Top Engineering Schools in Indiana
Purdue University – College of Engineering
Overview
Purdue University’s College of Engineering, located in West Lafayette, is consistently ranked among the top engineering schools in the nation. Offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs, Purdue excels in areas such as aerospace, mechanical, and electrical engineering. The school is renowned for its research output and close ties with industries like aerospace, manufacturing, and IT. Purdue’s faculty are highly distinguished, and its engineering programs emphasize both practical skills and academic research.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #9 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: 11,000+ in undergraduate and graduate programs combined.
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Aerospace, Mechanical, Civil, Chemical, Electrical, and more.
- Acceptance Rate: 69%
- Average SAT Score: 1260–1470
- Average GRE Score: 160 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- Neil Armstrong – First person to walk on the moon, former NASA astronaut.
- Eugene Cernan – Last astronaut to walk on the moon.
- George Peppard – Actor and aerospace engineer.
- Charles F. Bolden – Former NASA administrator.
- Amelia Earhart – Aviation pioneer (worked at Purdue as a career counselor for women).
Purdue’s engineering programs are highly competitive and recognized globally for their excellence in research and innovation.
University of Notre Dame – College of Engineering
Overview
The University of Notre Dame’s College of Engineering offers a blend of cutting-edge research and a liberal arts education. Known for its small class sizes and strong faculty, Notre Dame’s engineering programs focus on fields such as computer science, civil engineering, and environmental sustainability. The school is also known for its research contributions in energy systems, biomaterials, and nanotechnology, offering a unique interdisciplinary approach to engineering education.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #16 for undergraduate engineering programs.
- Number of Students: 1,700+
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Chemical, and Computer Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 19%
- Average SAT Score: 1410–1550
- Average GRE Score: 162 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- Herbert W. Boyer – Co-founder of Genentech, a biotech pioneer.
- George Strait – Country music star and engineering major.
- Nick Kroll – Comedian and actor, although not an engineer, a notable alumnus.
- Condoleezza Rice – Former U.S. Secretary of State (not engineering but a notable alumna).
- Robert A. Mundell – Nobel laureate in economics.
Notre Dame’s engineering programs stand out for their emphasis on ethics, interdisciplinary research, and global problem-solving.
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology
Overview
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, located in Terre Haute, is often ranked as one of the top engineering schools for undergraduate education in the U.S. The institution focuses on providing hands-on engineering experience, particularly in fields like mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering. Rose-Hulman is unique for its intimate class sizes and personalized attention, offering an exceptional student-to-faculty ratio.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking (2024): #1 for undergraduate engineering programs (non-Ph.D. granting schools).
- Number of Students: Around 2,000.
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S. in Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Biomedical, and Software Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 74%
- Average SAT Score: 1320–1460
- Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.
Notable Alumni
- Jim Umpleby – CEO of Caterpillar Inc.
- Bob Jacobs – NASA’s Deputy Associate Administrator for Communications.
- Alan Ho – Co-founder of Inktomi Corporation, an early internet search company.
- Matt Branam – Former CEO of Ivy Tech Community College.
- John P. Calamos – Founder and CEO of Calamos Investments.
Rose-Hulman’s engineering graduates are highly sought after by industries ranging from aerospace to software development.
Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) – School of Engineering and Technology
Overview
IUPUI offers a wide range of engineering and technology programs, with a strong focus on applied research and industry collaboration. Located in the state’s capital, Indianapolis, IUPUI is known for its emphasis on mechanical, civil, and biomedical engineering. The university’s close proximity to major industries and healthcare facilities gives students extensive opportunities for internships and cooperative learning experiences.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking: Ranked for both engineering and computer science programs.
- Number of Students: 3,000+ in engineering programs.
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Biomedical, Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, and Motorsports Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 81%
- Average SAT Score: 1090–1290
- Average GRE Score: 155 (Quantitative)
Notable Alumni
- Tony Kanaan – IndyCar Series driver and Indianapolis 500 champion.
- Dan Quayle – Former Vice President of the United States.
- Sarah Fisher – Professional racing driver and team owner.
- John P. Calamos – Founder of Calamos Investments.
- Mitch Daniels – Former Governor of Indiana, currently Purdue University President.
IUPUI’s School of Engineering and Technology is a top choice for students interested in applied engineering, motorsports, and biomedical technology.
Indiana State University – College of Technology
Overview
Indiana State University’s College of Technology offers a diverse array of engineering and technology programs, focusing on areas like mechanical engineering technology, civil engineering technology, and automotive engineering. The university emphasizes hands-on experience through internships, industry projects, and laboratory work. With a strong focus on practical education, Indiana State prepares students for immediate entry into the workforce.
Key Information
- U.S. News Ranking: Not ranked nationally for engineering.
- Number of Students: Approximately 700 engineering students.
- Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S. in Mechanical Engineering Technology, Civil Engineering Technology, and Automotive Engineering.
- Acceptance Rate: 90%
- Average SAT Score: 1000–1220
- Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.
Notable Alumni
- Larry Bird – NBA Hall of Famer and former Boston Celtics executive (not in engineering, but notable).
- Thomas H. Taliaferro – Pioneering engineer and civil rights activist.
- Brian Mahern – Former Indiana State Senator and engineer.
- Chris Schuler – Automotive engineer and industry leader.
- David Letterman – Former late-night TV host (studied broadcasting but notable).
Indiana State offers a practical, hands-on approach to engineering education, making it ideal for students looking for immediate career entry into technical fields.