best small engineering schools

We live in a world of rapidly changing technology. What’s new today is practically obsolete tomorrow, making keeping up with current advancements a very real challenge. Today’s students can’t afford to be left behind, though. To compete in a global marketplace, they need an education that will equip them with the 21st century skills that are in demand. To aid prospective students in their pursuit of a cutting-edge school that doesn’t leave them lost in the crowd, we’ve researched hundreds of small colleges to determine which ones have stayed ahead of the pack.

Rating and Ranking Methodology

Awards and Recognition (related to technology)

  • National Award: 2 points
  • Regional Award: 1 point

Progressive Science/Tech Degrees: 2 points

Advanced On-campus Technology Offerings: 2 points

High-level Technology Internships: 1 point

Technology Research Funding: 1 point

Technology-Related Study Abroad Opportunities / Partnerships in Technology: 1 point

Connections with Local Community Tech Experts: 1 point

“Wow” Factors: 1 point awarded for each unique feature or program that “wowed” us

Ranking the Most Technologically Advanced Small Colleges

The following schools have made the cut for the 50 most advanced small colleges based on their size (i.e. 5,000 undergraduate students or less) and their commitment to technological advancement, as defined by the ranking methodology above. Note that colleges that received the same number of points are listed by their net price, meaning the more affordable schools have been awarded the higher rankings.

#50 – Williams College

Williamstown, Massachusetts

School Profile

Points: 6
Enrollment: 2,126
Net Price: $22,315

With curriculum spanning divisions in liberal arts, social sciences, and mathematics, Williams College has expanded to over 36 available majors within 25 academic departments. In 2014, the Department of Mathematics and Statistics received the AMS (American Mathematical Society) Exemplary Department Award in recognition of its distinguished accomplishments in its field and community. In addition to its vast laboratory and library resources, Williams has also established an office of special academic programs, where students will find summer research opportunities, fellowships, and more initiatives to enhance their studies.

For more information: Williams College

#49 – Rockford University

Rockford, Illinois

School Profile

Points: 6
Enrollment: 1,025
Net Price: $12,780

Named a Best Midwestern College by The Princeton Review, Rockford University (formerly Rockford College) offers more than 80 majors, minors and concentrations including programs of study in areas such as Management Information Systems, Web Development, Business Administration, and International Studies. The campus is home to several computer classrooms as well as a newly updated Maclab for Graphic Design students. Faculty at Rockford also make use of Moodle, an online learning management tool where students can access course information, resources, and activities.

For more information: Rockford University

#48 – New College of Florida

Sarasota, Florida

Website

Points: 6
Enrollment: 834
Net Price: $12,353

Located in beautiful Sarasota Bay, New College of Florida take a unique approach to the education of its diverse student body. In lieu of grades, students receive meaningful feedback in the form of narrative evaluations. In addition, traditional instruction is suspended for one month each year to give students time to engage in independent study projects. The school has been named the top liberal arts college in the United States by U.S. News & World Report and is consistently recognized as a best value school.

For more information: New College of Florida

#47 – Albion College

Albion, Michigan

School Profile

Points: 7
Enrollment: 1,268
Net Price: $24,906

Listed among Princeton Review’s “Best Colleges” and prominently featured in the Fiske’s Guide to Colleges, Albion College is a liberal arts college with a focus on providing a well-rounded, rigorous academic experience for its student community. One of Albion’s most prominent opportunities can be found in experiential learning and research, much of it presented in the annual Elkin R. Isaac Student Research Symposium, highlighting the discoveries of faculty nominated undergraduates. Albion’s campus offerings include multiple dedicated spaces to science, laboratory work, and special research projects.

For more information: Albion College

#46 – Colorado College

Colorado Springs, Colorado

School Profile

Points: 7
Enrollment: 2,067
Net Price: $24,141

Located in Colorado Springs, Colorado College has distinguished itself as a strong higher education choice for those who are seeking a progressive and highly unique curriculum structure. In a framework coined “The Block Plan,” aspiring graduates take 1 class at a time in 3 and a half week sections, allowing for optimum focus on each area of study. This institution is home to a vast range of academic resources for its students, including the Quantitative Reasoning Center, which provides innovative study counseling for math and science students eager to excel in their courses.

For more information: Colorado College

#45 – Albertus Magnus College

New Haven, Connecticut

Website

Points: 7
Enrollment: 1,550
Net Price: $22,171

Founded in 1925 by the Dominican Sisters of Peace, Albertus Magnus College – located in New Haven, Connecticut – resides within a vibrant community of culture and academia. This institution offers over 50 courses of study, each with a pre-professional preparation opportunity available to all students as they embark on their careers. Albertus Magnus’s campus offerings include the Tagliatella Academic Center, which is home to some of the top laboratory resources available. Keeping in trend with the rising popularity of a career in computer sciences, this college will provide the skills to pass exams and earn the most marketable certifications.

For more information: Albertus Magnus College

#44 – Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

Winona, Minnesota

Website

Points: 7
Enrollment: 1,904
Net Price: $21,123

The mission of Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota is to provide students with an education enriched by the Lasallian Catholic Heritage. Though steeped in traditional values, the school describes itself as a 21st century university with a “dynamic and transformative” learning environment. Saint Mary’s combines experiential learning experiences with internship and research opportunities to give students a leg up on their global competition. Among the 59 undergraduate areas of study offered by the university include standout options such as Digital Graphic Design, Biology Pre-Nuclear Medicine Technology, and Electronic Publishing.

For more information: Saint Mary’s University of Minnesota

#43 – Miles College

Fairfield, Alabama

School Profile

Points: 7
Enrollment: 1,782
Net Price: $16,629

Miles College is a historically black college located in a town just outside of the central Birmingham area. This institution is not only renowned for its pivotal role in civic engagement and activism, but also for its commitment to preparing future leaders in STEM-focused fields such as biology, mathematics, environmental science, computer programming and much more. Miles College boasts diversity among its faculty and student body, further enriching an education that is based in a wide range of perspectives and backgrounds.

#42 – Florida Memorial University

Miami Gardens, Florida

School Profile

Points: 7
Enrollment: 1,478
Net Price: $15,635

Founded in 1879, Florida Memorial University is one of the oldest higher education institutions in Florida, A historically black school, it maintains close affiliation with the Baptist Church. Its graduates boast the sixth-highest starting salaries in the state, and students enjoy a close-knit campus community with resources typically only found at larger universities. Florida Memorial’s College of Arts and Sciences offers baccalaureate programs in Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, and Mathematics.

#41 – University of Minnesota Morris

Morris, Minnesota

School Profile

Points: 7
Enrollment: 1,856
Net Price: $14,397

U.S. News & World Report has named the University of Minnesota Morris a “Top 10 Public Liberal Arts College.” The school offers 35 majors and minors for undergraduates to choose from, including Environmental Science, Computer Science, and Biochemistry as well as pre-professional programs, including an engineering program. Morris is committed to sustainability and takes a holistic, school-wide approach to green living including education, research, investments, and outreach. Several renowned publications, including The Princeton Review has recognized the school for its environmental stewardship.

For more information: University of Minnesota Morris

#40 – Bentley University

Waltham, Massachusetts

School Profile

Points: 8
Enrollment: 4,264
Net Price: $31,653

The Princeton Review has lauded Bentley University as being one of the nation’s top schools for undergraduate education, noting in particular its excellent internship program and career services department. The university’s PreparedU project provides students with a number of different resources to guide them into the 21st century workforce including videos, articles, analysis and more. Bentley offers more than a dozen Bachelor of Science degree programs, including majors such as Computer Information Systems, Information Design and Corporate Communication, and Information Systems Audit and Control.

For more information: Bentley University

#39 – Pomona College

Claremont, California

Points: 8
Enrollment: 1,650
Net Price: $19,205

Located in a desert setting close to the Pacific Ocean, Pomona College in southern California is part of a unique consortium of institutions with 6 other independent colleges. This school centers its approach to learning around blending a small, personalized educational experience with the expansive range of resources typically found in large universities. The nearby Los Angeles metro area offers progressive community-based learning opportunities spanning public policy, environmental sustainability, art history, and more. For undergrads seeking international higher learning, Pomona has formed program partnerships with 32 countries across six continents.

For more information: Pomona College

#38 – SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry

Syracuse, New York

Website

Points: 8
Enrollment: 2,200
Net Price: $18,251

Founded in 1911, SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) remains one of the most well-respected institutions for the study of the environment and renewable technologies. ESF’s overarching mission is to both educate and collaborate with its students in developing sustainable solutions in maintaining the best possible planet for future generations. This institution’s commitment to integrating social, economic, technical, and environmental systems in its curriculum is a testament to its progressive approach to higher education.

For more information: SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry

#37 – Cumberland University

Lebanon, Tennessee

School Profile

Points: 8
Enrollment: 1,254
Net Price: $18,137

Founded in 1842, Cumberland University is a private liberal arts college located just 30 miles from Nashville. Though rich in history, the school has turned its focus to the future and is committed to preparing its students for 21st century careers. The Labry School of Science Technology, and Business offers undergraduate degrees in the areas of Computer Information Systems Management, Computer Analytics and Information, Engineering Science, and Computational Science and Technology. The president of First DATA USA, Edward Labry, is a recent alumnus of the university.

For more information: Cumberland University

#36 – University of North Carolina at Asheville

Asheville, North Carolina

School Profile

Points: 8
Enrollment: 3,804
Net Price: $12,040

The University of North Carolina at Asheville is a public liberal arts university nestled in the Blue Ridge Mountains. With a focus on undergraduate research, UNC encourages students to expand their learning and curiosity beyond the walls of the classroom. It consistently ranks near the top on U.S. News & World Report’s list of best colleges, and its Environmental Studies program has earned national acclaim. UNC offers over 30 areas of study, including majors in Atmospheric Sciences, Engineering, and Music Technology.

For more information: University of North Carolina at Asheville

#35 – Rust College

Holly Springs, Mississippi

School Profile

Points: 8
Enrollment: 2,127
Net Price: $11,789

Rust College, located in rural Mississippi, is a historically black college founded in 1866 by the Freedman’s Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church. This institution provides immersive education opportunities for its small community of undergraduates. Rust is highly recommendable for students pursuing a future in biology, as this is an especially well-informed degree program emphasizing the importance of learning other sciences in tandem with this specialization. Some of the college’s primary science curriculum is based in physics, psychology, chemistry, computer science, and mathematics.

For more information: Rust College

#34 – Kentucky State University

Frankfurt, Kentucky

Points: 8
Enrollment: 1,754
Net Price: $8,386

Located in the state capital of Kentucky, Kentucky State University is a historically black liberal arts college with a commitment to excellence and innovation. Through world-class faculty, experiential instructional methods, and state-of-the-art facilities, the school strives to prepare its diverse student body to be successful global citizens. The University’s College of Business and Computer Science offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate degree programs including majors in computer science and technology, computer science and mathematics, and even digital gaming, entertainment, and simulation.

For more information: Kentucky State University

#33 – Westmont College

Santa Barbara, California

School Profile

Points: 9
Enrollment: 1,300
Net Price: $32,645

Located in the hills just a few miles outside the city of Santa Barbara, Westmont College is an interdenominational Christian liberal arts school that offers a wide spectrum of degree opportunities. With recent endowments, Westmont has had the resources to build brand new science facilities and restore its already expansive campus library. This institution has over 65 study abroad partnerships, encouraging its students to become global, enlightened citizens. Westmont is consistently ranked among the best schools in the U.S. for its unique curriculum and return on investment upon graduation.

For more information: Westmont College

#32 – Brandeis University

Waltham, Massachusetts

Website

Points: 9
Enrollment: 3,729
Net Price: $26,367

Located just nine miles from Boston, Brandeis University is one of the youngest private research universities in the nation. The school’s innovative approach to teaching immerses students into an in-depth, interdisciplinary study of their chosen majors. Even first-year students are given unique leadership and research opportunities usually reserved for upper classmen and graduate students. Brandeis’ distinguished Ashton Graybiel Spatial Orientation Laboratory hosts research in the fields of human spatial orientation, motor control, and adaptation. Five other science research centers call Brandeis home as well including the National Center for Behavioral Genomics and the Rosenstiel Basic Medical Sciences Research Center.

For more information: Brandeis University

#31 – Juniata College

Huntingdon, Pennsylvania

School Profile

Points: 9
Enrollment: 1,632
Net Price: $25,883

With a vast array of internship opportunities, special interest majors, and award-winning faculty, Juniata College is a distinguished, progressive institution renowned for its hands-on learning experiences and highly marketable degrees. Over 90% of Juniata graduates are reportedly employed within 6 months of embarking on their careers. In addition to the stellar technological resources on the college’s 100-acre campus, there is a 365-acre Environmental Studies Field Station, which provides a powerful educational experience for those who wish to pursue this field.

For more information: Juniata College

#30 – Andrews University

Berrien Springs, Michigan

Website

Points: 9
Enrollment: 1,805
Net Price: $23,620

Andrews University is the most well-known Seventh Day Adventist university in the nation. The school is committed to providing students with an education that combines Christian principles with knowledge and skills that will prepare them for life in the 21st century. Andrews offers majors and minors in such areas as computer science, software systems, graphic design, and even aviation. U.S. News and World Report has recognized it as one of the most diverse schools in the country, making it an ideal place to prepare for work in a global marketplace.

For more information: Andrews University

#29 – Hamilton College

Clinton, New York

School Profile

Points: 9
Enrollment: 1,904
Net Price: $22,392

Hamilton College is renowned for its progressive approach to higher learning. This highly diverse college community encourages collaboration, independent thinking, creativity, and an ethical foundation in one’s intellectual development. Hamilton is highly invested in the advancement of its undergraduates, sponsoring over 220 research studies and internships in summer 2015 alone. One of this school’s most successful programs is in its sustainability department, where students engage in study of up to 11 subject areas of environmental science and protection.

For more information: Hamilton College

#28 – McMurry University

Abilene, Texas

Website

Points: 9
Enrollment: 1,007
Net Price: $19,305

McMurry University is a private liberal arts university situated on 52 acres of land in the heart of Abilene, Texas. The school offers 45 undergraduate majors including those in the social and natural sciences as well as pre-professional programs in engineering, medicine, and dentistry among others. The school is consistently ranked among the best in the nation by the U.S. News and World Report Best College Guide. Its Centennial Plan is a testament to the institution’s ongoing commitment to progress and technological advancement.

For more information: McMurray University

#27 – Johnson C. Smith University

Charlotte, North Carolina

School Profile

Points: 9
Enrollment: 1,375
Net Price: $19,032

Johnson C. Smith University is a historically black university located near downtown Charlotte. The school’s College of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics offers several degree options for undergraduates including Computer Engineering, Computer Science/Information Systems, and Information Systems Engineering. Currently undergoing expansion through the school-wide campaign, Tomorrow Is What We Make It, the College of STEM will receive a new Science Center as well as a remodel of existing facilities.

For more information: Johnson C. Smith University

#26 – Fort Valley State University

Fort Valley, Georgia

School Profile

Points: 9
Enrollment: 2,231
Net Price: $14,122

Fort Valley State University, a historically black school located 100 miles south of Atlanta, just celebrated its 120th anniversary, but has its eye on the future. In keeping with current technological advancements, the school offers many of its programs online and maintains an active social media presence. Fort Valley’s College of Agriculture, Family Sciences, and Technology houses some of the most contemporary laboratories in the state of Georgia, and professors are routinely securing grants to continue their cutting-edge research.

For more information: Fort Valley State University

#25 – Lander University

Greenwood, South Carolina

School Profile

Points: 9
Enrollment: 2,717
Net Price: $13,998

Located in the Piedmont of western South Carolina, Lander University is the second smallest public university in the state. The school’s College of Science and Mathematics attracts most of its undergraduates, offering programs in areas of study such as Computer Informations Systems, Information Technology, Engineering, and Environmental Science. Its engineering students maintain a 100% acceptance rate at nearby Clemson University. Lander also has a robust distance learning program, offering five of its degree programs entirely online.

For more information: Lander University

#24 – Emmanuel College

Boston, Massachusetts

School Profile

Points: 10
Enrollment: 2,311
Net Price: $32,294

Founded in 1919, Emmanuel College is a Catholic liberal arts and sciences college located in the heart of Boston. Through experiential learning opportunities, faculty-student research collaborations, service learning projects, and study abroad programs, Emmanuel stays on the cutting edge of higher education. The school offers over 40 undergraduate degree programs including standout options such as Graphic Design & Technology, Forensic Science, Biostatistics, Neuroscience, and Information Technology. Emmanuel also offers online learning programs in management, human resources, and research administration.

For more information: Emmanuel College

#23 – Colorado School of Mines

Golden, Colorado

Website

Points: 10
Enrollment: 4,456
Net Price: $25,138

Affectionately referred to as “Mines” by students and faculty, the Colorado School of Mines is a public research institution focused on technology and the sciences. Mines stands apart from other engineering schools in that it focuses on preservation of the planet’s resources. It is one of very few schools in the world to specialize in resource exploration, extraction, production, and utilization. In 2015, the school was recognized by U.S. News & World Report in the following publications: Top Public Schools, Best Engineering Graduate Schools, and Best National Universities.

For more information: Colorado School of Mines

#22 – Wofford College

Spartanburg, South Carolina

School Profile

Points: 10
Enrollment: 1,658
Net Price: $24,731

Centrally located in a southern college town that’s home to 5 other higher education institutions, Wofford College in Spartanburg, South Carolina is a small liberal arts college that has proven competitive in its technology offerings and degree opportunities. Wofford emphasizes the importance of maintaining relevancy in the rapidly evolving world of computer science, and with an 11:1 student-to-faculty ratio, there is opportunity to design a degree track tailored to your specialize interests. One of main campus attractions is the Roger Milliken Arboretum, a sprawling showcase of over 4,500 trees in representation of the college’s commitment to the importance of environmental science, education, and sustainability.

#21 – Millikin University

Decatur, Illinois

School Profile

Points: 10
Enrollment: 2,112
Net Price: $19,208

Founded in 1901, Millikin University is a private university offering degree programs in the arts and sciences, business, fine arts, and professional studies. Standout areas of study include actuary science, application development, data management, and digital media marketing. According to recent statistics, 96% of Millikin’s graduates were employed or accepted to graduate school six months after graduation. Its faculty employ a special set of experiential instructional methods collectively referred to as Performance Learning.

#20 – University of Mary Washington

Fredericksburg, Virginia

Website

Points: 10
Enrollment: 4,167
Net Price: $16,780

The University of Mary Washington recently added a new facility to its already impressive campus: the Information & Technology Convergence Center (ITCC) was completed in 2014 and serves as an academic commons for students and faculty. The building features a two-story media wall as well as a green screen production studio for the purposes of enabling students to explore new media. The facility is a focal point for the university’s commitment to providing a 21st century education to its students and fostering ongoing technological advancement.

For more information: University of Mary Washington

#19 – New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Soccorro, New Mexico

School Profile

Points: 10
Enrollment: 1,633
Net Price: $11,789

Also referred to as New Mexico Tech, New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology offers students 30 bachelor of science degree programs to choose from in technology, the sciences, and engineering. With a very reasonable tuition, the school is consistently ranked one of the best value schools in the country, but its quality has not gone unrecognized either. Newsweek has dubbed it one of the best small engineering schools in North America. The school’s mission is to improve the world through innovative, interdisciplinary research and education.

For more information: New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

#18 – St. Lawrence University

Canton, New York

School Profile

Points: 11
Enrollment: 2,317
Net Price: $30,938

St. Lawrence University is an award-winning private liberal arts college located on the south side of the Village of Canton. U.S. News and World Report has ranked the school as having the fourth highest paid graduates in the nation behind only Cornell, Harvard, and Yale University. Enrolled students can choose from 40 majors and 36 minors including computer science, biochemistry, environmental studies, and neuroscience. The school’s strong career services department ensures that 95% of graduates are placed in jobs or graduate school a year after commencement.

#17 – George Fox University

Newberg, Oregon

Website

Points: 11
Enrollment: 2,509
Net Price: $25,359

A nationally recognized Christian University in Oregon, George Fox offers bachelor’s degrees in over 40 areas of study including applied science, computer science, computer engineering, and cognitive science. In addition to its ongoing commitment to technological advancement, the school hosts a world-class study abroad program that emphasizes the importance of cultural awareness in the global marketplace. Its diverse student body is actively involved in service learning projects and volunteerism, using the 21st century skills they learn in the classroom to implement change today in their community and beyond.

For more information: George Fox University

#16 – Trinity College

Hartford, Connecticut

School Profile

Points: 11
Enrollment: 2,316
Net Price: $25,120

Founded in 1823, Trinity College is the second oldest college in Connecticut. Although it is a liberal arts college, the school places a special emphasis on technology and the sciences. In fact, the National Science Center has distinguished Trinity as a liberal arts college with a disproportionate number of future scientists. The school’s Interdisciplinary Science Program offers top students the opportunity to begin important scientific research as early as their freshman year. Trinity is also known for its high quality internship and study abroad programs.

#15 – Davidson College

Davidson, North Carolina

School Profile

Davidson College

Points: 11
Enrollment: 1,770
Net Price: $22,457

Located just north of Charlotte, North Carolina, Davidson College has recently begun on ongoing expansion and renovation to bring the best possible campus offerings to its student body. The college’s new facilities include state-of-the-art laboratory research centers, a complex dedicated entirely to biology and physics, the latest in chemistry instrumentation, enhanced library collections, an applied psychology building, and an advanced version of it pre-med program facility. Davidson is dedicated to providing an active, engaged academic community, as discovered in its wide selection of extra-curricular clubs and special interest activities.

For more information: Davidson College

#14 – Colgate University

Hamilton, New York

School Profile

Points: 11
Enrollment: 2,888
Net Price: $21,649

Founded in 1819, Colgate University in Hamilton, NY is known for its innovative approach to higher learning as well as its progressive philosophies in designing a curriculum path best for each student. This college offers a diverse array of specialized study opportunities that go far beyond the classroom setting. Colgate’s renowned summer research fellowship program is awarded to select science students who wish to work directly with faculty or with partnering research institutions to enhance their education. The university’s research partnerships include NASA, Cornell, and the Lampert Institute for Civic and Global Affairs.

For more information: Colgate University

#13 – Westminster College

New Wilmington, Pennsylvania

School Profile

Points: 11
Enrollment: 1,900
Net Price: $21,635

Westminster College, located just north of Pittsburgh in rural Pennsylvania, is designed for students who seek a small, progressive community and close-knit, personalized academic experience. This college was recently ranked first in the U.S. as the “Best College for Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM)”, a field long dominated by male degree holders. Just outside Westminster’s campus is a 100-acre outdoor laboratory, where students can immerse themselves in the studies of biology and environmental sciences.

For more information: Westminster College

#12 – Earlham College

Richmond, Indiana

Website

Points: 11
Enrollment: 1,076
Net Price: $20,589

With the unveiling of its brand new $16.6 million, 42,000 square-foot Center for Science and Technology, Earlham College is distinguishing itself as an even stronger name in STEM academics and research. The advanced technological offerings and other features of this complex are designed to be a reflection of the college’s commitment to a more collaborative, personalized approach to science education. The mathematics department has also received accolades for its international partnership opportunities, the most prominent of which is in Budapest, where one of the world’s greatest centers of mathematical research is found.

For more information: Earlham College

#11 – Union College

Schenectady, New York

Website

Points: 12
Enrollment: 2,242
Net Price: 33,826

Union College is a highly progressive academic institution that believes in the power of integrating fields of study through innovation. This method of learning is made possible through a vast range of available majors and specialized concentrations, research grants, modern technological resources, and dedicated staff. Some of Union’s most impressive facilities include the aerogel, the digital arts and rooftop energy lab, and the most advanced scientific instruments available today in academia. Each year, the diverse research of over 400 select students is presented in the competitive Steinmetz Symposium.

For more information: Union College

#10 – Wesleyan University

Middletown, Connecticut

School Profile

Points: 12
Enrollment: 3,224
Net Price: $24,156

Offering over 1,000 courses in 45 major fields of study, the prestigious Wesleyan University is highly respected for its impressive breadth of curriculum and commitment to utmost academic excellence. Some of the college’s campus highlights include its competitive multi-media library collections, an 11-building arts complex, and the recently unveiled Allbritton Center, which houses dedicated spaces to a wide range of specialized studies. The National Science Foundation has ranked Wesleyan first among all U.S. liberal arts institutions in federal funding for science and mathematics research.

For more information: Wesleyan University

#9 – Rice University

Houston, Texas

School Profile

Points: 12
Enrollment: 3,926
Net Price: $20,512

Formally known as William Rice Marsh University, Rice routinely receives distinctions as one of the top 20 higher education institutions in the United States. As an established research university, the school receives over $100 million in research funding each year. Rice is known for its work in applied science areas such as artificial heart research, signal processing, space science, and nanotechnology. In 2010, the Times Higher Education ranked Rice as the first in the world in materials science research.

For more information: Rice University

#8 – Colby College

Waterville, Maine

School Profile

Points: 12
Enrollment: 1,847
Net Price: $18,477

Colby College, located in scenic Waterville, Maine is made up of a small and highly diverse academic community with over 70 countries accounted for among its student body. This well-respected institution encourages collaboration in research between students and faculty, as demonstrated in its Presidential Scholars Program, Undergraduate Research Retreat, and other innovative opportunities designed to keep education continuously enriched. Colby’s students in neuroscience have recently gained recognition for their groundbreaking laboratory work in the areas of brain injuries and psychological disorders.

For more information: Colby College

#7 – United States Coast Guard Academy

New London, Connecticut

Website

Points: 12
Enrollment: 896
Net Price: Full Scholarship

Ranked among the most competitive undergraduate programs in the country, the United States Coast Guard Academy prides itself on providing a top-notch academic education in a military environment. Graduates are awarded a Bachelor of Science and a commission as an Ensign in the U.S. Coast Guard, both provided under full scholarship for all future cadets. The Academy ensures its officers are given the advanced resources needed to build confidence for critical roles in complex maritime information analysis.

For more information: United States Coast Guard Academy

#6 – Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester, Massachusetts

School Profile

Points: 13
Enrollment: 4,235
Net Price: $37,345

As the nation’s third oldest private technological university, Worcester Polytechnic Institute was founded in 1865 to advance the fields of science and engineering; today, it remains devoted to this cause. The institute is internationally recognized for breakthrough research in the fields of biotechnology, fuel cells, nanotechnology, and information security among others. Princeton Review’s most recent Best Colleges Guide recognized Worcester for its popular study abroad program and named it one of the best higher education institutions in the country.

For more information: Worcester Polytechnic Institute

#5 – Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, California

School Profile

Points:  13
Enrollment: 804
Net Price: $33,137

With one of the most well-respected Bachelor of Science degrees available in the country, Harvey Mudd College is a highly selective institution that ranks among the best educations a science student can receive. This college consistently receives accolades for its return on investment, state-of-the-art laboratory facilities, and award-winning faculty. Harvey Mudd’s clinic and research opportunities emphasize the importance of hands-on, experiential learning from the first day you begin your studies. The school’s mission is rooted in the philosophy that students should receive a well-rounded education in humanities and social sciences in tandem with their chosen specialization.

For more information: Harvey Mudd College

#4 – Clarkson University

Potsdam, New York

School Profile

Points: 13
Enrollment: 3,873
Net Price: $28,303

Recently ranked by USA Today as one of the “Top 10 Engineering Colleges in the U.S.” and among the “Top 50 Best Value Online MBA Programs” by Value Colleges, Clarkson University has maintained world-renowned leadership in academic excellence. This institution offers over fifty expansive programs of study in engineering, business, science, liberal arts, and health sciences. Its signature research initiatives have solidified successful contributions in the areas of advanced materials, biotechnology, environment and energy, entrepreneurship, and global supply chain management.

For more information: Clarkson University

#3 – Connecticut College

New London, Connecticut

School Profile

Points: 13
Enrollment: 1,900
Net Price: $24,152

Located on a beautifully landscaped 750-acre campus, Connecticut College is a leading educational institution in academic excellence. Its admission standards are consistently among the highest in the country, with 92% of their incoming students graduating near the top of their high school class. The college provides stellar research facilities in STEM-related fields, most of which include standard UNIX and PC labs, robotics, networks, virtual reality, and digital signal processing. Connecticut College is home to one of the first environmental science programs, and it has since evolved into a multi-faceted degree opportunity based in both natural and social sciences.

For more information: Connecticut College

#2 – Stevens Institute of Technology

Hoboken, New Jersey

Website

Points: 14
Enrollment: 2,892
Net Price: $31,492

Nicknamed The Innovation University, Stevens Institute of Technology has been devoted to the advancement of technology for the last 145 years. Home to three national research centers of excellence, Stevens’ faculty and students engage in breakthrough research in areas such as STEM education, coastal sustainability, healthcare, defense, and energy among others. The school’s 10-year strategic plan dubbed “The Future. Ours to Create” is a testament to the institute’s commitment to ongoing progress and expansion. Stevens has been consistently recognized for its engineering degree program and career services department by Princeton Review, U.S. World & News Report, and other noteworthy publications.

For more information: Stevens Institute of Technology

#1 – California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, California

School Profile

Points: 14
Enrollment: 2,209
Net Price: $26,910

Set on a 124-acre campus in Pasadena, California, the world renowned California Institute of Technology (CalTech) has produced some of the most accomplished science and technology scholars of our time. Counted among CalTech’s esteemed faculty and alumni are 33 Nobel Laureates, 58 Nobel Medal of Technology and Innovation recipients, and many more high honors in the STEM field. CalTech is made up of 6 academic divisions for research and education, each maintaining state of the art facilities to optimize cross-disciplinary opportunities.

For more information: California Institute of Technology