University of Vermont – College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences

Overview

The University of Vermont (UVM) in Burlington offers the most comprehensive and highly regarded engineering program in Vermont. The College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences (CEMS) at UVM provides students with a strong foundation in both the theoretical and practical aspects of engineering. UVM emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and research, with specific strengths in environmental, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering. The college provides hands-on learning opportunities through labs, internships, and research projects. UVM has a strong reputation for its commitment to tackling environmental challenges, making it a great choice for students interested in areas like renewable energy and green technology.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #130 for undergraduate engineering programs.
• Number of Students: Approximately 1,500 engineering students.
• Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Civil, Environmental, Mechanical, Biomedical, and Electrical Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 67%
• Average SAT Score: 1220–1400
• Average GRE Score: 155 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

• Jody Williams – Nobel Peace Prize laureate for her work in banning landmines.
• John Dewey – Renowned philosopher and educational reformer.
• Martha Rainville – First woman to serve as a State Adjutant General in U.S. National Guard history.
• Eben Bayer – Co-founder of Ecovative Design, an eco-friendly materials company.
• Kevin Lepore – Aerospace engineer and project lead at NASA.

UVM’s engineering program is particularly noted for its research and innovation in sustainable technologies and environmental engineering, providing students with the skills to tackle real-world environmental challenges.

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Vermont Technical College

Overview

Vermont Technical College (VTC), located in Randolph, offers a more hands-on, applied engineering education. The college specializes in areas such as civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering technology. Vermont Tech’s engineering programs focus on preparing students for immediate employment in technical fields, with an emphasis on practical learning and internships. VTC has strong ties to local industries, offering students opportunities to gain work experience while they complete their studies. The college is ideal for students seeking a smaller, more focused engineering education with a strong technical foundation.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking: Not nationally ranked for engineering.
• Number of Students: Approximately 1,200 students across all technical programs.
• Degrees Offered: B.S., A.S. in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Architectural Engineering Technology.
• Acceptance Rate: 90%
• Average SAT Score: 1000–1200
• Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.

Notable Alumni

• Michael Ruane – CEO of an engineering consulting firm specializing in sustainable infrastructure.
• Peter Shumlin – Former Governor of Vermont.
• Charles Haldeman – Former CEO of Freddie Mac.
• Sarah Soule – Environmental engineer and advocate for renewable energy.
• Bobby Miller – Leading engineer in Vermont’s green building sector.

Vermont Technical College offers a more applied approach to engineering, ideal for students aiming for hands-on careers in construction, energy, and manufacturing sectors.

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Norwich University – David Crawford School of Engineering

Overview

Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont, is the oldest private military college in the United States and offers strong engineering programs through its David Crawford School of Engineering. While the university is known for its military tradition, its engineering programs are open to both civilian and military students. Norwich’s engineering programs focus on leadership and problem-solving skills, with an emphasis on civil and mechanical engineering. Students at Norwich benefit from small class sizes and personalized attention from faculty, as well as opportunities for internships and leadership development.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking: #75 for undergraduate engineering programs (non-doctorate).
• Number of Students: 600+ engineering students.
• Degrees Offered: B.S. in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Environmental Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 65%
• Average SAT Score: 1110–1290
• Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.

Notable Alumni

• Robert K. Crane – Biochemist and discoverer of the sodium-glucose co-transport mechanism.
• Gordon R. Sullivan – Former U.S. Army Chief of Staff.
• John W. Snow – Former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury.
• Frank A. Dunn – Former CEO of Nortel Networks.
• Edward Hale – Leading structural engineer in U.S. infrastructure projects.

Norwich University provides a solid engineering education with a focus on leadership, making it a top choice for students looking for an engineering degree combined with leadership training.