Top Engineering Schools in Utah

Top Engineering Schools in Utah

University of Utah – College of Engineering

Overview

The University of Utah’s College of Engineering is one of the top engineering schools in the state, known for its research excellence and innovation. Located in Salt Lake City, the college offers a broad range of undergraduate and graduate programs across seven departments, including mechanical, electrical, biomedical, and chemical engineering. The college has strong connections with industry, particularly in Utah’s booming tech sector, providing students with valuable research and internship opportunities. The college is also home to the Utah Robotics Center and multiple cutting-edge research facilities.

Key Information

  • U.S. News Ranking (2024): #56 for undergraduate engineering programs.
  • Number of Students: Over 4,500 students in undergraduate and graduate programs.
  • Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Biomedical, Electrical, Mechanical, Civil, Chemical, and Computer Engineering.
  • Acceptance Rate: 62%
  • Average SAT Score: 1240–1420
  • Average GRE Score: 160 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

  • Nolan Bushnell – Founder of Atari and Chuck E. Cheese.
  • John Warnock – Co-founder of Adobe Systems.
  • Ed Catmull – Co-founder of Pixar and former President of Walt Disney Animation Studios.
  • David Evans – Pioneer in computer graphics.
  • Tanner Cooley – Founder of several tech startups in Utah.

Utah State University – College of Engineering

Overview

Utah State University (USU) in Logan is known for its strong emphasis on research and innovation, especially in the areas of aerospace, environmental, and electrical engineering. USU’s College of Engineering offers a comprehensive set of engineering disciplines and has a reputation for its high-quality research in sustainable energy, water resources, and autonomous systems. The university has strong ties to government agencies and industries in Utah, ensuring that students have access to internships and co-op programs that provide real-world experience.

Key Information

  • U.S. News Ranking (2024): #128 for undergraduate engineering programs.
  • Number of Students: Over 3,200 engineering students.
  • Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Mechanical, Aerospace, Civil, Environmental, Electrical, and Computer Engineering.
  • Acceptance Rate: 94%
  • Average SAT Score: 1175
  • Average GRE Score: 157 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

  • Merlin Olsen – NFL Hall of Fame player and actor.
  • L. Tom Perry – Member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in the LDS Church.
  • Mike Leavitt – Former Governor of Utah and U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services.
  • Clair Cameron Patterson – Geochemist and pioneer in radiometric dating.
  • Bruce Hough – Political strategist and businessman.

Brigham Young University (BYU) – Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering

Overview

Brigham Young University’s Ira A. Fulton College of Engineering is located in Provo and offers a strong engineering curriculum with an emphasis on ethical and leadership development. Known for its research and innovation in fields such as mechanical, civil, electrical, and chemical engineering, BYU integrates a strong faith-based education, which promotes a holistic approach to problem-solving. The college is recognized for its competitive engineering teams, which frequently participate in national and international competitions in areas like robotics, civil engineering, and chemical processes.

Key Information

  • U.S. News Ranking (2024): #109 for undergraduate engineering programs.
  • Number of Students: Approximately 2,500 engineering students.
  • Degrees Offered: B.S., M.S., Ph.D. in Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, and Computer Engineering.
  • Acceptance Rate: 67%
  • Average SAT Score: 1370–1460
  • Average GRE Score: 162 (Quantitative)

Notable Alumni

  • Harvey Fletcher – Pioneer in stereophonic sound and hearing aids.
  • Stephen Covey – Author of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People.
  • James O. Mason – Former Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
  • Henry B. Eyring – Leader in the LDS Church and former university president.
  • Gordon B. Hinckley – Former President of the LDS Church.

Weber State University – College of Engineering, Applied Science & Technology

Overview

Weber State University, located in Ogden, offers a strong focus on applied engineering and technology education through its College of Engineering, Applied Science & Technology (EAST). The college provides a wide range of engineering programs, including mechanical, electrical, and manufacturing engineering technology, with an emphasis on practical, hands-on learning. WSU’s programs are designed to prepare students for immediate employment in various engineering industries, particularly in Utah’s growing tech and manufacturing sectors.

Key Information

  • U.S. News Ranking (2024): Not ranked nationally for engineering.
  • Number of Students: Approximately 1,200 students in engineering-related programs.
  • Degrees Offered: B.S. in Electrical, Mechanical, and Manufacturing Engineering Technology.
  • Acceptance Rate: 100%
  • Average SAT Score: 1090–1220
  • Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.

Notable Alumni

  • Ed Catmull – Co-founder of Pixar and former president of Walt Disney Animation Studios.
  • Brad Dee – Utah State Representative.
  • Vicky Varela – CEO of Utah-based tech companies.
  • Brian T. Moynihan – Business leader and CEO of Bank of America.
  • Brent Scowcroft – Former National Security Advisor to U.S. Presidents Gerald Ford and George H.W. Bush.

Southern Utah University – College of Engineering and Computational Sciences

Overview

Southern Utah University (SUU), located in Cedar City, offers a growing engineering program with an emphasis on computer science and mechanical engineering. SUU is known for its strong commitment to hands-on learning and preparing students for careers in engineering through internships and industry partnerships. The College of Engineering and Computational Sciences focuses on practical applications of engineering principles in technology, computer systems, and mechanical design.

Key Information

  • U.S. News Ranking (2024): Not ranked nationally for engineering.
  • Number of Students: Approximately 700 students in engineering-related programs.
  • Degrees Offered: B.S. in Mechanical, Computer, and Electrical Engineering.
  • Acceptance Rate: 84%
  • Average SAT Score: 1100–1240
  • Average GRE Score: Not widely reported.

Notable Alumni

  • David Dickenson – CEO of Dickenson Engineering.
  • Mike Leavitt – Former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services.
  • Richard L. Evans – Prominent religious leader in the LDS Church.
  • Barton L. Smith – Aerospace engineer and researcher.
  • Sharla Snow – Leading engineer in Utah’s renewable energy industry.
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