Brown University – School of Engineering

Overview

Brown University, an Ivy League institution located in Providence, Rhode Island, offers one of the most prestigious engineering programs in the country. The School of Engineering is known for its focus on interdisciplinary research and innovation, offering a wide array of undergraduate and graduate programs across key fields such as biomedical, mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering. Brown encourages students to pursue interdisciplinary research, blending engineering with fields like biology, computer science, and public health. The school emphasizes small class sizes and close collaboration with faculty, which allows students to deeply engage in cutting-edge research.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #38 for undergraduate engineering programs, #53 for graduate engineering programs.
• Number of Students: 600+ engineering students.
• Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Biomedical, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Computer Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 5.1%
• Average SAT Score: 1480–1560
• Average GRE Score: 163 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

• John D. Rockefeller Jr. – Philanthropist and key figure in building Rockefeller Center.
• David Packard – Co-founder of Hewlett-Packard (HP).
• Craig Mello – Nobel Laureate in Physiology or Medicine.
• John Maeda – Graphic designer and technologist, former President of the Rhode Island School of Design.
• James H. Anderson – Assistant Secretary of Defense for Strategy, Plans, and Capabilities.

Brown’s engineering programs stand out for their interdisciplinary approach, especially in areas like biomedical and environmental engineering, making it a great option for students seeking a broad, research-focused education.

---

University of Rhode Island – College of Engineering

Overview

The University of Rhode Island (URI) offers a strong engineering program known for its practical approach and focus on innovation. URI’s College of Engineering is particularly known for its contributions to ocean engineering, given Rhode Island’s coastal location. The school offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs, with strengths in electrical, civil, chemical, and ocean engineering. URI is home to several state-of-the-art research facilities, including labs dedicated to renewable energy, environmental sustainability, and advanced materials. The school provides numerous internship opportunities and strong industry connections, particularly in maritime and defense industries.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #132 for undergraduate engineering programs.
• Number of Students: 2,400+ engineering students.
• Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, and Ocean Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 76%
• Average SAT Score: 1110–1280
• Average GRE Score: 155 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

• Christiane Amanpour – Chief International Anchor for CNN (studied journalism, but notable alum).
• Michael Fascitelli – Real estate investor and former CEO of Vornado Realty Trust.
• Paul D. Miller (DJ Spooky) – Artist and writer known for blending art and technology.
• John O. Pastore – Former U.S. Senator from Rhode Island.
• Nicole Alexander-Scott – Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health.

URI’s College of Engineering is particularly renowned for its programs in ocean and environmental engineering, making it an ideal choice for students interested in these fields.

---

Roger Williams University – School of Engineering, Computing, and Construction Management

Overview

Roger Williams University (RWU), located in Bristol, Rhode Island, offers specialized engineering programs through its School of Engineering, Computing, and Construction Management. RWU’s engineering programs focus on providing students with a hands-on education, with strengths in civil, mechanical, and computer engineering. The university emphasizes small class sizes and personalized instruction, ensuring that students receive direct mentorship from faculty. RWU also has a strong focus on sustainability and green technologies, which are integrated into the engineering curriculum, making it a great choice for students interested in environmental and civil engineering.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): Not ranked nationally for engineering.
• Number of Students: Approximately 1,200 students in engineering and computing fields.
• Degrees Offered: B.S. in Civil, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering, and Construction Management.
• Acceptance Rate: 85%
• Average SAT Score: 1080–1250
• Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.

Notable Alumni

• John Hazard – CEO of video game company Bignox.
• David Valzania – Renowned civil engineer specializing in environmental projects.
• Beverly Scott – Public transportation executive and former CEO of several U.S. transit systems.
• Brett Smiley – Mayor of Providence.
• Mark Patinkin – Columnist and author.

Roger Williams University stands out for its practical approach to engineering, focusing on green technology and civil engineering, which is ideal for students aiming for hands-on, career-focused education.

---

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) – Department of Industrial Design

Overview

The Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) is one of the leading art and design schools globally, offering a unique approach to engineering-related fields through its Department of Industrial Design. While RISD is primarily an art and design school, its industrial design program blends engineering principles with creativity, offering students a unique opportunity to explore product design, materials, and innovation. Students work on real-world design challenges, often collaborating with industry partners, and are encouraged to develop products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking: Not ranked for traditional engineering.
• Number of Students: Approximately 500 students in industrial design.
• Degrees Offered: BFA and MFA in Industrial Design.
• Acceptance Rate: 25%
• Average SAT Score: 1300–1450
• Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.

Notable Alumni

• James Dyson – Inventor and founder of Dyson, known for innovative vacuum cleaners and hand dryers.
• Jenny Holzer – Conceptual artist known for her use of text in public spaces.
• Charles Pollock – Furniture designer known for his work with steel and leather.
• Rosanne Somerson – Designer and President of RISD.
• Danielle Aubert – Graphic designer and associate professor at Wayne State University.

RISD’s industrial design program is ideal for students who want to blend engineering, creativity, and innovation to design products that are both functional and artistic.