The best engineering schools in Massachusetts contribute significantly to workforce and industry growth by offering undergraduate and graduate degree programs in a range of engineering disciplines. In light of this, we have created Massachusetts engineering school rankings. Let’s delve in to learn more about the best engineering schools in Massachusetts and their top degree programs.
How to Choose a Good Engineering School in Massachusetts
To select a good engineering school in Massachusetts, evaluate key factors like the school’s accreditation, admission requirements, degrees offered, and career services. This is a significant decision that requires thorough research and potentially even visits the school, if possible.
The following three factors are a good place to start when researching schools. Always keep your own preferences and goals regarding your education in mind.
Accreditation
Before deciding on a college, it is important to verify its accreditation. If you are unable to find the school’s accreditation status on the school’s official website, try searching for it in the US Department of Education’s online Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs. It will be difficult to get a job or an advanced degree if you have a degree from an unaccredited school.
Location
A school’s location is critical for a number of reasons. Most students prefer a school that is nearby so that they don’t have to travel a long distance to get to campus. This saves money and time. If you’re open to relocating, make sure that the city or town in which the school is located offers ample affordable accommodations, services, and activities that match your preferences.
Size
Larger institutions are more likely to have a broader selection of majors and more education resources overall. On the other hand, the more individualized attention that you are likely to receive at a smaller school might be of greater importance to you. Research numbers like the student-to-faculty ratio and the average class size to get a feel for how much support you can expect.
Massachusetts Engineering School Rankings: What Schools Have the Best Engineering Programs in Massachusetts?
| Engineering School | Top Undergrad Program | Top Grad Program | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering | Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering | #1 |
| Harvard University | Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering |
Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Engineering |
#21 |
| Northeastern University | Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering |
Master of Science in Materials Engineering |
#33 |
| Boston University | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering |
Master of Science in Computer Engineering |
#35 |
| University of Massachusetts- Amherst |
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering |
Master of Science in Materials Engineering |
#57 |
| Tufts University | Bachelor of Science in Environmental Engineering |
Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering |
#64 |
| Worcester Polytechnic Institute | Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering | Master of Science in Computer Engineering |
#86 |
| University of Massachusetts- Lowell |
Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering |
Master of Science in Nuclear Engineering |
#126 |
| University of Massachusetts- Dartmouth |
Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering | Master of Science in Electrical Engineering |
#152-200 |
| Franklin W Olin College of Engineering | Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering |
N/A | Unranked |
Massachusetts Engineering Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Engineering Schools in Massachusetts
To rank the best engineering schools in Massachusetts, we used US News & World Report’s breakdown of the best computer science/engineering programs 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 Massachusetts Explained
The best engineering schools in Massachusetts are also some of the most prestigious schools in the country, like Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology, among others. All of them have been profiled in a detailed manner below. Read on to learn more about our Massachusetts engineering school rankings in greater detail.
MIT was established in 1861 as a non-profit school. It is located in an urban setting and has a campus area of 168 acres. The 2022 edition of US News & World Report’s best colleges in the US ranks MIT as the second-best national university in the US, tied with Harvard University.
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Acceptance Rate: 7%
- Graduation Rate: 95%
- US News National Ranking: #2
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #5
Massachusetts Institute of Technology Engineering Overview
- Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- GRE Requirements for Engineering Grad Students: Not required
- Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $28,795/year (full time)
- Engineering Graduate Tuition: $28,795/year (full time)
- Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Engineering National Ranking: #1
- Times Higher Education Engineering World Ranking: #4
Best Massachusetts Institute of Technology Engineering Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering. Students learn the fundamentals of aerospace vehicles and system design and development in this four-year program.
- Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. This program is designed for students who want to learn about the applications of chemical engineering in various fields, such as environmental protection and nanomaterials. Requirements for the program include courses in chemical engineering with an emphasis on chemistry.
- Master of Science in Aerospace Engineering. One to two years of graduate work, culminating in a thesis, are required for this degree. Graduates of this program will be well-prepared for positions in aerospace research and development, as well as for PhD studies in the future.
- Master of Science in Chemical Engineering Practice. For those who have already earned a chemical engineering bachelor's degree or a related degree, this program provides advanced knowledge through hands-on, practical experience working in an industrial context.
- Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering. To earn this degree, students are required to finish a minimum of 66 units at the graduate level, with at least 42 of those units in materials science and engineering.
Harvard University was founded in 1636 and is a private university. It has a 5,076-acre campus in an urban location. According to the 2022 best National Universities list by US News, Harvard University is tied for the second-best university in the country.
Harvard University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Acceptance Rate: 5%
- Graduation Rate: 98%
- US News National Ranking: #2
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #2
Harvard University Engineering Overview
- Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- GRE Requirements for Engineering Grad Students: Not required
- Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $52,659/year (full time)
- Engineering Graduate Tuition: $59,968/year (full time)
- Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Engineering National Ranking: #21
- Times Higher Education Engineering World Ranking: #1
Best Harvard University Engineering Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering. Students pursuing this degree in biomedical engineering are given the tools to translate theoretical concepts and empirical scientific findings into operational systems.
- Bachelor of Environmental Science and Engineering. This Bachelor of Environmental Science and Engineering program gives students the skills and knowledge to comprehend, forecast, and adapt to environmental change caused by natural and human activity and create solutions using an interdisciplinary approach.
- Bachelor of Mechanical Engineering. The design and analysis of mechanical and thermal systems are the primary focuses of this mechanical engineering degree, which draws heavily from the fields of physics and materials science.
- PhD in Computer Science. In order to graduate with this PhD, students must successfully complete 16 four-unit courses. In addition, they must conduct original research and pass a qualifying exam.
- PhD in Materials Science. Students must successfully complete 10 letter-graded courses out of 16 required courses, conduct original research, and pass a qualifying exam to earn this PhD.
Northeastern University is a private university established in 1898. It has a student body of over 15,000, is located in an urban setting, and has a campus area of 73 acres. In the 2022 edition of US News & World Report’s best colleges lists, Northeastern University is ranked number 49th on the list of the best national universities.
Northeastern University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Acceptance Rate: 20%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- US News National Ranking: #49
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #168
Northeastern University Engineering Overview
- Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- GRE Requirements for Engineering Grad Students: Optional
- Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $29,550/term
- Engineering Graduate Tuition: $1,740/credit
- Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Engineering National Ranking: #33
- Times Higher Education Engineering World Ranking: #126-150
Best Northeastern University Engineering Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering. The curriculum for this mechanical engineering bachelor’s degree focuses on four areas, including applied mechanics, thermo-fluids engineering, materials science, and controls.
- Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering. Students must complete 137 credits to earn this degree. Laboratory or clinical sessions provide hands-on experience and are also required.
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. Students must complete a semester-long capstone design project for this bachelor’s degree. They will be tasked with solving a real-world design challenge by applying their expertise and skills.
- PhD in Bioengineering. This bioengineering PhD program highlights the capabilities of bioengineering research across several fields. An intensive core curriculum in bioengineering science is followed by an immersion track, with eight options from which students can choose.
- PhD in Chemical Engineering. Those who pursue this PhD in Chemical Engineering have the opportunity to work on cutting-edge research in fields such as biomedicine, energy security, and environmental sustainability.
Boston University was founded in 1839 and is a private university. The school's 175-acre campus is located in an urban area. In US News’ lists of the best colleges for 2022, Boston University took 42nd place in national universities.
Boston University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Acceptance Rate: 20%
- Graduation Rate: 87%
- US News National Ranking: #42
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #62
Boston University Engineering Overview
- Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- GRE Requirements for Engineering Grad Students: Not required, except LEAP
- Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $61,050/year (full time)
- Engineering Graduate Tuition: $1,908/credit (part time); $30,525/semester (full time)
- Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Engineering National Ranking: #35
- Times Higher Education Engineering World Ranking: #151-175
Best Boston University Engineering Programs
- BS in Biomedical Engineering. This bachelor's degree requires 133 credits. At least 48 credits must be taken at Boston University in the upper-division program.
- BS in Computer Engineering. Graduation with this degree requires a minimum of 133 credits. The Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET has accredited this BS in Computer Engineering program.
- BS in Electrical Engineering. Students must complete a total of 131 credits for this bachelor’s degree program, which is also accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET.
- MS in Biomedical Engineering. Full-time students can finish this 36-credit program in one year. Students who choose the thesis option should anticipate devoting two years to the program.
- PhD in Electrical Engineering. A total of 32 credits post-master’s or 64 credits post-bachelor’s is required to earn this degree. A dissertation and its defense after achieving PhD candidacy are also required.
University of Massachusetts-Amherst (UMA) was established in 1863 and is a public university. A suburban setting and 1,463-acre campus characterize this school. UMA was ranked 68th in the best national universities in the US, in US News’ best colleges lists for 2022.
University of Massachusetts-Amherst Overview
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Acceptance Rate: 65%
- Graduation Rate: 78%
- US News National Ranking: #68
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
University of Massachusetts-Amherst Engineering Overview
- Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- GRE Requirements for Engineering Grad Students: Waived due to Covid-19, otherwise minimum 152 (verbal), 153 (quant), 4.0 (writing)
- Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $8,093/semester (in state); $18,702.50/semester (out of state)
- Engineering Graduate Tuition: $7,182 per 9-credit semester (in state); $15,744.50 per 9-credit semester (out of state)
- Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Engineering National Ranking: #57
- Times Higher Education Engineering World Ranking: N/A
Best University of Massachusetts-Amherst Engineering Programs
- BS in Biochemical Engineering. Graduates of this bachelor’s degree program are well-suited to work in the biopharmaceutical industry. Bioprocess engineering, careers in biotech companies, or postgraduate studies in biological engineering are common career paths.
- BS in Civil and Environmental Engineering. As part of this CEE program, students learn about all facets of civil engineering, as well as the field's environmental implications.
- MS in Electrical and Computer Engineering. Students who choose the non-thesis option for this degree must complete at least 30 credits. Those who choose the thesis option must complete at least seven graduate courses and earn at least nine thesis credits in order to graduate.
- MS in Mechanical Engineering. Students are required to have a Bachelor's Degree in Mechanical Engineering, or in metallurgy, materials science, physics, mathematics, or another related field, to be eligible for this Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering program, which requires 30 credit hours.
- PhD in Industrial Engineering and Operations Research. Research careers in industry, academia, or government laboratories are among the goals of this doctoral degree program. The fundamental requirement is a dissertation that presents original research in this field.
Since its inception in 1852, Tufts University has been a private university. The 150-acre campus is located in a suburban area. Tufts University took 28th place on the best national universities list by US News for 2022.
Tufts University Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Acceptance Rate: 16%
- Graduation Rate: 93%
- US News National Ranking: #28
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #172
Tufts University Engineering Overview
- Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- GRE Requirements for Engineering Grad Students: Program-specific
- Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $63,804/year (full time)
- Engineering Graduate Tuition: $30,546/year (master’s); $9,378/year (PhD)
- Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Engineering National Ranking: #64
- Times Higher Education Engineering World Ranking: #251-300
Best Tufts University Engineering Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. This program requires 120 credit hours that can be completed in four years. It is accredited by ABET.
- Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering. This 120-credit program is accredited by ABET.
- Master of Science in Bioengineering. Graduates of this bioengineering graduate program get an edge in an industry that is always evolving. Students can choose to focus on a specific area of study that best meets their interests and career ambitions.
- Master of Science in Electrical Engineering. This 30-credit master’s degree program can be completed in one to two years. Expert faculty and innovative facilities help students make a contribution to the field of electrical engineering.
- Master of Science in Chemical Engineering. This master’s degree program requires 30 credit hours and offers a thesis and non-thesis option.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute was founded in 1865 and is a private university. The university's campus sits on 95 acres of land. Worcester Polytechnic Institute is ranked number 63 on the best national universities list for 2022 by US News & World Report.
Worcester Polytechnic Institute Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Acceptance Rate: 59%
- Graduation Rate: 88%
- US News National Ranking: #63
- Times Higher Education Ranking: #601-800
Worcester Polytechnic Institute Engineering Overview
- Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- GRE Requirements for Engineering Grad Students: Required
- Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $56,000/year (full time)
- Engineering Graduate Tuition: $28,980/year (full time)
- Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Engineering National Ranking: #86
- Times Higher Education Engineering World Ranking: #401-500
Best Worcester Polytechnic Institute Engineering Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering. This undergraduate degree in aerospace engineering builds a solid foundation in math, science, engineering, and design, as well as aerospace engineering. Students grow their problem-solving skills through research.
- Bachelor of Science in Architectural Engineering. Students of this four-year program in architectural engineering are required to complete a capstone project in their final year of study.
- Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering. Biomedical engineers need to be well-versed in a variety of areas, which is why this degree program offers courses in chemistry, mathematics, and computational sciences, in addition to biomedical engineering.
- Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. The curriculum for this undergraduate program has been carefully crafted to provide students with a solid foundation in chemical engineering principles. However, the program is flexible enough that students can explore their own areas of interest.
- Master’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering. This tough, but flexible program prepares graduates to use engineering concepts in domains like the healthcare industry. Biomedical engineering students need to attend seminars and complete a thesis to earn this degree.
UMass Lowell was founded in 1894. The campus spans 142 acres and recently had 13,815 undergraduates. Its academic calendar is semester-based. UMass Lowell takes position 179 among the best national universities in the US for 2022, according to US News & World Report.
University of Massachusetts-Lowell Overview
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Acceptance Rate: 75%
- Graduation Rate: 59%
- US News National Ranking: #179
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
University of Massachusetts-Lowell Engineering Overview
- Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- GRE Requirements for Engineering Grad Students: Required
- Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $16,182/year (in state); $34,550/year (out of state)
- Engineering Graduate Tuition: $15,676/year (in state); $27,750/year (out of state)
- Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Engineering National Ranking: #126
- Times Higher Education Engineering World Ranking: N/A
Best University of Massachusetts-Lowell Engineering Programs
- Bachelor of Science in Biomedical Engineering. This program educates students to design and build medical devices and equipment through a challenging curriculum, world-class instructors, and cutting-edge research.
- Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. Starting with basic math and science, you'll learn how to apply these concepts to the courses in chemical and engineering design required in this program.
- Master of Science in Computer Science. Students pursuing this Master of Science in Computer Science must complete between 30 and 34 credits of coursework. A six-credit-hour master's thesis can be chosen as an option.
- Master of Science in Industrial Engineering. In order to receive this master's degree, students must complete 30 credit hours of graduate-level work, nine of which must be research credits for the thesis option. The non-thesis option involves only coursework.
- Master of Science in Engineering in Mechanical Engineering. Students pursuing this master’s degree must complete 30 credits of graduate work, nine of which must be research credits for the thesis track. The school’s Bachelor of Science in Engineering program can be combined with this one into a five-year program that results in both degrees.
UMD was established in 1895 and is a public university. It is located in a suburban setting on 710 acres of land. The academic year is divided into two semesters. University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth is the 227th best national university in the US, according to US News’ 2022 list of the best colleges.
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth Overview
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Acceptance Rate: 76%
- Graduation Rate: 53%
- US News National Ranking: #227
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth Engineering Overview
- Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s, Master’s, PhD
- GRE Requirements for Engineering Grad Students: Program-specific
- Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $14,408/year (in state); $30,153/year (out of state)
- Engineering Graduate Tuition: $682.92/credit (in state); $1,232.42/credit (out of state)
- Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Engineering National Ranking: #152-200
- Times Higher Education Engineering World Ranking: N/A
Best University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth Engineering Programs
- BS in Bioengineering. For completion of this degree, students must earn 120 credits through coursework in areas such as engineering, biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics, English, and general studies.
- BS in Bioengineering: Biomedical Engineering. This 120-credit program offers a challenging education that draws from a variety of fields and incorporates various engineering concepts, including material design and bio-research.
- BS in Civil Engineering. To earn this civil engineering bachelor's degree, you will need to complete 122 credits, 68 of which will be in general and civil engineering courses.
- MS in Civil & Environmental Engineering. This Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering is a 30-credit program that offers two tracks: a master’s thesis and a master's project.
- MS in Computer Engineering. This Master of Science in Computer Engineering is a 30-credit program. At least 24 of the 30 credits must be at the graduate level. Students can select the thesis or non-thesis track.
Franklin W Olin College of Engineering is a private educational institution that was established in 1997. It is located in a suburban environment, and its campus spans 70 acres. It follows an academic calendar that is divided into semesters. US News ranked Olin College of Engineering third for Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs list for 2022.
Franklin W Olin College of Engineering Overview
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Acceptance Rate: 16%
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- US News National Ranking: N/A
- Times Higher Education Ranking: N/A
Franklin W Olin College of Engineering Engineering Overview
- Engineering Degrees Offered: Bachelor’s
- GRE Requirements for Engineering Grad Students: N/A
- Engineering Undergraduate Tuition: $57,280/credit (full time)
- Engineering Graduate Tuition: N/A
- Engineering Acceptance Rate: N/A
- US News Engineering National Ranking: #3 (Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs)
- Times Higher Education Engineering World Ranking: N/A
Best Franklin W Olin College of Engineering Programs
- Mechanical Engineering. Students who choose this undergraduate degree program in mechanical engineering receive a thorough education in planning, constructing, and analyzing mechanical and thermal systems.
- Electrical and Computer Engineering. This electrical and computer engineering undergraduate program concentrates on developing students’ skills in the design and construction of computers and communication systems.
- Bioengineering Concentration. Bioengineering is one of several concentration areas available to undergraduate students at Olin. Those who choose this area of focus develop the skills necessary to address challenges in the fields of biology, medical research, and clinical investigations.
Best Undergraduate Engineering Schools in Massachusetts
The best undergraduate engineering schools in Massachusetts offer two main types of degrees. Community colleges typically only offer two-year associate degrees, while four-year universities and colleges often offer both associate and bachelor’s degrees. Let us find out the top colleges in Massachusetts that provide associate and bachelor’s degrees in engineering.
Best Engineering Associate Degree Schools in Massachusetts
- Bristol Community College | Associate of Science in Engineering Technology: Electrical. This curriculum prepares students for employment as technicians in a variety of areas requiring training in electronics technology, including solar energy, industrial production, research and development laboratories, field service, and technical sales.
- University of Massachusetts-Lowell | Associate of Science in Mechanical Engineering Technology. This program is for students interested in the design, testing, and manufacturing of products. The 68-credit program establishes a solid foundation of knowledge and skills to prepare students for jobs in manufacturing.
- Springfield Technical Community College | Associate of Science in Civil Engineering Technology. This program offers the comprehensive basis necessary for success in sectors requiring the knowledge and skills of civil engineering assistant technicians. Students are introduced to CAD, construction estimating, and building materials and processes.
- Benjamin Franklin Cummings Institute of Technology | Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology. This school allows students to earn stackable certificates in various IT subjects that can later be applied to an associate degree program. The computer information technology associate degree requires 60 to 63 credits and prepares students for industry certification examinations.
- Quinsigamond Community College | Associate of Science in Engineering: Biomedical Engineering. As part of a challenging curriculum that focuses on math, science, and biology, this biomedical engineering associate degree prepares students for transfer to four-year institutions where they can pursue degrees in biomedical engineering, medicine, and biology.
Best Engineering Bachelor’s Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. This undergraduate degree program is designed for students seeking a comprehensive education in the application of chemical engineering in a variety of fields. Degree requirements include fundamental chemical engineering courses with an emphasis on chemistry.
- Massachusetts Maritime Academy | Bachelor’s Degree in Marine Engineering. This undergraduate marine engineering program prepares graduates for jobs as licensed engineering officers in the United States Merchant Marine and engineering positions in shore-based enterprises.
- Harvard University | Bachelor’s Degree in Biomedical Engineering. Biomedical engineering students at Harvard are equipped with the skills necessary to translate theoretical concepts and empirical research results into operational systems. The Bachelor of Science option requires a thesis, while the Bachelor of Arts option does not.
- Boston University | Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering. Through this curriculum, students learn the fundamentals of physics, mathematics, and engineering. They then build on this foundation to learn about electromagnetics, signals and systems, digital logic, and computer networks.
- Northeastern University | Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering. Students in this chemical engineering program receive a well-rounded education that starts with the fundamentals of physics, math, and engineering. They then learn how to tackle real-world challenges through the use of cutting-edge software and computer-aided design.
Best Online Associate Degrees
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Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees
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Best Graduate Schools for Engineering in Massachusetts
The best graduate schools for engineering in Massachusetts provide two main types of degrees. Master’s degrees typically require two years to complete, while PhDs can take anywhere from three to six years or longer to complete. Here are the best Massachusetts engineering graduate school rankings.
Best Schools for Master’s in Engineering in Massachusetts
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology | Master of Science in Chemical Engineering Practice. This master’s degree can be earned in one year. The first two semesters of the program are focused on graduate-level coursework, followed by a third semester spent working with resident MIT employees at the school’s field stations.
- Tufts University | Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering. This 30-credit program can be completed in one or two years. It prepares graduates for careers in research, development, and management.
- Worcester Polytechnic Institute | Master’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering. This program’s curriculum consists of mechanical engineering coursework and a graduate seminar. You have the choice of completing a thesis or a non-thesis alternative, with the latter requiring additional mechanical engineering courses.
- Wentworth Institute of Technology | Master’s Degree in Civil Engineering. Both the Master of Science and Master of Engineering require 31 credit hours. Students establish a course plan with their adviser to ensure the fulfillment of their educational goals.
- Merrimack College | Master of Science in Civil Engineering. This master’s degree program prepares students for supervisory and leadership roles in project and construction management. Graduate courses are required in both engineering and management, giving students knowledge and abilities that set them apart in the civil engineering job market.
Best PhD in Engineering Universities in Massachusetts
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology | PhD in Biological Engineering. The goal of this biological engineering program at MIT is to train the next generation of engineers and scientists to produce and disseminate new knowledge at the intersection of biology and engineering.
- Harvard University | PhD in Materials Science and Mechanical Engineering. For this degree, students are required to take 10 semester-long courses, half of which must be technical graduate-level courses within the School of Engineering and Applied Sciences (SEAS) or taught by SEAS faculty.
- Tufts University | PhD in Mechanical Engineering. This doctoral degree program provides student support from day one through a faculty advisor and later a dissertation panel and a thesis supervisor. Graduates of this program typically seek jobs as researchers or as faculty at research centers.
- Northeastern University | PhD in Bioengineering. This doctoral program offers a challenging core curriculum in bioengineering fundamentals, complemented by a flexible selection of electives customized to students’ dissertation research.
- Boston University | PhD in Computer Engineering. A total of 32 credits at the graduate level are required for this degree. Students will undertake theoretical and empirical research in a topic area they define with the help of their faculty research advisor.
Best Online Master’s Degrees
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Best Online PhD Programs
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Admission Requirements for Engineering Schools in Massachusetts
The basic admission requirements for undergraduate and graduate engineering programs in Massachusetts differ. Undergraduate schools typically don’t have as many admission requirements as graduate schools do. Although each school has its own admission requirements, below are some that undergraduate and graduate schools tend to share.
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Engineering Schools in Massachusetts: Undergraduate Admission Requirements
- Submit the online application and pay the application fee.
- Include evidence of your prior education and GPA in the form of official high school transcripts or the equivalent.
- Send your official ACT or SAT scores.
Engineering Schools in Massachusetts: Graduate Admission Requirements
- Complete and submit your application for admission and pay the application fee.
- Submit official transcripts from previous schools attended to show proof of your bachelor’s degree and GPA.
- Send your GRE or GMAT scores.
- Submit recommendation letters, personal statements, and an updated resume.
Is It Hard to Get Into a School for Engineering in Massachusetts?
Yes, it is hard to get into a Massachusetts engineering school. Most of the schools on our lists have an acceptance rate below 50 percent, with Harvard’s acceptance rate of five percent being the lowest. However, there are easier schools to get into in Massachusetts for engineering. Some even have open admissions.
Easiest Colleges to Get Into in Massachusetts for Engineering
- Greenfield Community College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. The acceptance rate at Greenfield is 100 percent, due to its open-admission policy. Liberal arts and humanities, nursing, and medical assisting services are among the most popular majors.
- North Shore Community College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Since North Shore Community College has a policy of open admissions, it is an easier school to get into. General studies, liberal arts, and health and medical administrative services are the most popular associate degree fields.
- Roxbury Community College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. The acceptance rate at Roxbury is also 100 percent. It is part of the school’s mission to transform lives through excellence and innovation.
- Massachusetts Bay Community College | Acceptance Rate: 100%. Due to its open-admission policy, MBCC has a 100 percent acceptance rate. It offers a variety of undergrad programs in different fields, including more than 100 online programs.
- Massachusetts Maritime Academy | Acceptance Rate: 92%. With a high acceptance rate, Massachusetts Maritime Academy is not difficult to get into. It offers academic programs in a range of different disciplines including business, health sciences, liberal arts, and education.
How to Get Into the Best Colleges and Universities
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Best Online Schools for Engineering in Massachusetts
The best online engineering schools in Massachusetts offer academic programs in a variety of engineering disciplines. The table below shows five of the online engineering programs with the highest graduation rates. The data was obtained from the National Center for Education Statistics.
| School | Graduation Rate | Top Online Engineering Program |
|---|---|---|
| Northeastern University | 88% | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology |
| Worcester Polytechnic Institute | 88% | Master of Science in Environmental Engineering |
| University of Massachusetts- Amherst | 78% | Master of Science in Engineering Management |
| University of Massachusetts- Lowell | 59% | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology |
| Massachusetts Bay Community College | 23% | Associate of Arts in Engineering |
The Most Affordable Colleges for Engineering in Massachusetts
The most affordable colleges for engineering in Massachusetts offer a high-quality education at a cost that more people can afford. Here are five of the best engineering colleges in Massachusetts that offer an affordable education.
Fitchburg State University is one of the most affordable education institutions in Massachusetts. FSU has 16 academic departments with more than 30 undergraduate programs and 22 graduate programs.
UM Dartmouth’s more than 100 areas of study at the bachelor's, master's, and PhD levels offer innovative, inspirational, and affordable educational choices for students.
This highly ranked university offers more than 100 affordable undergraduate programs, including unique options in music production techniques, creative arts, diplomacy and conflicts research, engineering, and meteorology.
One of the best values in higher education in Massachusetts can be found at Massachusetts Maritime Academy. The school offers affordable undergraduate degrees in the subjects of energy systems engineering and maritime transportation.
Nearly 30,000 students attend the University of Massachusetts flagship campus, at Amherst, which has nine schools and colleges offering more than 90 affordable undergraduate and graduate programs.
How to Attend the Top Engineering Schools in Massachusetts With Financial Aid
You can attend Massachusetts’ best engineering schools more easily through the help of financial aid. Fill out a Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form anytime you apply for a college program. This will determine your eligibility for government financial aid. Below are some of the financial aid programs available to Massachusetts students.
Best Engineering Scholarships for Massachusetts Students
- Anne Maureen Whitney Barrow Memorial Scholarship | Amount: $8,000. Women enrolled in ABET-accredited undergraduate and graduate programs in engineering, engineering technology, and computer science are eligible for this renewable award.
- Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship Program | Amount: Up to $6,500. The Massachusetts legislature devised this program to assist economic growth in the state. A recent Massachusetts High Demand Scholarship went to students pursuing STEM or health profession degrees.
- Donald and Barbara Mozley Scholarship | Amount: $5,000. This scholarship offers financial assistance to students seeking a degree in mechanical engineering at an ABET-accredited higher education institution.
- Barry Goldwater Scholarship | Amount: Varies. This scholarship program seeks to provide a steady supply of highly skilled scientists, mathematicians, and engineers by granting scholarships to college students conducting research in these disciplines.
Massachusetts Employment Outlook for Engineering
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment rate for all engineering and architecture occupations in Massachusetts grew at a rate of 2.8 percent in 2021. Combined with the lucrative salaries in the engineering field, this makes the job outlook good for engineers in Massachusetts. Here are details on the highest-paying engineering careers in Massachusetts.
Highest-Paying Engineering Careers in Massachusetts
| Engineering Job | Engineering Degree | Average Salary in Massachusetts |
|---|---|---|
| Aerospace Engineers | Bachelor’s degree | $124,490 |
| Electrical Engineers | Bachelor’s degree | $118,100 |
| Chemical Engineers | Bachelor’s degree | $116,380 |
| Bioengineers and Biomedical Engineers | Bachelor’s degree | $115,670 |
| Civil Engineers | Bachelor’s degree | $98,910 |
Best Engineering Jobs in Massachusetts Explained
In Massachusetts, the best engineering jobs are also the ones that pay the most. In the table above, we have shown the top engineering jobs in Massachusetts that pay the most. Find out more about each of them below.
Aerospace engineers can be found working on everything from spacecraft and airplanes to missiles and defense systems for the US government and private sector. They assess proposals for different projects to determine if they are financially and technically feasible to be implemented. Manufacturing and research and development industries employ the vast majority of aerospace engineers.
Electrical engineers are in charge of designing, testing, and overseeing the production of electrical equipment. This includes things like DC motors, ultrasonic sensors, navigation systems, communication systems, and equipment for generating power.
They are also often involved in designing the electrical systems of aircraft and automobiles. In addition to creating design plans, they are required to prepare budgets and estimates and create accurate project specifications accordingly.
Chemical engineers use the principles of advanced science and math to solve problems related to how chemicals, fuels, medicines, and other products are made or used. They are often involved in the design of mass-production manufacturing, including safety procedures and byproduct cleanup. The best companies for chemical engineers include ExxonMobil, Boeing, and Dupont.
A biomedical engineer is a professional who studies and solves biological and medical problems in the interest of improving patient care. Biomedical engineers are in high demand, owing in large part to the widespread adoption of new technology in all areas of daily life. Major responsibilities of biomedical engineers include designing medical devices and equipment and ensuring that proper technical and staff support is available to maintain them.
Civil engineers are involved in designing, building, operating, and supervising infrastructure projects in the private and public sectors. Large-scale construction projects, like bridges and skyscrapers, are managed by these professionals. They produce project blueprints using computer modeling tools and data from surveys, maps, and other sources.
Does It Matter What Engineering School in Massachusetts I Go To?
Yes, it does matter what school in Massachusetts you go to for engineering, because it is a big investment of your time and money. Each university has its own advantages and disadvantages. Tuition costs, admission rates, university rankings, and available programs will all play a role in your decision-making process.
The best engineering schools in Massachusetts discussed in this article offer a great starting point. They are highly ranked, reputable, accredited schools with strong engineering offerings. The best school for you will be the one that best aligns with your education and career goals.
Additional Reading About Engineering
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Best Engineering Schools in Massachusetts FAQ
Massachusetts has the best school for engineering in the US, according to US News & World Report. In second and third place are schools in California.
There might be a shortage of engineers in the US. All of the specific engineering careers we researched for this article showed projected job growth of between six percent and nine percent from 2020 to 2030. These jobs are growing at least as fast as or faster than the average for all occupations.
Industrial engineering could be the most in-demand branch of engineering in the future. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a job growth rate of 14 percent in the industrial engineering field between 2020 and 2030. This equates to the addition of over 40,000 jobs nationwide.
The primary reason why engineering students drop out or change majors is because they are not prepared for the high level of commitment and rigor required to complete a degree in this field of study. Engineering is a notoriously difficult field of study and work and not all students are prepared for it.
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