis Prado – CEO of Evans Food Group.
- Ken Eriksen – Head Coach of U.S. Women’s National Softball Team.
USF’s College of Engineering is recognized for its contributions to biomedical research, with many graduates moving into high-profile roles in healthcare and public infrastructure.
Florida Polytechnic University
Overview
Florida Polytechnic University (Florida Poly) is Florida’s only public university focused entirely on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) disciplines. Established in 2012, Florida Poly has rapidly gained recognition for its specialized focus on engineering and its strong industry partnerships. The university’s emphasis on small class sizes and hands-on learning allows for personalized education and extensive internship opportunities, particularly in fields such as electrical engineering and cybersecurity.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): Top 20 public engineering programs without a Ph.D.
- Number of Students: 1,500+
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S. in Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, and Computer Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 50%
- Average SAT Score: 1230–1340
Notable Alumni
- Jared Olson – Senior Engineer at Google.
- Lisa Bessman – Robotics engineer at Boston Dynamics.
- Juan Carlos Rubio – CEO of EcoTech Innovations.
- Emma Thompson – Cybersecurity Analyst at Lockheed Martin.
- Alexis Soto – Founder of GreenWave Energy Solutions.
Florida Poly’s specialized focus and commitment to hands-on learning make it an excellent option for students aiming to excel in cutting-edge technology and engineering fields.