Pennsylvania Engineering Schools

Pennsylvania offers a rich blend of historic academic institutions, cutting-edge research, and strong connections to major industries in manufacturing, energy, technology, and healthcare. With both urban and rural campuses, engineering students in Pennsylvania benefit from rigorous programs, internship opportunities, and access to one of the most diverse engineering markets in the U.S.

Why Study Engineering in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is an ideal state for engineering students seeking a blend of academic excellence, industry access, and post-graduate opportunity. The state’s universities offer a range of engineering disciplines supported by research funding and industry collaboration.

Here’s why Pennsylvania stands out:

  • Top-ranked engineering programs at public and private universities

  • Access to major employers in manufacturing, energy, infrastructure, and biotechnology

  • Hands-on learning through research centers, co-ops, and internship programs

  • Diverse campus settings—from urban tech hubs to traditional college towns

  • Career pipelines into a broad range of types of engineering jobs across the Mid-Atlantic and beyond

Some of the Top Engineering Schools in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is home to a wide variety of engineering institutions, from Ivy League and elite research universities to respected liberal arts colleges with strong technical programs. Below are some of the top engineering schools in the state. For a full overview, see the ABET-accredited programs section at the end of this profile.

 

University of Pennsylvania School of Engineering and Applied Science

Penn Engineering is a hub of cross-disciplinary research and innovation, leveraging its Ivy League setting to create real-world impact through collaborative education and cutting-edge technology. The school integrates engineering with medicine, business, and design to tackle complex societal challenges and drive discovery across domains.

  • Program Areas and Degree Levels:

    • Undergraduate and Graduate Programs offered through six departments:

      • Bioengineering

      • Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

      • Computer and Information Science

      • Electrical and Systems Engineering

      • Materials Science and Engineering

      • Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics

    • Additional programs include the Rajendra and Neera Singh Program in Artificial Intelligence, the VIPER dual-degree initiative, and numerous interdisciplinary certificates.

    • Graduate offerings include Master of Science in Engineering (MSE), Master of Computer and Information Technology (MCIT), and PhD programs.

  • Research and Innovation:

    • Over 30 interdisciplinary research centers and labs, including the GRASP Lab and the Singh Center for Nanotechnology.

    • Focus areas include robotics, bioengineering, AI and machine learning, health technologies, and sustainable design.

    • Faculty innovations have led to more than 100 active patents.

    • The school has historic contributions to computing, including the development of ENIAC.

  • Engagement and Opportunities:

    • Approximately 60% of undergraduates participate in research.

    • Students benefit from strong alumni networks, industry partnerships, and dedicated career services, with 89% receiving job offers before graduation.

    • Emphasis on responsible innovation ensures technology developed is ethical and socially beneficial.

About the University

The University of Pennsylvania is a private Ivy League institution located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. With a longstanding emphasis on interdisciplinary education and research, Penn fosters a collaborative environment where engineering solutions are informed by broader social, ethical, and economic contexts.

 

Carnegie Mellon University College of Engineering

Carnegie Mellon’s College of Engineering is globally recognized for its interdisciplinary research, practical innovation, and collaborative “maker” culture. The college brings together diverse teams to address the world’s most complex engineering challenges through rigorous education and pioneering research. Its integration of engineering with computing, data science, public policy, and biomedical sciences makes it a hub of transformative outcomes across industry and society.

  • Program Areas and Degree Levels:

    • Offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees across the following departments:

      • Biomedical Engineering

      • Chemical Engineering

      • Civil and Environmental Engineering

      • Electrical and Computer Engineering

      • Engineering and Public Policy

      • Materials Science and Engineering

      • Mechanical Engineering

    • Additional interdisciplinary programs and online graduate certificates are available in areas such as AI engineering, 3D bioprinting, and digital twin technology.

  • Unique Learning Opportunities:

    • Emphasis on hands-on learning and student-driven projects, from robotics to energy systems.

    • Advanced initiatives like the NSF CAREER Award Program, Goldwater Scholarships, and graduate fellowships support high-achieving students.

    • Graduate certificates designed for working professionals address rapidly evolving technological fields.

  • Research and Innovation:

    • The College is home to the Manufacturing Futures Institute and multiple labs such as the Robotic Innovation Center and the GRASP Lab.

    • Faculty and students engage in high-impact research in areas like environmental sustainability, bioprinting, and AI-driven manufacturing.

    • Known for innovations such as the world’s smallest autonomous bipedal robot and AI systems like LegoGPT for structural design.

About the University

Carnegie Mellon University is a private research university located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Renowned for its strengths in engineering, computer science, and the arts, CMU fosters a forward-thinking environment that emphasizes collaboration, creativity, and real-world impact. The university's urban setting and global reach offer students broad exposure to academic, entrepreneurial, and industry partnerships.

 

Villanova University College of Engineering

Villanova’s College of Engineering blends technical education with a values-based approach grounded in its Augustinian Catholic tradition. The college offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and certificate programs through four academic departments, emphasizing hands-on learning, ethical responsibility, and global impact.

  • Program Areas and Degree Levels:

    • Undergraduate: BS degrees in Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, and Mechanical Engineering, with an option to pursue a five-year BS/MS dual degree.

    • Graduate: MS programs offered on-campus and online in 12 areas including the recently launched MS in Aerospace Engineering.

    • Doctoral: PhD in Engineering for highly qualified students pursuing careers in academia, industry, or government.

    • Certificates: Over 15 graduate certificate options, most available fully online.

  • Key Features and Opportunities:

    • Experiential Learning: Students engage in research, service learning, and entrepreneurial initiatives.

    • Career Preparation: The college boasts a 98.2% undergraduate placement rate and robust internship support.

    • Research: Faculty and students contribute to advancements through seven research centers and several specialty areas.

    • Notable Additions: A new MS in Aerospace Engineering featuring applied courses in space flight mechanics and flight dynamics, taught by faculty with deep industry ties.

  • Academic Environment:

    • Small class sizes and strong faculty mentorship support a collaborative and impactful learning experience.

    • The college emphasizes sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility in line with its mission of Veritas, Unitas, Caritas (Truth, Unity, Charity).

About the University

Villanova University is a private Catholic research university located in Villanova, Pennsylvania. Known for its commitment to academic excellence and community values, Villanova provides a supportive, mission-driven environment where students are encouraged to grow intellectually and personally.

 

Lehigh University P.C. Rossin College of Engineering & Applied Science

Lehigh University’s P.C. Rossin College of Engineering and Applied Science emphasizes experiential learning and interdisciplinary collaboration. The college offers a full suite of undergraduate and graduate degrees across a broad array of engineering disciplines and supports a dynamic culture of research and innovation.

  • Program Areas and Degree Levels:

    • Undergraduate: Degrees are available in disciplines such as Bioengineering, Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Computer Science and Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Industrial and Systems Engineering, Materials Science and Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering and Mechanics.

    • Graduate: Master’s and doctoral programs are offered in all major engineering fields, with research opportunities spanning high-impact areas and emerging technologies.

    • Interdisciplinary Options: Unique programs such as the IDEAS honors program and initiatives like the Future Academic Career Experiential Training (FACET) provide flexible and innovative academic pathways.

  • Key Features and Opportunities:

    • Experiential Learning: Lehigh emphasizes real-world experience through lab work, internships, global social impact fellowships, and research partnerships.

    • Research Ecosystem: The college hosts three Interdisciplinary Research Institutes (IRI): the Institute for Functional Materials and Devices (I-FMD), the Institute for Data, Intelligent Systems, and Computation (I-DISC), and the Institute for Cyber Physical Infrastructure and Energy (I-CPIE).

    • Faculty Expertise and Recognition: Faculty members frequently earn prestigious awards such as NSF CAREER grants and Fulbright Scholarships, and students have access to cutting-edge research facilities and mentorship.

  • Student Support and Engagement:

    • Students engage in hands-on research early and often, supported by a network of student-focused programs and services.

    • Lehigh’s collaborative campus and strong alumni network contribute to high levels of student success and job readiness.

About the University

Lehigh University is a private research university located in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. It is known for its rigorous academics, vibrant research environment, and close-knit community. The university combines the resources of a large institution with the personal attention of a smaller one, all set within the scenic Lehigh Valley.

 

Bucknell University College of Engineering

Bucknell University's College of Engineering offers a distinctive undergraduate-focused engineering education that emphasizes hands-on learning, interdisciplinary collaboration, and close faculty mentorship. With eight ABET-accredited undergraduate programs, as well as graduate and dual-degree options, Bucknell positions its students to engage with real-world challenges from their very first semester.

  • Program Areas and Degree Levels:

    • Undergraduate Programs: Offered in Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil & Environmental Engineering, Computer Science, Electrical & Computer Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.

    • Graduate Options: The college offers select graduate-level programs and a five-year dual degree path for students looking to deepen or broaden their expertise.

  • Key Features and Opportunities:

    • Hands-On Learning: Students work on authentic projects with corporate, government, and nonprofit partners throughout their education.

    • Signature Programs: These include living-learning experiences, outreach initiatives for high school students and educators, and innovative research opportunities outside traditional classroom settings.

    • Centers for Excellence: New interdisciplinary hubs such as the Dominguez Center for Data Science and the Perricelli-Gegnas Center for Entrepreneurship & Innovation support experiential learning across data literacy and entrepreneurial thinking.

  • Accreditation: All eight undergraduate engineering programs are accredited by ABET, ensuring rigorous academic standards and professional relevance.

  • Career Integration: Bucknell’s partnerships with external organizations foster experiential education, giving students early exposure to professional engineering contexts.

About the University

Bucknell University is a private liberal arts institution located in Lewisburg, Pennsylvania. Known for its student-centered approach and strong undergraduate programs, Bucknell combines the breadth of a liberal arts education with the depth of professional and pre-professional training.

 

Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) College of Engineering

Penn State’s College of Engineering offers one of the largest and most comprehensive engineering programs in the country, emphasizing hands-on learning, interdisciplinary research, and real-world impact. With over 12,500 students and a growing portfolio of research and academic initiatives, the college prepares students to engineer solutions to some of the world's most pressing problems.

  • Program Areas and Degree Levels:

    • Undergraduate Programs: More than a dozen majors at the University Park campus, with additional offerings at other Penn State locations. Programs begin with design-focused coursework and culminate in a capstone project.

    • Graduate Programs: Over 50 program options across 20+ disciplines, including professionally focused and research-based degrees, minors, and certificates. Areas of study range from Aerospace Engineering to Additive Manufacturing, Environmental Engineering, and Engineering Leadership.

  • Key Features and Opportunities:

    • Co-Curricular Experiences: Students can engage in study abroad, internships, research, and outreach projects to deepen learning and expand career readiness.

    • State-of-the-Art Facilities: A multi-year capital expansion includes the Engineering Collaborative Research and Education Building and the Engineering Design and Innovation Building, forming a new engineering hub on West Campus.

    • Equity and Inclusion: Guided by a college-wide Equity Action Plan, the community prioritizes diversity, access, and a culture of belonging for all.

  • Research and Partnerships: With nearly $150 million in annual research expenditures, the college fosters deep industry engagement and innovation across sectors including medical training, semiconductors, sustainability, and advanced manufacturing.

  • Global Network: The college boasts over 104,000 engineering alumni and a strong record of graduate placement and collaboration worldwide.

About the University

Penn State is a public land-grant university located in University Park, Pennsylvania. It is widely recognized for academic excellence, a powerful alumni network, and a collaborative campus culture. The university anchors its engineering mission in values of excellence, equity, sustainability, and social mobility, aiming to “engineer what’s next” for society.

Engineering Scholarships and Financial Aid in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania offers a wide range of scholarships and financial aid options for engineering students, including state-funded programs, institutional awards, and need-based grants. These resources help reduce the cost of education and support students pursuing careers in high-demand technical fields.

Statewide Financial Aid Programs

  • Pennsylvania Engineering Foundation (PEF) Scholarships — Administered by the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers, PEF offers annual scholarships to high school seniors entering ABET-accredited engineering programs. Awards are based on academic achievement and extracurricular involvement.

  • ACEC/PA Scholarship Program — The American Council of Engineering Companies of Pennsylvania awards at least one $2,500 scholarship annually to qualified engineering students who are U.S. citizens and currently sophomores, juniors, or seniors pursuing a bachelor's degree in engineering, science, or construction management.

University-Specific Scholarships

University of Pennsylvania

  • Undergraduate Grants and Scholarships — Penn offers need-based financial aid packages that meet 100% of demonstrated need without loans, ensuring that students can graduate debt-free.

  • Dean’s Master’s Scholarship — Provides financial support to Penn Engineering Online Master’s students to attract a diverse and academically talented student body.

Carnegie Mellon University

  • ARCS Scholarships — The Achievement Rewards for College Scientists Foundation provides scholarships to academically outstanding U.S. citizens pursuing degrees in science, medicine, and engineering.

  • Scholarships & Grants — CMU offers a variety of scholarships and grants for undergraduate students based on financial need and merit.

Villanova University

  • Scholarships and Grants — Villanova provides both merit-based scholarships and need-based grants to eligible students.

  • Presidential Scholars Program — A renewable, merit-based award covering full tuition, room, board, and textbooks for students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership.

Lehigh University

  • Merit Scholarships — Lehigh offers merit-based scholarships to undergraduate students based on academic excellence and other factors.

  • Graduate Financial Support — Provides information on fellowships, scholarships, and assistantships available to graduate engineering students.

Bucknell University

Pennsylvania State University

Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) early to maximize eligibility for both federal and state aid programs.

Engineering Licensure and Other Resources in Pennsylvania

Students who plan to become licensed professional engineers in Pennsylvania must follow the state’s guidelines for education, exams, and professional experience. Local engineering societies also provide mentorship, advocacy, and career support for students and professionals alike.

Key Resources:

These organizations are excellent resources for both current students and licensed professionals to stay engaged in their field and grow their engineering careers.

FAQs About Engineering Education in Pennsylvania

What engineering disciplines are most in demand in Pennsylvania?

Civil, mechanical, biomedical, electrical, and environmental engineering are highly sought-after due to Pennsylvania’s infrastructure needs, healthcare innovation, and robust manufacturing sector.

Can I earn an engineering degree online in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Students in Pennsylvania can pursue flexible options such as an online engineering bachelor's degree or an online engineering master's degree, which are ideal for working professionals or those needing more flexibility.

Do Pennsylvania schools offer internships and co-op programs?

Absolutely. Institutions like Penn State, Carnegie Mellon, and Lehigh have extensive partnerships with local and national companies, offering strong internship and co-op pipelines for engineering students.

What support services are available for engineering students?

Students benefit from career advising, academic support, faculty mentorship, and participation in student chapters of organizations like ASCE, IEEE, and NSBE. Many programs also provide undergraduate research opportunities.

ABET-Accredited Engineering Programs in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania is home to numerous ABET-accredited engineering schools offering rigorous programs recognized for their quality and alignment with industry and licensure standards. These programs are ideal for students pursuing careers in engineering and related technical fields.

Bucknell University Lewisburg - Biomedical Engineering

- Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Computer Science

- Computer Science and Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Environmental Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Carnegie Mellon University Pittsburgh - Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Electrical and Computer Engineering

- Engineering and Public Policy

- Materials Science and Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Commonwealth University of Pennsylvania Bloomsburg - Computer Science

- Electronics Engineering Technology

Drexel University Philadelphia - Architectural Engineering

- Biomedical Engineering

- Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Engineering Technology

- Environmental Engineering

- Materials Science and Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Duquesne University Pittsburgh - Biomedical Engineering
East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania East Stroudsburg - Computer Science
Elizabethtown College Elizabethtown - Engineering
Gannon University Erie - Biomedical Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Computer Science

- Cyber Engineering

- Cybersecurity

- Electrical Engineering

- Environmental Engineering

- Industrial and Robotics Engineering

- Information Systems

- Mechanical Engineering

- Software Engineering

Geneva College Beaver Falls - Engineering
Grove City College Grove City - Computer Science

- Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Harrisburg University of Science and Technology Harrisburg - Computer and Information Sciences (CISC)
Indiana University of Pennsylvania Indiana - Computer Science Languages and Systems Track

- Safety, Health and Environmental Applied Sciences

King's College Wilkes Barre - Civil Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Kutztown University of Pennsylvania Kutztown - Computer Science

- Information Technology

Lafayette College Easton - Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Science

- Electrical and Computer Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Lehigh University Bethlehem - Bioengineering

- Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Computer Science and Business

- Computer Science in the College of Arts and Science

- Computer Science in the College of Engineering and Applied Science

- Electrical Engineering

- Environmental Engineering

- Industrial and Systems Engineering

- Materials Science and Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Messiah University Mechanicsburg - Biomedical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Millersville University of Pennsylvania Millersville - Computer Science

- Occupational Safety & Environmental Health

Pennsylvania College of Technology Williamsport - Civil Engineering Technology

- Electronics and Computer Engineering Technology

- Plastics and Polymer Engineering Technology

- Plastics and Polymer Technology

- Welding and Fabrication Engineering Technology

- Welding Technology

Pennsylvania State University, Altoona Campus Altoona - Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology

- Rail Transportation Engineering

Pennsylvania State University, Behrend College Erie - Computer Engineering

- Computer Science

- Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology

- Electrical Engineering

- Electrical Engineering Technology

- Industrial Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering Technology

- Plastics Engineering Technology

- Software Engineering

Pennsylvania State University, Berks Campus Reading - Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology

- Mechanical Engineering

Pennsylvania State University, Harrisburg Middletown - Civil Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Electrical Engineering Technology

- Mechanical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering Technology

- Structural Design and Construction Engineering Technology

Point Park University Pittsburgh - Civil Engineering Technology

- Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Robert Morris University Moon Township - Computer Information Systems

- Cybersecurity & Digital Forensics

- Engineering

- Manufacturing Engineering

Saint Francis University Loretto - Engineering - General

- Environmental Engineering

Saint Vincent College Latrobe - Engineering
Shippensburg University Shippensburg - Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Computer Science

- Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Software Engineering

Slippery Rock University Slippery Rock - Civil Engineering

- Computing

- Industrial and Systems Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering

Swarthmore College Swarthmore - Engineering
Temple University Philadelphia - Bioengineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Construction Engineering Technology

- Electrical Engineering

- Engineering

- Engineering Technology (General)

- Environmental Engineering

- Facilities Management

- Industrial & Systems Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

The Pennsylvania State University University Park - Aerospace Engineering

- Agricultural and Biological Engineering

- Architectural Engineering

- Biological Engineering

- Biomedical Engineering

- Biomedical Engineering Technology

- Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Computer Science

- Electrical and Computer Engineering Technology

- Electrical Engineering

- Electrical Engineering Technology

- Electro-Mechanical Engineering Technology

- Energy Engineering

- Engineering

- Engineering Science(s)

- Environmental Systems Engineering

- Industrial Engineering

- Materials Science and Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering Technology

- Mining Engineering

- Nuclear Engineering

- Petroleum and Natural Gas Engineering

- Surveying Engineering

- Surveying Engineering Technology

Thomas Jefferson University Philadelphia - Construction Management

- Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

University of Pennsylvania Philadelphia - Bioengineering

- Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Computer Science

- Electrical Engineering

- Materials Science and Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering and Applied Mechanics

- Systems Science and Engineering

University of Pittsburgh Pittsburgh - Bioengineering

- Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Engineering Science

- Environmental Engineering

- Industrial Engineering

- Materials Science and Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

University of Pittsburgh at Johnstown Johnstown - Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

University of Scranton Scranton - Applied Computing

- Computer Engineering

- Computer Science

- Electrical Engineering

Villanova University Villanova - Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

West Chester University of Pennsylvania West Chester - Biomedical Engineering

- Computer Science

Widener University Chester - Biomedical Engineering

- Chemical Engineering

- Civil Engineering

- Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

- Robotics Engineering

Wilkes University Wilkes-Barre - Electrical Engineering

- Environmental Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

York College of Pennsylvania York - Civil Engineering

- Computer Engineering

- Computer Science

- Electrical Engineering

- Mechanical Engineering

Note: The list of ABET-accredited engineering programs in Pennsylvania was compiled in 2025. Because program offerings and accreditation statuses may change, readers are encouraged to visit the ABET official website and the individual university websites linked above for the most current information. Additional guidance can be found through the Pennsylvania State Board and the Pennsylvania Society of Professional Engineers.

 


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