Engineering is a vast and rapidly growing field with a wide range of available academic and employment opportunities. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which degree program to pick and from which school, which is why we’ve narrowed down a list of the best engineering schools in Georgia to help you with your decision.
Whether you are a resident of the state or are planning on moving there for your studies, this list of the best engineering schools in Georgia will serve as a guide for you as you make your decision. We have also included Georgia engineering school rankings to help you with your school search.
How to Choose a Good Engineering School in Georgia
To choose the best engineering school in Georgia, you should consider the location of the school, the degree levels offered by each school, and your career goals. All of these factors are key to picking a school that suits you best.
Location
If you plan to attend in-person classes, then the location of the school you attend should be factored into your decision, especially if you’ll be commuting. You should try to choose a place that is within reasonable traveling distance.
Degree Levels
Consider what you want your career path to look like after you complete your studies and factor that into your decision about which school to attend and the degree levels offered at that school. This matters because different levels of education provide different opportunities of employment.
Career Goals
The direction in which you wish to see your career go will be a major determining factor of the college degree you pursue. There are various specializations to choose from within the field of engineering, and carefully selecting a program that lines up with your career goals is the surest way to get you the job you want once your studies are complete.
Georgia Engineering School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Engineering Programs in Georgia?
| Engineering School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Georgia Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering | Master of Science in Computational Science and Engineering | 7 (Engineering Schools) |
| Emory University | Dual Degree Engineering Program | N/A | 21 (National) |
| Gordon State College | Associate of Science Degree in Engineering | N/A | 71-93 (Regional) |
| Columbus State University | Bachelor of Science in Robotics Engineering | Master of Science in Robotics Engineering | 74 (Regional) |
| Kennesaw State University | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering | Masters of Science in Mechanical Engineering | 75 (Engineering schools) |
| University of Georgia | Bachelor of Science in Biochemical Engineering | Master of Science in Biochemical Engineering | 102 (Engineering schools) |
| Mercer University | Bachelor of Science in Engineering-Electrical Engineering | Master of Engineering-Electrical Engineering | 162 (National) |
| Oglethorpe University | Bachelor of Science in Physics-Engineering Track Dual Degree Program | N/A | 165 (National, Liberal Arts) |
| Georgia State University | Associate of Science, Engineering Pathway | N/A | 239 (National) |
| Georgia Southern University | Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering | Master of Science in Electrical Engineering | 299-391 (National) |
Georgia Engineering Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Engineering Schools in Georgia
To rank the best engineering schools in Georgia, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best engineering program as a guide. We also took into consideration the subject-specific rankings conducted by Times Higher Education, as well as factors such as graduation rate, acceptance rate, and affordability.
Best Engineering Schools in Georgia Explained
The best engineering schools in Georgia include the Georgia Institute of Technology, Gordon State College, Columbus State University, University of Georgia, Mercer University, Georgia State University, Georgia Southern University, and Kennesaw State University. Below is an in-depth look at what these schools have to offer their engineering students.
Best Undergraduate Engineering Schools in Georgia
Some of the best undergraduate engineering schools in Georgia for bachelor’s and associate degrees are Georgia Institute of Technology, Columbus State University, University of Georgia, Mercer University, Georgia Southern University, Kennesaw State University, Gordon State College, Georgia State University, Valdosta State University, and Andrew College.
Best Engineering Associate Degree Schools in Georgia
- Columbus State University | Associate of Science in Engineering Studies. The Associate of Science in Engineering Studies from Columbus State gives students the opportunity to work collaboratively with faculty on research projects relating to areas such as fiber optics, biomedical imaging, robotics, and reinforcement learning.
- Gordon State College | Associate of Science in Engineering. Gordon State College’s associate degree program focuses on areas of calculus, physics, and engineering. Students take classes in mathematics and engineering in this two-year program in preparation for a Bachelor of Science degree after completion of their associate degree.
- Georgia State University | Associate of Science in Engineering. This degree program equips students with a foundational knowledge of engineering practices and scientific principles related to design, development, construction, or operations.
- Valdosta State University | Associate of Science in Engineering Studies. This two-year program at Valdosta State University is for students interested in using scientific and mathematical methods to solve engineering problems and partaking in experimental laboratory analyses.
- Andrew College | The Associate Degree in Engineering. Students who pursue this associate degree at Andrew College take coursework that is focused on mechanical, electrical, and civil engineering areas. This foundational coursework prepares them to pursue bachelor’s degrees after completing the program.
Best Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Georgia
- Georgia Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering. Students learn about the integration of life sciences and engineering in this degree to equip themselves with the right skills for career paths in the biomedical engineering field.
- Columbus State University | Bachelor of Science in Robotics Engineering. The focus of this program is robotics and automation. Students gain skills related to areas of computer science, mechanical and electrical engineering, and kinesiology.
- University of Georgia | Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering. This program focuses on the care and conservation of natural resources. Students interested in learning about electronics, natural resource management, process operations, and related areas are well-suited to this degree.
- Mercer University | Bachelor of Science in Engineering in Industrial Engineering. Those interested in applying methods of statistics and probability in their line of work can pursue this degree. Students learn about management science, ergonomics, manufacturing, and the quality of products and services.
- Kennesaw State University | Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. This undergraduate degree is for students who want to pursue careers in a variety of fields related to electricity and electromagnetism.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Graduate Schools for Engineering in Georgia
The best graduate schools for engineering in Georgia include Kennesaw State University, Columbus State University, Georgia Institute of Technology, University of Georgia, and Mercer University.
Best Schools for Master’s in Engineering in Georgia
- Kennesaw State University | Master of Science in Systems Engineering. Pursuing this engineering program at Kennesaw University gives you the problem-solving skills necessary to deal with industry challenges.
- Columbus State University | Master of Science in Robotics Engineering. This interdisciplinary program at Columbus State University teaches students methods of design and development as they relate to robotic devices.
- Georgia Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Computational Science and Engineering. This program is for students who want to learn about computer-based models of natural phenomena and engineered systems.
- University of Georgia | Masters in Engineering in Electrical and Computer Engineering. This program offers students the option to pursue either a thesis or a non-thesis option to learn the application methods related to electrical and computer engineering.
- Mercer University | Master of Science in Engineering in Software Engineering. Students who wish to pursue a degree focused on software architecture, development and maintenance, and related practices are who this program is for.
Best PhD in Engineering Universities in Georgia
- Georgia Institute of Technology | PhD in Environmental Engineering. This program is designed for students who wish to pursue careers related to emerging environmental issues and their solutions.
- University of Georgia | PhD in Engineering. This program allows students to choose between several areas of emphasis, such as biochemical engineering, biomedical engineering, dynamic systems and controls, electrical and computer engineering energy systems, engineering education and transformative practice, environment and water, mechanics and materials, fluid and thermal systems, and resilient infrastructure systems.
- Kennesaw State University | PhD in Interdisciplinary Engineering. Students of this program can focus on civil and environmental engineering, electrical and computer engineering, engineering technology, industrial and systems engineering, mechanical engineering, and robotics and mechatronics engineering.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Admission Requirements for Engineering Schools in Georgia
The admission requirements for engineering schools in Georgia are different for undergraduate and graduate students. As expected, undergraduate admission requirements are less rigorous than graduate admission requirements. Listed below are the typical requirements for each.
Engineering Schools in Georgia: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- A completed application accompanied by the application fee
- Letters of recommendation
- High school transcripts
- Prerequisite or placement testing in mathematics and science
- SAT/ACT test scores
Engineering Schools in Georgia: Graduate Admission Requirements
- A completed application accompanied by the application fee
- Academic records
- Statement of purpose
- Resume/CV
- GRE scores
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Engineering in Georgia?
Yes, it is hard to get into engineering schools in Georgia because degrees in engineering anywhere in the US are typically more difficult to obtain than others. This is due to the subjects required to earn an engineering degree, like mathematics and science, which people generally struggle with.
If you have a good grasp of these subjects, however, and you are comfortable regularly applying them in your coursework, then it is not too hard to get into an engineering school in Georgia. It is really all about what your strengths are.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Georgia for Engineering
- Georgia Southern University | Acceptance Rate: 91%. This institution is easier to get into because standardized test scores, while considered, are not required. This leads to a higher acceptance rate.
- Columbus State University | Acceptance Rate: 78%. Columbus State University is another school that does not require standardized scores as part of its application process, thus making it easier to get into.
- Valdosta State University | Acceptance Rate: 78%. This university is less selective in its admissions process than schools that have lower acceptance rates. Applicants do not have to have high secondary school class ranks, making it easier to get into the institution. It also does not require letters of recommendation from prospective students.
- Mercer University | Acceptance Rate: 78%. Mercer University also does not require standardized test scores, even though it does consider them. Like the other institutions mentioned above, this makes the process of getting into the school easier for those with lower test scores.
- Oglethorpe University | Acceptance Rate: 67%. Oglethorpe is another university that does not require standardized test scores. However, the institution is more selective than the universities listed above.
How to Get Into the Best Colleges and Universities
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Best Online Schools for Engineering in Georgia
The best online schools for engineering in Georgia are Georgia Institute of Technology, Kennesaw State University, Columbus State University, University of Georgia, and Mercer University. Schools that have a more selective admissions process, those with acceptance rates of less than 25 percent, often have higher retention and graduation rates, according to NCES.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Engineering Program |
|---|---|---|
| Georgia Institute of Technology | 88% | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering |
| Mercer University | 61% | Master of Science in Software Engineering |
| Georgia State University | 56% | Associate of Science in Computer Science or Engineering |
| Georgia Southern University | 51% | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology |
| Kennesaw State University | 48% | Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering technology |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Engineering in Georgia
The most affordable engineering colleges in Georgia are Columbus State University, Valdosta State University, University of Georgia, Georgia Institute of Technology, and Georgia Southern University.
How to Attend the Top Engineering Schools in Georgia With Financial Aid
The top engineering schools in Georgia offer financial aid options to students, as previously mentioned. Hence, it is best to look into what scholarships are available and which you qualify for. There are a few ways to get an engineering scholarship.
Best Engineering Scholarships for Georgia Students
- Scholarship for Engineering Education | Amount: $17,500. Georgia residents enrolled in an engineering degree can apply for the Scholarship for Engineering Education (SEE). It is a forgivable loan for students pursuing a degree from an in-state private university that can commit to working in an engineering field in Georgia.
- HOPE Scholarship | Amount: $7,680. The HOPE Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship for Georgia students. It is available to Georgia residents enrolled in an undergraduate degree program. Students must have earned a 3.0 high school GPA and maintain a minimum of 3.0 cumulative postsecondary GPA to remain eligible.
- Zell Miller Scholarship | Amount: $10,258. This scholarship pays the full cost of in-state tuition. This merit-based award is for Georgia residents. Students must have earned a 3.7 high school GPA, and a minimum SAT score of 1200 or ACT score of 26. They must maintain a minimum 3.3 cumulative postsecondary GPA to remain eligible.
Georgia Employment Outlook for Engineering
The Georgia employment outlook for engineering is positive since science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers are projected to grow, with over 95,000 new jobs expected during the period ending in 2028.
This means that those pursuing degree programs in the field of engineering can expect to have plenty of job opportunities available to them in their chosen career fields. Your job opportunities expand if you have the right educational background.
Highest-Paying Engineering Careers in Georgia
| Engineering Job | Engineering Degree | Average Salary in Georgia |
|---|---|---|
| Architectural and Engineering Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $152,350 |
| Aerospace Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $122,270 |
| Biomedical Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $97,410 |
| Environmental Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $96,820 |
| Industrial Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $95,300 |
Best Engineering Jobs in Georgia Explained
The best engineering jobs in Georgia, as listed above, are architectural and engineering manager, aerospace engineer, biomedical engineer, environmental engineer, and industrial engineer. These professions have promising job prospects and pay above the national average salary of $58,260.
Does It Matter What Engineering School in Georgia I Go To?
No, it doesn’t matter what engineering school you go to if it’s an accredited institution. If it is accredited, that means that a governing body has declared it suitable to educate students and award them with degrees. The legitimacy of an engineering program and good quality education are what matter the most.
Certain schools are ranked higher than others in terms of the standard of education provided, which is why some people choose specific universities over others. If that is a factor that is important to you, then it matters what engineering school you attend. However, an engineering degree from an accredited institution is valid regardless of the university’s rankings.
Additional Reading About Engineering
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Best Engineering Schools in Georgia FAQ
Yes, Georgia is a good place to pursue an engineering degree. Georgia is home to one of the best engineering schools in the country, Georgia Tech, and that alone makes it a good place to pursue an engineering degree.
Yes, it matters which engineering degree you choose because there are specializations that are relevant to specific areas of the field. It makes sense to choose an engineering degree that will set you on your desired career path.
It takes four to five years to earn an undergraduate degree in engineering. After that, you can choose to study further or enter the workforce, depending on your personal career goals.
Yes, it is easy to get a job as an engineer in Georgia because the projected job growth within the field shows that employment opportunities for engineers are on the rise. There are different types of engineering jobs you can access based on your qualifications and experience.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
