Best Engineering Colleges in Illinois
With its excellent academic institutions, Illinois offers prospective engineering students a wealth of opportunities for a world-class education. This article dives deep into the engineering programs offered by several notable colleges in Illinois: The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Grainger), Northwestern University, University of Illinois–Chicago, Illinois Institute of Technology, Southern Illinois University–Carbondale, and the University of Chicago. We’ll explore their engineering programs, annual costs, enrollment, and SAT score ranges. Additionally, we will briefly discuss top engineering colleges in neighboring states like Iowa, Michigan, and Indiana and provide tips on preparing for the SAT independently.
The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Grainger)
Information About Engineering Programs
The Grainger College of Engineering at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) is recognized worldwide for its innovative and extensive engineering programs. It offers various undergraduate and graduate degrees in various disciplines, including Aerospace Engineering, Bioengineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Computer Engineering, Electrical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The estimated annual cost for in-state students at UIUC, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is approximately $31,194. For out-of-state students, the cost rises to about $49,308.
In Fall 2022, UIUC had a total enrollment of approximately 51,605 students. The middle 50% SAT score range for admitted students was between 1220 and 1480.
Northwestern University
Information About Engineering Programs
Northwestern University’s McCormick School of Engineering is known for its commitment to innovative teaching and pioneering research. It offers a range of programs, including Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The estimated annual cost at Northwestern University, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is about $76,317.
As of Fall 2022, total enrollment was about 22,127. The middle 50% SAT score range for admitted students was between 1440 and 1550.
University of Illinois–Chicago
Information About Engineering Programs
The University of Illinois–Chicago (UIC) offers engineering programs through the College of Engineering, providing opportunities in Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Civil and Materials Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Mechanical and Industrial Engineering.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The estimated annual cost for in-state students at UIC, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is approximately $30,664. For out-of-state students, the cost rises to about $41,734.
In Fall 2022, total enrollment was around 33,518. The middle 50% SAT score range for admitted students was between 1020 and 1220.
Illinois Institute of Technology
Information About Engineering Programs
The Armour College of Engineering at the Illinois Institute of Technology offers Biomedical Engineering, Chemical and Biological Engineering, Civil, Architectural, Environmental Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Mechanical, Materials, and Aerospace Engineering programs.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The estimated annual cost at the Illinois Institute of Technology, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is approximately $65,452.
As of Fall 2022, the total enrollment was approximately 6,753. The middle 50% SAT score range for admitted students was between 1220 and 1390.
Southern Illinois University–Carbondale
Information About Engineering Programs
The College of Engineering at Southern Illinois University–Carbondale offers a variety of programs, including Civil and Environmental Engineering, Electrical, and Computer Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Energy Processes, and Mining and Mineral Resources Engineering.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The estimated annual cost for in-state students, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is approximately $27,674. For out-of-state students, the cost is about $42,674.
In Fall 2022, the total enrollment was approximately 11,695. The middle 50% SAT score range for admitted students was between 980 and 1190.
University of Chicago
Information About Engineering Programs
The University of Chicago, while not traditionally known for engineering, does offer opportunities in this field. For example, the university’s Department of Computer Science offers a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Engineering.
Annual Cost, Enrollment, and SAT Range
The estimated annual cost at the University of Chicago, including tuition, fees, room, and board, is about $80,277.
In Fall 2022, the total enrollment was approximately 17,002. The middle 50% SAT score range for admitted students was between 1500 and 1560.
Best Engineering Colleges in Three Other States
Best Engineering Colleges in Iowa
The University of Iowa and Iowa State University are renowned for their engineering programs.
Best Engineering Colleges in Michigan
In Michigan, the University of Michigan–Ann Arbor and Michigan State University are recognized for their outstanding engineering programs.
Best Engineering Colleges in Indiana
Purdue University and Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology are well-known for their engineering programs in Indiana.
How to Prepare for the SAT On Your Own
Preparing for the SAT independently requires discipline, a study plan, and the right resources. Key strategies include familiarizing yourself with the test format, reviewing fundamental concepts, practicing with official SAT practice tests, and analyzing your mistakes to identify areas of improvement. Use resources like Khan Academy, which offers free SAT prep, and College Board’s Official SAT Study Guide.
In conclusion, Illinois offers a wide array of exceptional engineering programs. Prospective students should thoroughly research these programs, consider the costs, and ensure they meet enrollment requirements. Simultaneously, students should prepare diligently for the SAT to enhance their chances of admission to these prestigious institutions.
