Electricity is one of humanity’s most groundbreaking discoveries, powering our world and driving technology forward. Since the second industrial era, electrical engineers have been at the heart of incredible innovations—from Thomas Edison’s first incandescent lamp to power transformers and today’s electric vehicles. If you’re still on the fence about choosing a career in electrical engineering, this blog will give you everything you need to know about the best schools for electrical engineering.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the top programs nationwide, discovering schools with state-of-the-art labs, groundbreaking research, and strong ties to the tech industry. If you’re interested in power systems, electronics, or telecommunications, this list will help you pinpoint which universities excel at preparing the next generation of engineering leaders and set you up for success.
- Top 10 Best Schools for Electrical Engineering
- What Can You Do with an Electrical Engineering Degree?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Takeaways
Top 10 Best Schools for Electrical Engineering
What are the best schools for electrical engineering? Choosing the right one can make all the difference, so important to gather as much information as possible before making your decision. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of top universities known for their standout electrical engineering programs.
1. Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Acceptance rate: 4.5%
Average tuition cost: $59,750
As an electrical engineer or computer scientist, you’ll find yourself working in an incredibly wide range of fields—from networks and AI to robotics, software engineering, and energy systems. The tech you rely on every day—like the internet, cell phones, and MRI machines—comes from breakthroughs in these fields, and MIT’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science (EECS), one of the best schools for electrical engineering, has been at the forefront of many of these innovations.
At MIT, one of the best schools for electrical engineering, your career options are expansive, thanks to a solid foundation in engineering principles paired with hands-on experience. As an undergrad, you’ll dive into core courses that build your knowledge in electrical engineering and computer science. You’ll also have plenty of chances to apply what you learn through lab work, projects, and industry experiences. For grad students, MIT offers pathways to specialize across different disciplines in tech and other industries.
2. Stanford University
Acceptance rate: 4%
Average tuition cost: $62,500
At Stanford’s Department of Electrical Engineering (EE), one of the best schools for electrical engineering, you’ll engage in both foundational and applied research, exploring everything from physical technologies and hardware systems to software and information tech. This program prepares you for a career in industry, academia, or research labs, with opportunities to earn degrees like a Bachelor of Science, Master of Science, or PhD. Plus, there are unique joint programs if you’re interested in combining electrical engineering with law (M.S./J.D.) or business (M.S./M.B.A.).
In the undergrad program, you’ll get a solid grounding in the physical sciences, math, and computing, and you’ll dive into core courses that cover electronics, information systems, and digital systems. You’ll also have the flexibility to focus on areas that interest you, like hardware, software, or multidisciplinary fields like bio-electronics, energy, or even music.
3. UC Berkeley
Acceptance rate: 11.2%
Average tuition cost: $48,600 (in-state)
At Berkeley’s Department of Electrical Engineering & Computer Sciences, one of the best schools for electrical engineering, you’re joining a top-ranked program known for groundbreaking research and innovative teaching. Here, you’ll work on team-driven, cross-disciplinary projects that connect electrical engineering and computer science with fields like biology, chemistry, mechanical engineering, and mathematics.
As part of one of the best schools for electrical engineering, you’ll be learning from award-winning faculty like Randy Katz and Ali Javey who are renowned in the field of cloud computing and nanotechnology. They’re constantly advancing technology in AI, robotics, big data, and more.
4. California Institute of Technology (Caltech)
Acceptance rate: 3%
Average tuition cost: $63,300
At Caltech’s Electrical Engineering (EE) program—one of the best schools for electrical engineering—you’ll be part of a legacy of excellence and innovation dating back to 1910. Here, you’ll dive into the core foundations of EE, from the physical aspects of device design to the mathematical side of systems, all within a multidisciplinary environment. You’ll have the chance to explore both theoretical and hands-on research in fields ranging from telecommunications to robotics and information systems.
As one of the best schools for electrical engineering, Caltech’s program is designed to set you up for leadership roles in academia, industry, or government. You’ll be well-prepared for further study, entrepreneurial ventures, or R&D work in top labs, with a strong foundation in essential areas like math, science, and engineering.
The program combines classroom learning, lab work, and design experience, while helping you develop problem-solving, system design, creativity, and teamwork skills, with an emphasis on professional ethics, communication, and staying current on contemporary issues. And if you’re interested in diving deeper, there are plenty of research opportunities to work directly with faculty on projects.
For example there’s the Center for Autonomous Systems and Technologies (CAST), which promotes interdisciplinary research and the exchange of ideas in the expanding area of autonomous systems; and the Information Science Technology (IST), which is the first integrated research and teaching activity in the US.
5. Georgia Institute of Technology
Acceptance rate: 17%
Average tuition cost: $11,700 (in-state)
The BSc in Electrical Engineering is a 4-year, full-time program at one of the best schools for electrical engineering, Georgia Tech. The School of Electrical and Computer Engineering offers two degree paths: Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering. Both paths come with flexible elective hours, so you can shape your program to focus on a specific area or get a broader perspective across various subjects.
Throughout the program, you’ll learn engineering analysis and design, leading up to a major capstone design experience that considers everything from technical details to economic and societal impacts.
In Electrical Engineering, you’ll find electives in areas like analog electronics, bioengineering, systems and controls, microsystems, optics and photonics, electromagnetics, and telecommunications. You can also explore advanced courses in related fields like computer science, mathematics, physics, or even management.
In your senior year, you’ll work on developing your teamwork, communication, and interdisciplinary problem-solving skills, wrapping it all up with a senior design seminar and capstone project.
6. University of Illinois
Acceptance rate: 60%
Average tuition cost: $18,060 (in-state)
Electrical Engineering is a major within the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE), and it’s all about the technology that touches nearly every part of our lives. You’ll find applications in areas like electrical power, communications, information technology, nanotechnology, and biotechnology. If you love tinkering and have a passion for creating something new, this could be the perfect fit for you at one of the best schools for electrical engineering.
As for career options, you’ll have plenty to choose from. You could dive into communications and wireless networks, explore electromagnetics, optics, and remote sensing, or work with lasers and biomedical sensing. If you’re fascinated by nanotechnology and quantum devices, that’s also a path you can take. There’s also networking and information security, operating systems and software development, robotics and control systems, semiconductor materials, integrated circuits, and even signal, image, and speech processing.
7. University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
Acceptance rate: 18%
Average tuition cost: $18,300 (in-state)
Electrical engineering is one of the broadest engineering degrees out there, giving you the flexibility to dive into just about any area you want. If you’re excited about designing, inventing, and improving devices that enhance individual lives and tackle societal challenges, then electrical engineering (EE) could be the perfect fit for you—especially if you’re considering the best schools for electrical engineering.
Employers love hiring electrical engineering majors because of your versatility. With a degree in EE from one of the best schools for electrical engineering, you’ll gain the foundational knowledge needed for almost any job in engineering or technology management. Plus, it opens the door to a variety of exciting careers throughout your life. The Electrical Engineering (B.S.E.) program at University of Michigan is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, which means you’re getting a top-notch education that meets rigorous standards.
8. Purdue University
Acceptance rate: 67%
Average tuition cost: $10,000 (in-state)
The Electrical Engineering program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, so you know you’re getting a solid education at one of the best schools for electrical engineering.
When you dive into Electrical and Computer Engineering, you’re exploring all areas of research, development, design, and operation of electrical and electronic systems, including software. You’ll have the chance to focus on diverse fields like bioengineering, circuit theory, communication sciences, control systems, and energy sources. The school offers two degree paths: the Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) and the Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering (BSCmpE).
Here’s a quick look at the two degree programs:
- Electrical engineering covers everything from the development and design of electrical systems to research and operation of electronic systems and components. You’ll learn about VLSI and circuit design, communication and signal processing, energy systems, and even microelectronics and nanotechnology.
- Computer engineering gives you a deeper understanding of both hardware and software aspects of modern computer systems, making it a great specialization within the broader electrical and computer engineering field.
9. Carnegie Mellon University
Acceptance rate: 17%
Average tuition cost: $58,600
The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Carnegie Mellon is all about pushing the boundaries of education and research in both current and emerging technologies. As society’s demands evolve, you’ll find that there’s a growing need for engineers who can apply their skills in fresh contexts.
Employers value those who can bridge traditional boundaries between disciplines and thoughtfully consider the wider implications of their work. That’s why the curriculum here at Carnegie Mellon is designed to help you become a world-class engineer ready to tackle these challenges head-on, especially as one of the best schools for electrical engineering.
At Carnegie Mellon, you’ll get a tech-savvy education combined with a big-picture perspective. You’ll learn to break down the details of tiny sensor and actuator systems while also understanding the long-term impact of your decisions. Plus, you won’t be limited to just one area of expertise. You’ll have the chance to collaborate on interdisciplinary research projects in fields like biomedicine, energy, brain-machine interaction, the Internet of Things, wirelessly powered implants, artificial intelligence, and the development of tomorrow’s smart grid.
10. Cornell University
Acceptance rate: 8%
Average tuition cost: $66,000
At Cornell’s School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, you’re in for an educational experience at one of the best schools for electrical engineering. You’ll get a broad foundation in electrical and computer engineering, grounded in science, math, computing, and technology. Plus, you’ll learn to appreciate the importance of lifelong learning, which will support you no matter what career path you choose.
As an electrical and computer engineer, you’ll be tackling real-world issues at various scales, from the tiny world of integrated electronics to massive power grids. The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) degree program here covers a wide array of exciting topics, including digital and computer systems, embedded processors, digital signal processing, wireless systems, optical communications, and even atmospheric and space plasmas. You’ll also dive into solid-state electronics, integrated circuit design and fabrication, and biomedical applications like image processing and sensors—preparing you for a future at one of the best schools for electrical engineering.
What Can You Do with an Electrical Engineering Degree?
As a graduate in electrical engineering, you’ll find that you’re in high demand across all major industries. You can venture into in electronics, computers, information technology, aerospace, chemicals, or automotive sectors. There are plenty of exciting and challenging positions waiting for you.
Nearly every industry needs skilled electrical engineers like you. To stand out, important professional attributes include strong communication skills, the ability to self-learn, teamwork, and a solid appreciation for ethical conduct.
With these skills combined with the technical expertise you’ll gain during your studies from any of the best schools for electrical engineering, you’ll be well-prepared for various roles in research and development, applied engineering, and even fields like management, sales, education, medicine, and law.
Possible roles with an electrical engineering degree
Here are five career paths you can consider with an electrical engineering degree:
- Power engineer. Power engineers design, develop, and maintain systems that generate, distribute, and utilize electric power.
- Control systems engineer. Control systems engineers develop automation and control systems for complex processes in industries like manufacturing, aerospace, and automotive.
- Electronics engineer. Electronics engineers design, test, and improve electronic circuits and components found in devices like smartphones, computers, and medical equipment.
- Telecommunications engineer. Telecommunications engineers develop and maintain communication systems that allow for the transmission of data over various media, including fiber optics, satellite, and wireless networks.
- Embedded systems engineer. Embedded systems engineers specialize in designing and programming microcontrollers and processors embedded within larger systems.
Job outlook and career prospects
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), overall employment of electrical and electronics engineers is projected to grow 9% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations. The median annual wage for electrical engineers was $106,950 in May 2023.
About 19,000 openings for electrical and electronics engineers are projected each year, on average, over the decade. Many of those openings are expected to result from the need to replace workers who transfer to different occupations or exit the labor force, such as to retire.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to get an electrical engineering degree in the US?
In the U.S., earning an electrical engineering degree typically takes four years if you pursue a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) as a full-time student. This degree usually requires around 120 to 130 credit hours of coursework.
2. Is there a board exam for electrical engineers in the US?
Yes, there is a board exam for electrical engineering in the U.S., specifically the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam and the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam.
After successfully passing both exams and fulfilling the experience requirements, you can apply for a Professional Engineer (PE) license in your state. Licensure is not mandatory for all electrical engineers, but it can enhance job prospects and is often required for certain positions, especially those involving public safety and welfare.
3. What are the top industries for electrical engineering jobs in the US?
You can work in electronics and semiconductors companies, telecommunications, and IT fields.
Takeaways
- Earning an electronics engineering degree is for you if you enjoy STEM-related subjects. It’s also a lucrative degree—proven by its above-average median annual salary.
- Some of the best schools for engineering are MIT, Stanford, and UC Berkeley.
- Consult with AdmissionSight and find out what we can do to help you get into the best schools for engineering by ensuring that you are sufficiently aware and well-prepared for the application process.
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