The state of New York has a long and illustrious engineering history. It is home to two of the three oldest engineering schools in the US. The best engineering schools in New York continue to uphold this educational standard by driving technological advancements, including green and sustainable energy.
There are more than 240 colleges and universities in New York state. They collectively offer degrees in nearly every branch of engineering. This article sorts through the many options available to you and brings you the best selection of engineering schools in New York. We also examine your engineering career prospects and the best jobs available to you in New York.
How to Choose a Good Engineering School in NY
To choose the best engineering school in New York for you, you should consider the school’s accreditation, cost of attendance, employment opportunities, concentration options, and admission requirements. The following list explains the most critical factors you should consider before enrolling in an engineering college.
Accreditation
Accreditation proves that a school provides quality education on par with or exceeding national and global education standards. It is also a significant factor in determining the level of respect accorded to a school. You should only apply to schools with accreditation from an official body.
Cost of Attendance
Before you commit to attending a particular school, you should carefully consider your budget and financial aid options. The Education Data Initiative states that 48.9 percent of students who took a federal loan are still paying it off 20 years later. You should apply to schools that you can comfortably afford through self-sponsorship or zero-cost financial aid sources.
Employment Opportunities
Engineering jobs are highly sought after due to their prestige and attractive salaries. Employers tend to have a preference for graduates from reputable schools. Furthermore, some colleges have formed partnerships with engineering companies to provide internships and employ graduates. Attending these schools can significantly improve your chances of an early career launch.
Concentration Options
The field of engineering is one of the broadest academic disciplines, consisting of several sub-disciplines. For this reason, no single school can offer all of the engineering degree programs available for study. Before enrolling in a college of engineering, you must check that it provides your preferred engineering majors and minors.
Barriers to Admission
Engineering programs can be very competitive and accept only the smartest people among prospective students. Nevertheless, some engineering schools in New York have incredibly high acceptance rates or even open admission policies. You should play off your academic strengths and select a school where you can easily satisfy the admission requirements.
NY Engineering School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Engineering Programs in NY?
| Engineering School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cornell University | Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering | PhD in Systems Engineering | #9 |
| Columbia University | Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering | #21 |
| Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering | Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering | #31 |
| Rochester Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Master of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering | #56 |
| New York University | Bachelor of Science in Civil and Urban Engineering | PhD in Electrical Engineering | #63 |
| University at Buffalo–SUNY | Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering | Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering | #63 |
| Stony Brook University–SUNY | Bachelor of Engineering in Electrical Engineering | PhD in Biomedical Engineering | #72 |
| Syracuse University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering | Master of Science in Engineering Management | #72 |
| University of Rochester | Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Computer Engineering | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering | #72 |
| City College of New York-CUNY | Bachelor of Engineering in Mechanical Engineering | PhD in Chemical Engineering | #96 |
NY Engineering Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Engineering Schools in NY
To rank the best engineering schools in New York, 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 NY Explained
The best engineering schools in New York are some of the highest-ranked in the country. They include two Ivy League schools and several top private institutions. These schools combine to offer many engineering degree programs at all tertiary education levels. This section examines the 10 best engineering colleges in New York that you can attend.
Best Undergraduate Engineering Schools in NY
The best undergraduate engineering schools in New York include community colleges that offer Associate Degrees in Engineering Technology. However, engineering is best taught through a four-year bachelor’s degree program. The following sections highlight the best schools you can attend for an undergraduate degree in engineering.
Best Engineering Associate Degree Schools in New York
- SUNY College of Technology at Canton | Associate of Applied Science in HVAC Engineering Technology. This program teaches students about all the components of Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems. Students also learn how to install HVAC units in domestic buildings and industrial facilities.
- College of Staten Island-CUNY | Associate of Science in Engineering Science. This program prepares students to transfer to any bachelor’s engineering program at the College of Staten Island or other four-year institutions. This program requires 60 credit hours of study in either mechanical engineering or electrical engineering.
- Jamestown Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Mechatronics. This is a career-oriented degree that trains students to work with electro-mechanical systems in manufacturing industries. They learn how to develop, operate and maintain automated equipment and robots.
- Queensborough Community College-CUNY | Associate of Applied Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology. This program teaches students how to operate and service several types of equipment and technologies related to mechanical engineering. They learn the working principles of automobile components, air conditioners, automated systems, and power plants.
- Monroe Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Electrical Engineering Technology-Electronics. This program examines various electrical devices and equipment with a special focus on electronics. Students gain hands-on experience with small circuits and microprocessors. They also learn to manufacture and sell electrical technology such as smartphones and computers.
Best Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs in New York
- Columbia University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering. This program integrates some courses from electrical engineering into its curriculum to ensure that learners are well versed in both fields. The program also equips students with the skills needed to work in telecommunications, software engineering, and circuit design.
- University at Buffalo-SUNY | Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. Students in this program learn to apply engineering design and analysis to solve various infrastructure problems. They also perform cutting-edge research into novel civil engineering technologies.
- Syracuse University | Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering. This program merges the fields of engineering and life sciences into a comprehensive program. Students take this program in small class sizes that favor intensive teaching and learning.
- Binghamton University | Bachelor of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering. This program is dedicated to optimizing and simplifying complex engineering processes and systems. It teaches students to apply various tools, including statistics and artificial intelligence, to increase working efficiency in various sectors.
- SUNY Maritime College | Bachelor of Engineering in Marine Engineering. SUNY Maritime College is one of the only two engineering schools in New York to offer marine engineering. This program trains students to design, control, and maintain ship components and marine equipment. It also awards the US Coast Guard Third Assistant Engineer license.
Best Online Associate Degrees
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-associate-degrees
Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-bachelors-degrees
Best Graduate Schools for Engineering in NY
The two main directions for a graduate engineering degree are a career-oriented professional degree and a research-oriented degree. Fortunately, most engineering schools in New York offer one or both kinds of degrees. Continue reading to discover the top programs from the best graduate engineering schools in New York.
Best Schools for Master’s in Engineering in New York
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | Master of Engineering in Transportation Engineering. This 30-credit program is a subset of civil engineering and is offered by the Civil and Environmental Engineering department. It is aimed at students seeking professional training so the thesis or capstone project is entirely optional.
- Stony Brook University-SUNY | Master of Science in Electrical Engineering. This is a research-oriented program that features six concentration areas for graduate research. This is one of the few engineering degree programs that allow working engineers to conduct research activities.
- Syracuse University | Master of Science in Chemical Engineering. This flexible program allows students to develop a learning structure unique to themselves. As a result, this program can prepare students for advanced PhD research or serve as a terminal program.
- Binghamton University | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering. This program provides a unique blend of theory, laboratory, and industry experience in solid mechanics, materials, design, and manufacturing. Its learning structure prepares mechanical engineering students to pursue an engineering career or a doctoral program.
- Alfred University | Master of Science in Biomaterials Engineering. This is a 30-credit-hour program designed to introduce students to the emerging field of biotechnology. They learn how to contribute to the development of biomedical devices by researching biomaterials and molecular cell biology.
Best PhD in Engineering Universities in New York
- Cornell University | PhD in Aerospace Engineering. This program explores the science and working principles behind heavier-than-air vehicles. It provides sufficient training for students to work in multiple sectors of the aviation industry. Students must enroll with a bachelor’s degree, and they earn a master’s degree during the program.
- New York University | PhD in Mechanical Engineering. This program has a strong focus on the development of innovative modern technology. The curriculum features five research areas that allow graduates to branch out into other engineering fields. Classes are kept small to help foster an intimate educational setting, allowing stronger connections between professors and students.
- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | PhD in Nuclear Engineering and Science. The nuclear engineering program at this school is one of the oldest in the country. Graduate students can conduct research and perform experiments using various nuclear science equipment, including a large electron accelerator.
- Clarkson University | PhD in Electrical and Computer Engineering. This program offers a wide range of research areas including signals processing, embedded systems, biomedical engineering, and artificial intelligence. Prospective students must possess an engineering master’s degree to gain admission into this program.
- City College of New York-CUNY | PhD in Computer Science. This is a general computer science program that incorporates leadership training in its curriculum. This curriculum also features several artificial intelligence and machine learning research paths. Graduate students have the opportunity to consult and work with acclaimed researchers that made up the school faculty.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
[query_class_embed] online-*subject-masters-degrees
"Career Karma entered my life when I needed it most and quickly helped me match with a bootcamp. Two months after graduating, I found my dream job that aligned with my values and goals in life!"
Venus, Software Engineer at Rockbot
Best Online PhD Programs
[query_class_embed] online-phd-in-*subject
Admission Requirements for Engineering Schools in NY
The basic admission requirements for engineering schools are different for undergraduate and graduate students. Undergraduate admission requirements are generally more stringent and include standardized test scores, recommendation letters, and high school transcripts. Graduate admission requirements may include a resume, GRE scores, and high GPA requirements.
Engineering Schools in New York: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Minimum high school GPA
- Standard test scores such as SAT or ACT
- Academic and/or professional letters of recommendation
- Application fees
Engineering Schools in New York: Graduate Admission Requirements
- GRE scores
- Academic transcripts from every postsecondary institution attended
- A resume or CV detailing your educational and professional history
- Minimum bachelor’s or master’s degree GPA
- English proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS for international students
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Engineering in NY?
No, it is not very hard to get into a school for engineering in New York. While some Ivy League schools feature extremely competitive admission processes, other engineering schools have much higher acceptance rates and less stringent admission requirements.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in New York for Engineering
- Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology | Acceptance Rate: 100%. This school is dedicated to aviation, aeronautics, and airport management. The school offers more than 15 engineering degrees and certificate programs tailored to the aviation industry.
- Monroe Community College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Monroe Community College offers eight engineering associate degrees and certificates. The admission requirements to get into Monroe are some of the least demanding in New York. Furthermore, the school has an explicit non-discrimination policy and admits students of all races and genders.
- New York City College of Technology | Acceptance Rate: 79%. This school is the largest public college of technology in the northeast, with a student population of 17,000. This indicated a relatively high admission rate and relaxed admission requirements.
- Clarkson University | Acceptance Rate: 78%. Clarkson University offers 10 engineering majors and several minors for study. It also awards several need-based, merit-based, and alumni scholarships to its students.
- Manhattan College | Acceptance Rate: 78%. Manhattan College offers five undergraduate engineering programs and eight graduate engineering programs. In addition, the admission process for Manhattan College includes an optional interview that can improve your chances of acceptance.
How to Get Into the Best Colleges and Universities
[query_class_embed] how-to-get-into-*school
Best Online Schools for Engineering in NY
The best online schools for engineering in New York are Columbia University, New York University, Stony Brook University, Excelsior College, and Finger Lakes Community College. The table below ranks these colleges based on the graduation rates provided by NCES and shows the best online engineering programs they offer.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Engineering Program |
|---|---|---|
| Columbia University | 93% | Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering |
| New York University | 84% | Master of Science in Management of Technology |
| Stony Brook University-SUNY | 75% | Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering |
| Excelsior College | 35% | Bachelor of Science in Nuclear Engineering Technology |
| Finger Lakes Community College | 29% | Associate of Science in Engineering Science |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Engineering in NY
The most affordable colleges for engineering in New York are the United States Military Academy, City College of New York-CUNY, New York City College of Technology-CUNY, SUNY Polytechnic Institute, and Stony Brook University.
How to Attend the Top Engineering Schools in NY With Financial Aid
You can attend the top engineering schools in New York with financial aid by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). You can also apply for the New York State Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) grant. Furthermore, there are numerous scholarship opportunities available to relieve your financial burden.
Best Engineering Scholarships for New York Students
- Excelsior Scholarship | Amount: $5,500. The Excelsior Scholarship supplements other financial aid options to help students attend any SUNY or CUNY college tuition-free. The scholarship is available to New York residents earning less than $125,000 annually.
- Enhanced Tuition Awards | Amount: $6,000. This scholarship is awarded annually to undergraduate students attending private institutions throughout the stipulated duration of their study. Awardees must renew their status every year by filling out the FAFSA and NYS Student Aid Payment application.
- NYS Memorial Scholarship | Amount: $24,880. This scholarship is available to spouses, children, and financial dependents of public services workers like firefighters, police officers, and emergency medical personnel who have died in the line of duty. Each family member must submit a separate application should there be more than one applicant.
- Ascend Educational Fund | Amount: $2,500-$20,000. The Ascend Educational Fund helps immigrants and children of immigrants fund their college education. Recipients must maintain a good academic and moral standing every year to continue to enjoy this scholarship.
- First Responders Children’s Foundation | Amount: $20,000. This scholarship is given to a prospective undergraduate student who is a child of a police officer or firefighter killed or permanently disabled in the line of duty. The scholarship has a strong preference for first-year engineering students pursuing a four-year degree.
NY Employment Outlook for Engineering
The New York employment outlook for engineers is steadily on the rise and is much faster than the national average. This reflects the high demand for industry-standard engineers in the state. The engineering field is a self-sustaining ecosystem as the technological advancements made by current engineers have created more engineering job opportunities.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a six percent job growth between 2020 and 2030 for engineering jobs and some individual occupations are as high as 12 percent. This is a strong indication that engineering jobs will continue to be in demand for a long time. With this demand comes rewarding salaries and job benefits.
Highest-Paying Engineering Careers in New York
| Engineering Job | Engineering Degree | Average Salary in New York |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering Post Secondary Teacher | PhD | $125,250 |
| Electrical Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $107,510 |
| Chemical Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $107,160 |
| Biomedical Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $106,690 |
| Civil Engineer | Bachelor’s degree | $99,860 |
Best Engineering Jobs in New York Explained
The best engineering jobs in New York include electrical engineer, chemical engineer, biomedical engineer, civil engineer, and postsecondary teachers. These types of engineering jobs reflect some of the best engineering programs in New York. Most of them are very lucrative and have salaries well above the national average.
Does It Matter What Engineering School in NY I Go To?
No, it does not matter which school in New York you go to for engineering. Nearly all of the engineering programs in New York state are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology. Consequently, most have similar education standards and provide high-quality engineering education. You can easily find your desired program at any university of your choice.
Additional Reading About Engineering
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/engineering-bachelors-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/engineering-degree/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/five-great-software-engineer-characteristics-codesmith-guide/
Best Engineering Schools in NY FAQ
It depends on your program of study and level of education. Most engineering programs are not suitable for online learning. They require intense concentration and feature practical laboratory work. Nevertheless, some of the best online engineering bachelor’s programs have managed to overcome this limitation while maintaining a comparable standard to in-person programs.
A Bachelor of Engineering is better than a Bachelor of Science in an engineering field. A Bachelor of Engineering is more career-focused. As such, it offers better job prospects than a Bachelor of Science. Conversely, a Bachelor of Science is more suitable for graduates looking to further their studies in research-focused programs.
Yes, you should get an Associate Degree in Engineering. You can obtain an associate engineering degree at a lower cost and it offers more flexible options for getting your degree. It also provides several opportunities for entry-level engineering jobs. However, if you wish to advance your engineering career, it is advisable to get a bachelor’s degree or even a Master’s Degree in Engineering.
Yes, it can be difficult to obtain an engineering degree. Engineering is considered one of the hardest academic fields and it requires intense discipline to study. All engineering curricula feature advanced mathematics, physics, and chemistry topics that may be challenging to grasp. Nonetheless, some engineering degree programs are taught by seasoned teachers who will try their best to simplify the learning process for those new to industry concepts.
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.
