Top Engineering Schools in Tennessee

Top Engineering Schools in Tennessee

Vanderbilt University – School of Engineering

Overview

Vanderbilt University, located in Nashville, offers one of the most prestigious engineering programs in the country. The School of Engineering emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, research, and innovation, providing students with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research across various disciplines, such as biomedical, mechanical, civil, and electrical engineering. Vanderbilt’s engineering students benefit from the university’s partnerships with medical and research institutions, enhancing their learning and career prospects.

Key Information

  • U.S. News Ranking (2024): #36 for undergraduate engineering programs.
  • Number of Students: Approximately 1,300 engineering students.
  • Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Biomedical, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Chemical Engineering.
  • Acceptance Rate: 12%
  • Average SAT Score: 1460–1560
  • Average GRE Score: 163 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

  • Alfred Blalock – Surgeon and innovator in heart surgery.
  • James Dickey – Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist and poet.
  • George Barrett – Former CEO of Cardinal Health.
  • Jules White – Director and producer of The Three Stooges.
  • Ann Moore – Former CEO of Time Inc.

University of Tennessee, Knoxville – Tickle College of Engineering

Overview

The Tickle College of Engineering at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (UTK) is one of the largest and most respected engineering schools in the state. UTK offers a comprehensive range of engineering programs and emphasizes research in areas like aerospace, nuclear, and biomedical engineering. The university collaborates closely with Oak Ridge National Laboratory, providing students with opportunities to participate in groundbreaking research and gain practical experience.

Key Information

  • U.S. News Ranking (2024): #63 for undergraduate engineering programs.
  • Number of Students: Approximately 4,500 engineering students.
  • Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Aerospace, Biomedical, Civil, Electrical, Industrial, and Mechanical Engineering.
  • Acceptance Rate: 78%
  • Average SAT Score: 1230–1410
  • Average GRE Score: 160 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

  • John Daniel – Former President of the American Nuclear Society.
  • Dale Brown – Former NBA Coach.
  • Jocelyn Bell Burnell – Astrophysicist and discoverer of pulsars.
  • Jim Haslam – Founder of Pilot Corporation.
  • Charles McMillan – Director of Los Alamos National Laboratory.

Tennessee Technological University (Tennessee Tech) – College of Engineering

Overview

Tennessee Tech, located in Cookeville, has a strong focus on engineering and technology. Its College of Engineering is known for producing engineers with practical skills in areas such as civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. Tennessee Tech emphasizes hands-on learning and offers students opportunities for internships and co-op programs, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for careers in industry.

Key Information

  • U.S. News Ranking (2024): #140 for undergraduate engineering programs.
  • Number of Students: Approximately 2,300 engineering students.
  • Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, and Computer Engineering.
  • Acceptance Rate: 79%
  • Average SAT Score: 1070–1260
  • Average GRE Score: 157 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

  • Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger – NASA astronaut.
  • Larry Elmore – Renowned fantasy artist.
  • Robert Nabors – Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy under President Obama.
  • Bill Landry – TV personality and producer of The Heartland Series.
  • Jack Stites – Industrial executive and former President of Automation Service.

University of Memphis – Herff College of Engineering

Overview

The Herff College of Engineering at the University of Memphis offers a practical, career-oriented approach to engineering education. With programs in biomedical, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering, the college focuses on real-world problem-solving and internships. The college is known for its connections to local industries in the healthcare and logistics sectors, which provide students with ample opportunities to apply their engineering skills.

Key Information

  • U.S. News Ranking (2024): #183 for undergraduate engineering programs.
  • Number of Students: Approximately 1,800 engineering students.
  • Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Biomedical, and Computer Engineering.
  • Acceptance Rate: 85%
  • Average SAT Score: 1090–1250
  • Average GRE Score: 155 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

  • Ralph Hatley – Innovator in telecommunications.
  • Clarence Saunders – Founder of Piggly Wiggly, the first self-service grocery store.
  • Gary Parrish – National sports columnist.
  • Henry Turley – Urban developer of Memphis.
  • Tommy West – College football coach.

Tennessee State University – College of Engineering

Overview

Tennessee State University (TSU), a historically Black university located in Nashville, offers strong programs in civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering. TSU emphasizes diversity and inclusion, providing students with opportunities to engage in research and internships in various industries. TSU’s College of Engineering has a robust research program, particularly in transportation and infrastructure, and collaborates with government agencies and private companies.

Key Information

  • U.S. News Ranking (2024): #195–210 for undergraduate engineering programs.
  • Number of Students: Approximately 900 engineering students.
  • Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S. in Civil, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering.
  • Acceptance Rate: 58%
  • Average SAT Score: 940–1150
  • Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.

Notable Alumni

  • Oprah Winfrey – Media mogul (attended, but not in engineering).
  • Robert Covington – NBA player.
  • Ralph Boston – Olympic gold medalist in track and field.
  • Tina Lifford – Actress.
  • Dr. Levi Watkins Jr. – Cardiovascular surgeon and pioneer in heart defibrillator surgery.
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