Top Environmental Engineering Colleges

As an environmental engineering major, you’ll learn the advanced scientific and design principles behind the development and maintenance of infrastructure, roads and bridges, energy systems, and waste management. To do so, you will take courses in math, chemistry, biology, physics as well as a strong dose of engineering courses such as Mechanics of Solids, Fluid Mechanics, and Thermodynamics.

Earning a degree in environmental engineering will prepare students for similar careers as civil engineers (programs are often linked) including: water and public health, private construction, government infrastructure, energy and power, and in the transportation industry.

What do you need to make it in an Environmental Engineering program?

Future environmental engineers need to be extremely strong students of advanced mathematics and the sciences. Additionally, because many environmental engineers work in collaborative teams problem-solving, interpersonal communication skills are also essential.

Your Environmental Engineering College Checklist:

• Do undergraduate students have access to the premier laboratories or are they reserved for graduate/Ph.D. students?
• What independent project(s) or independent research are required as part of the degree?
• Since many environmental engineers hold advanced degrees, how do graduate schools view the undergraduate institutions you are considering?
• How is your prospective college viewed by employers in the field?
• What is the professional background of the faculty? Do they have direct connections to industry?
• Do they offer a combined Bachelor's/Master's program in environmental engineering?
• What internship opportunities are available to undergraduates?
• Do they have the most up-to-date computers and technology that help prepare students for the cutting edge aspects of the field?

The Top Environmental Engineering Colleges & Universities

Environmental Engineering is a competitive field and finding the right college and program is often key to landing a good job. Schools that are held in particularly high regard by professionals, employers and students include: University of California, Berkeley, the University of Texas at Austin, and Virginia Tech. For a complete list of College Transitions Top Environmental Engineering Colleges and Universities, click here.

*College lists are compiled on the basis of counselor interviews, guide books, exhaustive internet searches (of college and departmental websites), and data provided by The College Board and the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS).