University of New Mexico – School of Engineering

Overview

The University of New Mexico (UNM) School of Engineering is the state’s largest and most prestigious engineering school, offering a comprehensive range of programs across various engineering disciplines. UNM is well-known for its research excellence, particularly in aerospace, civil, and electrical engineering. The university’s strong ties to national laboratories such as Sandia and Los Alamos offer students access to cutting-edge research opportunities and internships. The school’s emphasis on interdisciplinary education prepares students to solve complex global problems in energy, environment, and technology.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #90 for graduate engineering programs in the U.S.
• Number of Students: Over 2,000 engineering students.
• Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Aerospace, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Nuclear, and Chemical Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 96%
• Average SAT Score: 1110–1320
• Average GRE Score: 155 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

• Pete Domenici – Long-serving U.S. Senator and advocate for nuclear energy.
• Ben Luján – U.S. Senator from New Mexico.
• Michael Vigil – Former Chief of International Operations for the DEA.
• Jeff Apodaca – Media executive and former gubernatorial candidate.
• Leroy Hood – Pioneering biotechnologist and inventor of DNA sequencing technology.

UNM’s engineering program is notable for its strong focus on research, particularly in aerospace and electrical engineering, and for offering significant opportunities for hands-on experience through partnerships with national labs and industries.

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New Mexico State University – College of Engineering

Overview

New Mexico State University (NMSU) College of Engineering is renowned for its hands-on, practical approach to engineering education. The school has a strong focus on agricultural, mechanical, and civil engineering, reflecting the region’s needs. NMSU’s engineering graduates are well-prepared to enter industries such as energy, aerospace, and telecommunications. The college’s location in southern New Mexico provides students with opportunities for internships and research, especially in collaboration with White Sands Missile Range and the growing space industry in the state.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #135 for undergraduate engineering programs.
• Number of Students: Approximately 1,800 engineering students.
• Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Mechanical, Civil, Electrical, Aerospace, and Industrial Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 63%
• Average SAT Score: 1030–1260
• Average GRE Score: 153 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

• Hoot Gibson – Former NASA astronaut and pilot.
• Michael L. Connor – U.S. Assistant Secretary of the Army for Civil Works.
• Bruce King – Former Governor of New Mexico.
• Alvy Ray Smith – Co-founder of Pixar Animation Studios.
• Fabian Garcia – Agricultural scientist and pioneer in the chili pepper industry.

NMSU’s engineering programs are well-regarded for their practical focus and strong partnerships with industries in aerospace and defense, making it an excellent choice for students seeking careers in those sectors.

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New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (New Mexico Tech)

Overview

New Mexico Tech, located in Socorro, is a smaller institution known for its strong emphasis on science, engineering, and technology. The school’s engineering programs are rigorous and research-oriented, with strengths in mechanical, petroleum, and materials engineering. New Mexico Tech also offers a unique program in explosives engineering, attracting students interested in mining, defense, and security. Its proximity to research institutions such as the Very Large Array (VLA) and the National Radio Astronomy Observatory (NRAO) provides students with unique research and internship opportunities.

Key Information

• U.S. News Ranking (2024): #115 for undergraduate engineering programs.
• Number of Students: Around 1,300 engineering students.
• Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Petroleum, Mechanical, Electrical, and Chemical Engineering.
• Acceptance Rate: 84%
• Average SAT Score: 1180–1380
• Average GRE Score: 157 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

• George Cowan – Scientist involved in the Manhattan Project.
• Dan Trigg – Innovator in petroleum engineering.
• Natalie Martinez – Chief Engineer at Sandia National Laboratories.
• Luis Figueroa – Pioneer in water resources engineering.
• Kevin Robinson – Co-founder of a prominent renewable energy startup.

New Mexico Tech is a top choice for students interested in fields such as petroleum engineering and explosives, offering unparalleled research facilities and industry connections.