Rankings / Value

Best ROI Colleges for Electrical Engineering

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 50 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$93,069

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

87%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$22,001

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right college for electrical engineering can feel overwhelming, especially when weighing potential return on investment. With graduates earning an average of $93,407, it's clear that this field can lead to lucrative opportunities.

What sets these schools apart is their impressive outcomes in areas like graduation rates, earnings, and manageable debt levels. The schools listed below have shown strong performance, with graduation rates averaging 89% and varying levels of debt that impact long-term financial health.

For instance, Massachusetts Institute of Technology stands out with an average earning of $143,372, while Johns Hopkins University, although still strong, has earnings of $87,555. This contrast highlights the tradeoffs students and families must consider when selecting a program with the best return on investment.

Key Findings

MIT graduates earn an average of $143,372, the highest on this list.

Princeton University has a low net price of $6,128, making it financially accessible.

The average graduation rate among these schools is 89%, indicating strong student support.

The United States Merchant Marine Academy offers lower debt at $8,833 compared to other institutions.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $93,069

Avg. graduation rate 87%

Avg. net price $22,001

Avg. median debt $18,282

How We Ranked

Ranked by return on investment with program concentration in Engineering

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA

Graduation96%

Earnings$143,372

Net Price$20,111

View full profile →

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Graduation97%

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

With a staggering graduation rate of 96%, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is a hub for students passionate about science, engineering, and innovation. The school cultivates a rigorous academic environment where collaboration and problem-solving are at the forefront, making it an exciting choice for those ready to push boundaries.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University is known for its intimate learning environment and commitment to undergraduate education, reflected in a remarkable 97% graduation rate. Students here engage deeply with faculty and peers in a setting that encourages intellectual exploration, making it an attractive choice for those looking to make meaningful connections and contributions in their fields.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford University’s vibrant campus culture and emphasis on interdisciplinary studies make it a noteworthy option for ambitious students. With a graduation rate of 92%, Stanford nurtures a dynamic community where students are encouraged to innovate and collaborate across various fields, setting the stage for exciting career paths.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 94%, Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore is a strong contender for students aiming for a rigorous academic environment. The university's commitment to research and innovation is evident in its robust funding and resources, making it a hub for aspiring scientists, engineers, and healthcare professionals.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Georgia Institute of Technology, located in Atlanta, is a public university known for its strong engineering and technology programs. With a graduation rate of 93%, it attracts a diverse group of students eager to learn in a vibrant urban setting, where industry connections can enhance career opportunities.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

California Institute of Technology, often known as Caltech, is an elite institution in Pasadena, focusing heavily on science and engineering. With a small student body of just 987, Caltech fosters close collaboration among students and faculty, creating an intimate learning environment where innovation thrives.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University in Houston is known for its exceptional academic programs and a close-knit community of just under 5,000 students. With a 95% graduation rate, it emphasizes not just academic success but also personal growth, making it a great choice for those looking for a supportive and engaging campus atmosphere.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University, located in the scenic hills of Ithaca, New York, attracts students with its rich academic offerings and a diverse campus culture. With a graduation rate of 95%, Cornell emphasizes not only education but also personal growth through its myriad of extracurricular activities and research opportunities that prepare students for future success.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University is renowned for its rigorous academics and exceptional resources, cultivating leaders across various fields. With a 97% graduation rate, students here are prepared not just to succeed but to excel in their future careers, as evidenced by median earnings of $101,817 ten years post-graduation. The opportunities for networking and growth are unmatched, helping students forge valuable connections that often last a lifetime.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#10

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University in Durham, North Carolina, is known for its strong sense of community and academic rigor. The 96% graduation rate speaks volumes about student support and engagement, creating an environment where students can excel both personally and academically as they pursue their passions.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Nashville's Vanderbilt University is known for its commitment to academic excellence and a close-knit community. With a graduation rate of 93%, students benefit from supportive faculty and resources that enable them to thrive in their studies, all while enjoying the vibrant culture of Music City right outside their door.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#12

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 97%, the University of Pennsylvania is a beacon of academic success in Philadelphia. Students here engage in a vibrant community that values both rigorous learning and social impact, all while being part of an institution that emphasizes research and entrepreneurship.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

#13

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has a 93% graduation rate, reflecting its dedication to student success and support. Known for its strong emphasis on technology and the arts, this university attracts innovative thinkers who seek to push boundaries. With a smaller student population of around 7,300, students often find a collaborative and engaging atmosphere that encourages personal and academic growth.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

#14

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

With a 91% graduation rate, the University of Florida is a solid choice for students aiming for successful outcomes. Its large campus in Gainesville, home to over 35,000 students, cultivates a vibrant community and offers diverse academic programs that cater to a wide range of interests. The school’s commitment to accessibility is clear, with 22% of students receiving Pell Grants, highlighting its focus on supporting those from lower-income backgrounds.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

#15

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art has a unique mission focused on providing a rigorous education in engineering and the arts. Despite its smaller size, with only 842 students, the school maintains an impressive graduation rate of 81% and a healthy median earning of $83,847 ten years post-graduation, indicating strong career outcomes for its graduates.

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 96%, Brown University cultivates an environment where students can thrive academically and personally. The flexible curriculum encourages exploration, allowing students to shape their education according to their interests and passions. Graduates see substantial returns on their investment, with median earnings of $93,487 ten years after graduation.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the scenic town of Hanover, Dartmouth College offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and close-knit community spirit. With a graduation rate of 96%, students are not only well-prepared for the workforce but also enjoy median earnings of $97,434 within a decade of graduation. This strong financial outcome highlights the college's commitment to fostering success among its students.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#18

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

At Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois, students benefit from a 96% graduation rate that speaks volumes about its supportive environment. With a smaller student body of about 9,200, Northwestern fosters close-knit relationships among peers and faculty, enhancing the overall educational experience. The university's emphasis on interdisciplinary learning attracts driven students eager to explore diverse fields and collaborate across disciplines.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#19

Washington University in St Louis

St. Louis, MO · 7,857 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 94%, Washington University in St. Louis is a strong choice for students seeking a supportive academic environment. The university's median earnings of $86,182 a decade after graduation showcase its commitment to equipping students with the skills and connections needed for successful careers.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#20

Columbia University in the City of New York

New York, NY · 8,973 students · Private nonprofit

Columbia University is situated in the heart of New York City, making it an ideal place for students seeking an urban experience. With a graduation rate of 96%, this private nonprofit institution draws in a diverse array of students, including 23% who are Pell Grant recipients, highlighting its commitment to accessibility and inclusion.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#21

Yale University

New Haven, CT · 6,758 students · Private nonprofit

Yale University is a prestigious institution that offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and a close-knit community. With a graduation rate of 96% and a low acceptance rate of 4%, Yale attracts highly motivated students. Notably, around 20% of its student body are Pell Grant recipients, highlighting its commitment to socio-economic diversity and inclusion within its elite environment.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM · 995 students · Public

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology is a smaller institution with a unique focus on engineering and the sciences, attracting about 1,000 students. Despite a graduation rate of just 57%, those who do complete their degrees earn a respectable median salary of $76,489 a decade later, reflecting the specialized training offered here in areas like geosciences and mining engineering.

44% accepted 57% graduate $76,489 earnings

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

New Jersey Institute of Technology is a hub for aspiring engineers and architects, boasting a robust graduation rate of 73%. With a student population of about 9,000, NJIT emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications, making it a strong choice for hands-on learners eager to make their mark in technical fields.

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Lafayette College, with a graduation rate of 88% and median earnings of $91,410 ten years post-graduation, cultivates a close-knit community that emphasizes both academic excellence and personal growth. The college's smaller size allows for personalized attention from faculty, fostering an environment where students can thrive and develop lasting relationships.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#25

SUNY Maritime College

Throggs Neck, NY · 1,285 students · Public

SUNY Maritime College offers a unique experience on the waterfront, blending education with hands-on training in maritime and engineering disciplines. With a smaller student population of just 1,285, the college fosters a tight-knit community where personal connections can flourish, and a graduation rate of 70% reflects the focused environment.

72% accepted 70% graduate $95,951 earnings

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, IN · 8,818 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in the heart of Indiana, the University of Notre Dame is renowned for its strong academic programs and vibrant campus life. The impressive 96% graduation rate suggests that students here are well-supported and engaged, which is further reflected in the relatively low acceptance rate of 11%, indicating a competitive admissions process that finds students who are truly dedicated.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#27

Swarthmore College

Swarthmore, PA · 1,613 students · Private nonprofit

Swarthmore College, with a remarkable 93% graduation rate, is committed to academic excellence and the holistic development of its students. The college's intimate setting allows for deep intellectual engagement and meaningful faculty-student relationships. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $80,257 a decade after receiving their degrees, reflecting the school’s strong emphasis on critical thinking and social responsibility.

7% accepted 93% graduate $80,257 earnings

Swarthmore's full profile

#28

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Lexington, Virginia, Washington and Lee University is a small, private nonprofit institution with a tight-knit community of just 1,881 students. With a graduation rate of 94%, this university promotes a rigorous academic environment that encourages collaboration and personal growth among its students.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#29

Colorado School of Mines

Golden, CO · 6,155 students · Public

In Golden, Colorado, the Colorado School of Mines attracts students passionate about engineering, applied science, and technology. With a significant 81% graduation rate, students here not only complete their degrees but often emerge into lucrative careers, as reflected in the impressive median earnings of $97,335 a decade after graduation. This combination of strong academic support and a focus on practical skills makes Mines a compelling choice for those ready to dive into the STEM fields.

61% accepted 81% graduate $97,335 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#30

Brigham Young University

Provo, UT · 32,952 students · Private nonprofit

68% accepted 82% graduate $75,790 earnings

Brigham's full profile

#31

Michigan Technological University

Houghton, MI · 5,955 students · Public

Michigan Technological University attracts students with a focus on engineering and technology, offering a supportive atmosphere for its approximately 5,955 students. With a graduation rate of 68%, it’s a fitting choice for those passionate about hands-on learning and technical skills, especially in a scenic campus setting surrounded by natural beauty.

92% accepted 68% graduate $78,198 earnings

Michigan's full profile

#32

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

Harvey Mudd College is a beacon for students passionate about science, engineering, and mathematics, with a remarkable graduation rate of 93%. The college's intimate setting, with only 921 students, allows for close interaction with faculty and peers, fostering a collaborative approach to learning that many students find enriching.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

#33

University of Detroit Mercy

Detroit, MI · 2,438 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 68% graduate $71,030 earnings

University's full profile

#34

Illinois Institute of Technology

Chicago, IL · 2,833 students · Private nonprofit

55% accepted 74% graduate $82,592 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#35

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University

Blacksburg, VA · 30,923 students · Public

Virginia Tech in Blacksburg is a vibrant hub for over 30,000 students, known for its strong engineering, business, and technology programs. The university boasts an 86% graduation rate, which speaks to the supportive environment and resources available to help students succeed. With median earnings at $81,698 ten years post-graduation, the school prepares students for solid career paths in various fields, ensuring their hard work pays off over time.

55% accepted 86% graduate $81,698 earnings

Virginia's full profile

#36

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Kings Point, NY · 962 students · Public

The United States Merchant Marine Academy offers a unique blend of rigorous academics and hands-on training, with an 81% graduation rate that reflects its commitment to preparing students for careers in maritime and transportation sectors. Located in Kings Point, NY, this school attracts those who are motivated by service and adventure, providing a distinct educational experience focused on leadership and operational excellence.

34% accepted 81% graduate $90,610 earnings

United's full profile

#37

The University of Texas at Austin

Austin, TX · 42,855 students · Public

27% accepted 88% graduate $75,121 earnings

Smith College

Northampton, MA · 2,544 students · Private nonprofit

21% accepted 89% graduate $64,027 earnings

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 90% and impressive median earnings of $92,538 a decade after graduation, Northeastern University is a strong contender for students seeking both academic rigor and career readiness. The university's focus on experiential learning, including co-op programs, helps students build connections and gain practical experience in their fields before they even graduate.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#40

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#41

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rolla, MO · 5,521 students · Public

73% accepted 64% graduate $82,957 earnings

Missouri's full profile

#42

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

#44

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Milwaukee, WI · 2,654 students · Private nonprofit

59% accepted 69% graduate $89,070 earnings

Milwaukee's full profile

#45

Tufts University

Medford, MA · 7,061 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 93% graduate $83,214 earnings

Stevens Institute of Technology

Hoboken, NJ · 4,222 students · Private nonprofit

48% accepted 88% graduate $108,772 earnings

Stevens's full profile

#47

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

#48

Binghamton University

Vestal, NY · 14,655 students · Public

39% accepted 83% graduate $80,596 earnings

Binghamton's full profile

#49

Boston University

Boston, MA · 18,248 students · Private nonprofit

11% accepted 89% graduate $83,238 earnings

Boston's full profile

#50

Virginia Military Institute

Lexington, VA · 1,527 students · Public

71% accepted 79% graduate $77,369 earnings

Virginia's full profile

Looking closely at the data, MIT outperforms Johns Hopkins in earnings by $55,817. This significant difference underscores the value of choosing a school with a proven track record in the electrical engineering field, especially when considering that both have competitive graduation rates.

After reviewing the 50 schools, think about your priorities. If financial considerations are paramount, Princeton's low net price and debt may appeal more than a potentially higher earning school like Stanford. Assess the overall fit for your goals, including campus culture and location.

Ultimately, this data speaks to the importance of education in securing a stable future. A careful choice today can lead to a life where financial stability is more attainable. With the right information, families can make informed decisions that set the stage for success.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

Chetty, R., Friedman, J., Saez, E., Turner, N., & Yagan, D. (2017). Mobility Report Cards: The Role of Colleges in Intergenerational Mobility. NBER Working Paper No. 23618. →

[2]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[3]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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