Rankings / Outcomes

Highest-Paying Colleges for Electrical Engineering

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

Schools Analyzed

$99,580

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

87%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$26,215

Avg. Net Price

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If you're considering an electrical engineering degree, the schools on this list stand out for their impressive graduate earnings. For instance, the average earnings for graduates from these 50 institutions reach $99,776, a figure that reflects the strong demand for skilled engineers in various industries.

What sets the top schools apart is not just their robust earnings potential but also factors like graduation rates, debt levels, and mobility outcomes. A degree from a high-paying school can be a significant step toward financial stability, but it's essential to also consider how much debt graduates carry. The list below highlights schools where graduates earn well while managing their financial obligations effectively.

Take Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Harvey Mudd College, for example. MIT graduates earn an average of $143,372 with a manageable debt of $14,768, while Harvey Mudd alumni earn $138,687 but carry a higher debt load of $25,000. This difference illustrates the trade-offs students might face, making it crucial to weigh earnings against financial commitments as you explore your options.

Key Findings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology graduates earn an average of $143,372.

Harvey Mudd College alumni face an average debt of $25,000.

Carnegie Mellon University offers a graduation rate of 93%.

The average graduation rate among the top 50 schools is 88%.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $99,580

Avg. graduation rate 87%

Avg. net price $26,215

Avg. median debt $19,462

How We Ranked

Ranked by graduate earnings 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 →

Stanford University

Stanford, CA

Graduation92%

Earnings$124,080

Net Price$13,807

View full profile →

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA

Graduation93%

Earnings$138,687

Net Price$35,924

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

With a 96% graduation rate and median earnings of $143,372 within a decade of graduation, MIT is a powerhouse for students passionate about science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The campus fosters an environment of innovation and collaboration, drawing in students who thrive on problem-solving and a rigorous academic challenge.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

Stanford is not just a university; it’s a vibrant ecosystem that encourages students to explore and innovate. With a 92% graduation rate and median earnings of $124,080 ten years after graduation, it attracts ambitious students who value a blend of academic rigor and entrepreneurial spirit. The campus culture prioritizes collaboration and creativity, making it appealing for those eager to make an impact.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Harvey Mudd College

Claremont, CA · 921 students · Private nonprofit

Harvey Mudd College is a small gem that prides itself on its rigorous curriculum in science and engineering, with a graduation rate of 93%. With a median income of $138,687 ten years post-graduation, it caters to students who are not just academically inclined but also eager to change the world through technology and research. The close-knit community of just 921 students fosters strong relationships and collaborative learning.

13% accepted 93% graduate $138,687 earnings

Harvey's full profile

Carnegie Mellon University

Pittsburgh, PA · 7,304 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Carnegie Mellon University is known for its strong emphasis on engineering, computer science, and the arts. Located in Pittsburgh, this private nonprofit school nurtures a collaborative environment where innovation thrives, supported by a diverse student body of 7,304.

12% accepted 93% graduate $114,862 earnings

Carnegie's full profile

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

Caltech, with just 987 students, is a haven for those passionate about science and technology. Known for its rigorous academic programs and a graduation rate of 94%, the institute fosters an environment of intellectual curiosity and groundbreaking research, all set in beautiful Pasadena.

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

Princeton University is known for its exceptional graduation rate of 97%, reflecting its commitment to student success and rigorous academic standards. Nestled in the charming town of Princeton, New Jersey, the university encourages close interactions between students and faculty, creating a supportive learning environment for its 5,709 students.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

University of Pennsylvania

Philadelphia, PA · 10,650 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Pennsylvania combines Ivy League prestige with a commitment to interdisciplinary learning, making it an appealing choice for ambitious students. With a graduation rate of 97% and a diverse student body of 10,650, Penn is located in the vibrant city of Philadelphia and encourages a blend of academic rigor and real-world application.

5% accepted 97% graduate $111,371 earnings

University's full profile

Stevens Institute of Technology

Hoboken, NJ · 4,222 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earnings of $108,772 ten years after graduation, Stevens Institute of Technology graduates see a strong financial return on their investment. Located in Hoboken, NJ, this private nonprofit school has a vibrant campus culture and a solid focus on engineering and technology disciplines, attracting students eager to excel in these fields. The 88% graduation rate indicates that most students are completing their degrees and stepping into successful careers.

48% accepted 88% graduate $108,772 earnings

Stevens's full profile

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

Georgia Institute of Technology is a powerhouse of innovation and engineering, located in the heart of Atlanta. With a 93% graduation rate, it’s clear that students here are driven and dedicated, with many going on to earn a median salary of $102,772 within a decade of graduation. This engaging environment fosters collaboration across disciplines, making it ideal for students who thrive in a fast-paced, technology-driven setting.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

#10

Santa Clara University

Santa Clara, CA · 6,552 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the bustling tech hub of Santa Clara, California, this university has a strong commitment to blending academic rigor with a supportive community. The 88% graduation rate showcases the institution’s dedication to helping students succeed, while graduates enjoy median earnings of $109,183 within a decade. This environment is particularly appealing to students interested in business, technology, and social justice fields, where they can thrive and make impactful changes.

48% accepted 88% graduate $109,183 earnings

Cornell University

Ithaca, NY · 15,995 students · Private nonprofit

Cornell University, nestled in Ithaca, NY, excels in delivering a comprehensive educational experience, with a remarkable 95% graduation rate. With diverse programs and a strong emphasis on research, students are equipped to enter various fields, earning a median salary of $104,043 after ten years. It’s a welcoming environment that encourages students from all backgrounds to pursue their passions and make meaningful contributions.

9% accepted 95% graduate $104,043 earnings

Cornell's full profile

#12

Lehigh University

Bethlehem, PA · 5,898 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 89%, Lehigh University showcases a strong commitment to student success. Nestled in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, this private nonprofit school supports nearly 6,000 students, helping them achieve impressive median earnings of $105,584 within a decade of graduation.

26% accepted 89% graduate $105,584 earnings

Lehigh's full profile

#13

Franklin W Olin College of Engineering

Needham, MA · 377 students · Private nonprofit

Franklin W. Olin College of Engineering is a unique institution that combines engineering with a strong emphasis on design and entrepreneurship. With a 94% graduation rate, the school nurtures creative thinkers who are ready to tackle real-world engineering challenges. The college's intimate size of just 377 students allows for personalized attention and a collaborative learning environment.

25% accepted 94% graduate $129,455 earnings

Franklin's full profile

#14

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Troy, NY · 5,714 students · Private nonprofit

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York, offers a robust education in science and engineering. With an 83% graduation rate, the school serves around 5,700 students, who can expect median earnings of $102,051 within ten years of graduation, indicating strong career prospects in technical fields.

63% accepted 83% graduate $102,051 earnings

Rensselaer's full profile

#15

Columbia University in the City of New York

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

Columbia University is set in the heart of New York City, providing an unparalleled backdrop for academic and personal growth. With a staggering 96% graduation rate, this prestigious institution fosters a community where nearly 9,000 students can thrive, leading to median earnings of $102,491 just ten years after graduation.

4% accepted 96% graduate $102,491 earnings

Columbia's full profile

#16

Harvard University

Cambridge, MA · 7,601 students · Private nonprofit

Harvard University, located in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is synonymous with academic excellence and opportunity. With a remarkable graduation rate of 97%, it cultivates a diverse and dynamic student body of about 7,600, leading to strong median earnings of $101,817 a decade after graduation.

4% accepted 97% graduate $101,817 earnings

Harvard's full profile

#17

Yale University

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

Yale University, situated in New Haven, Connecticut, is not just an Ivy League institution but a community where intellectual curiosity thrives. With a graduation rate of 96% and a median earnings figure of $100,533 a decade after graduation, students at Yale are prepared for successful careers while engaging in a rich cultural and academic life.

4% accepted 96% graduate $100,533 earnings

Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Worcester, MA · 5,447 students · Private nonprofit

Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is known for its hands-on learning approach, particularly in STEM fields. The school boasts a median earnings figure of $103,470 ten years post-graduation, making it an attractive option for those pursuing engineering and technology careers in a vibrant city like Worcester, MA.

60% accepted 89% graduate $103,470 earnings

Worcester's full profile

#19

Colorado School of Mines

Golden, CO · 6,155 students · Public

Located in Golden, CO, the Colorado School of Mines offers a unique focus on engineering and applied science in a stunning mountain setting. With a graduation rate of 81% and median earnings of $97,335 at ten years, students are well-positioned for lucrative careers in fields like energy and materials science.

61% accepted 81% graduate $97,335 earnings

Colorado's full profile

#20

University of Notre Dame

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

With a striking 96% graduation rate, the University of Notre Dame is a place where students are supported in their academic journeys. Nestled in Notre Dame, Indiana, this private nonprofit university blends a rich tradition with a commitment to excellence, allowing students to thrive both in and out of the classroom.

11% accepted 96% graduate $99,980 earnings

University's full profile

#21

Duke University

Durham, NC · 6,442 students · Private nonprofit

Duke University, located in Durham, North Carolina, is known for its vibrant campus life and academic rigor, with a graduation rate of 96%. With a total student body of 6,442, Duke fosters an intimate atmosphere where students can engage deeply with their studies and peers.

6% accepted 96% graduate $97,800 earnings

Dartmouth College

Hanover, NH · 4,541 students · Private nonprofit

Dartmouth College has a graduation rate of 96%, showing a strong commitment to student success. With median earnings of $97,434 ten years after graduation, students leave with a solid return on their investment, especially in the scenic setting of Hanover, NH.

5% accepted 96% graduate $97,434 earnings

Dartmouth's full profile

#23

Villanova University

Villanova, PA · 6,938 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 92%, Villanova University is known for its strong academic support and community engagement. Students here have access to a wealth of resources that guide them through their studies and into successful careers, as evidenced by a median earning of $100,423 ten years after graduation.

27% accepted 92% graduate $100,423 earnings

Villanova's full profile

#24

SUNY Maritime College

Throggs Neck, NY · 1,285 students · Public

SUNY Maritime College in Throggs Neck, NY, offers a unique blend of maritime and engineering education. With a graduation rate of 70% and median earnings of $95,951 after ten years, this college prepares students for diverse careers in industries ranging from shipping to engineering.

72% accepted 70% graduate $95,951 earnings

Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology

Terre Haute, IN · 2,309 students · Private nonprofit

With a focus on engineering and technology, Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, Indiana, is a smaller institution that prides itself on a hands-on learning experience, evidenced by its 80% graduation rate. The close-knit community encourages collaboration, making it ideal for students passionate about STEM fields.

77% accepted 80% graduate $101,253 earnings

Rose-Hulman's full profile

#26

Kettering University

Flint, MI · 1,205 students · Private nonprofit

Kettering University emphasizes hands-on learning in engineering and technology disciplines. Despite a graduation rate of 71%, students benefit from a strong focus on co-op programs that enhance employability, leading to median earnings of $94,823 a decade after graduation.

79% accepted 71% graduate $94,823 earnings

Kettering's full profile

#27

Brown University

Providence, RI · 7,226 students · Private nonprofit

Brown University is recognized for its commitment to academic freedom and a diverse student body. With a graduation rate of 96%, students here enjoy a supportive atmosphere that encourages exploration and innovation, which translates into median earnings of $93,487 ten years post-graduation.

5% accepted 96% graduate $93,487 earnings

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 93%, Vanderbilt University demonstrates a strong commitment to student success. Located in Nashville, TN, this private university is known for its vibrant campus life and academic rigor, making it an appealing choice for students who thrive in collaborative environments.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#29

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

Rice University stands out with a graduation rate of 95%, showcasing its dedication to helping students finish their degrees. Situated in Houston, TX, students enjoy a close-knit community and rigorous academics that foster both personal and professional growth, ideal for those who value collaboration and innovation.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

Lafayette College

Easton, PA · 2,757 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Easton, Pennsylvania, Lafayette College has a strong emphasis on undergraduate education, with a graduation rate of 88%. Students here enjoy a close-knit community and a liberal arts curriculum that prepares them for a broad range of careers. With median earnings of $91,410 ten years after graduation, Lafayette graduates find themselves well-positioned in the job market.

31% accepted 88% graduate $91,410 earnings

Lafayette's full profile

#31

Northeastern University

Boston, MA · 17,326 students · Private nonprofit

Home to a vibrant urban campus in Boston, MA, Northeastern University has a graduation rate of 90%, reflecting its focus on student achievement. The university is known for its emphasis on experiential learning, providing students with real-world opportunities that enhance their academic journey. This approach attracts driven individuals who are eager to merge education with practical experience.

5% accepted 90% graduate $92,538 earnings

Northeastern's full profile

#32

Bucknell University

Lewisburg, PA · 3,876 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 86%, Bucknell University in Lewisburg, PA, presents a strong commitment to student success. The median earnings of its graduates after ten years reach $93,807, suggesting that many students find lucrative career paths in a diverse range of fields after leaving the university.

29% accepted 86% graduate $93,807 earnings

Bucknell's full profile

#33

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore is synonymous with research and innovation, maintaining an impressive graduation rate of 94%. Known for its rigorous academic programs, the university attracts students who are passionate about making an impact in fields like public health, science, and engineering. Graduates enjoy median earnings of $87,555 ten years after finishing their degrees, reflecting the institution's strong reputation in the professional world.

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

Washington and Lee University

Lexington, VA · 1,881 students · Private nonprofit

In the picturesque setting of Lexington, VA, Washington and Lee University boasts a graduation rate of 94%. Known for its liberal arts education, the university attracts students who value critical thinking and leadership skills. The close community environment fosters meaningful relationships, making it an ideal place for those seeking a personalized educational experience.

14% accepted 94% graduate $94,810 earnings

Washington's full profile

#35

California State University Maritime Academy

Vallejo, CA · 804 students · Public

California State University Maritime Academy offers a unique blend of academic rigor and practical training, focusing on maritime studies in Vallejo, CA. With a graduation rate of 63% and median earnings of $94,784 a decade after graduation, it's clear that students often find rewarding careers in specialized fields like marine engineering or transportation.

95% accepted 63% graduate $94,784 earnings

California's full profile

#36

University of Southern California

Los Angeles, CA · 20,443 students · Private nonprofit

The University of Southern California, located in vibrant Los Angeles, has a remarkable graduation rate of 92%, reflecting a supportive environment for students. Graduates earn a median income of $92,498 ten years after completing their degrees, indicating that USC alumni are well-positioned in the job market, particularly in industries like entertainment, business, and technology.

10% accepted 92% graduate $92,498 earnings

University's full profile

#37

Northwestern University

Evanston, IL · 9,201 students · Private nonprofit

In Evanston, Illinois, Northwestern University offers a unique blend of research and liberal arts education, boasting a graduation rate of 96%. This private nonprofit institution attracts students who are curious and driven, preparing them for a variety of career paths. With median earnings of $89,363 ten years after graduation, Northwestern graduates are often well-compensated in their chosen fields.

8% accepted 96% graduate $89,363 earnings

Northwestern's full profile

#38

Milwaukee School of Engineering

Milwaukee, WI · 2,654 students · Private nonprofit

At Milwaukee School of Engineering, students benefit from a focused curriculum that emphasizes hands-on learning and practical experience. With a median earning of $89,070 ten years after graduation, graduates are well-prepared for the job market, particularly in engineering and technology fields.

59% accepted 69% graduate $89,070 earnings

Milwaukee's full profile

#39

Clarkson University

Potsdam, NY · 2,196 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Potsdam, Clarkson University emphasizes innovation and practical application in its education. The school has a 74% graduation rate and graduates earn a median of $89,696 ten years after leaving, showcasing strong outcomes for students in engineering and business disciplines.

77% accepted 74% graduate $89,696 earnings

Clarkson's full profile

#40

Maine Maritime Academy

Castine, ME · 942 students · Public

Maine Maritime Academy offers a unique blend of maritime and engineering education, preparing students for specialized careers in a growing field. With median earnings of $89,964 at ten years post-graduation, the academy equips students for success in industries like shipping, engineering, and logistics.

54% accepted 60% graduate $89,964 earnings

Case Western Reserve University

Cleveland, OH · 6,437 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 87%, Case Western Reserve University shows a strong commitment to student success. Located in Cleveland, Ohio, this private nonprofit institution supports 6,437 students, providing a vibrant community where individuals can thrive academically and socially. Students here often find a blend of rigorous academics and rich extracurricular opportunities that prepare them for competitive careers.

37% accepted 87% graduate $87,989 earnings

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is a public university in Newark that caters to a bustling student body of 9,019. With a graduation rate of 73%, NJIT fosters a practical, hands-on learning environment focused on technology and engineering. Here, students immerse themselves in innovative projects and collaborations that can lead to rewarding careers in high-demand fields.

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

Washington University in St Louis

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

Washington University in St. Louis is recognized for its rigorous academics and commitment to student success, reflected in an impressive 94% graduation rate. With a median earning of $86,182 after ten years, graduates are well-equipped for high-paying careers in various fields, including healthcare and business.

12% accepted 94% graduate $86,182 earnings

Washington's full profile

#44

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Kings Point, NY · 962 students · Public

At the United States Merchant Marine Academy, students receive a unique education that combines academic rigor with practical maritime training. With a graduation rate of 81%, this school prepares graduates for high-earning careers, achieving a median income of $90,610 a decade after completing their studies.

34% accepted 81% graduate $90,610 earnings

United's full profile

#45

George Washington University

Washington, DC · 11,182 students · Private nonprofit

47% accepted 85% graduate $90,873 earnings

George's full profile

#46

The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art

New York, NY · 842 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the heart of New York City, The Cooper Union for the Advancement of Science and Art has a unique commitment to full-tuition scholarships, making it an attractive choice for students passionate about engineering and the arts. With a focused community of 842 students, Cooper Union fosters a collaborative environment where creativity and innovation go hand in hand, reflected in its 81% graduation rate.

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, CA · 33,068 students · Public

The University of California-Berkeley is a hub of academic excellence located in the vibrant city of Berkeley, California. With a graduation rate of 93%, this public university is known for its commitment to research and social impact. Students here benefit from a diverse learning environment with a median earning potential of $92,446 ten years post-graduation, placing them among the leaders in their fields.

11% accepted 93% graduate $92,446 earnings

University's full profile

#48

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rolla, MO · 5,521 students · Public

73% accepted 64% graduate $82,957 earnings

Missouri's full profile

#49

Illinois Institute of Technology

Chicago, IL · 2,833 students · Private nonprofit

55% accepted 74% graduate $82,592 earnings

Illinois's full profile

#50

California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo

San Luis Obispo, CA · 21,996 students · Public

At California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, students thrive in a hands-on learning environment that emphasizes practical skills. With an 86% graduation rate and median earnings of $90,768 after ten years, Cal Poly graduates are often well-prepared for successful careers in engineering, agriculture, and business sectors.

31% accepted 86% graduate $90,768 earnings

California's full profile

When comparing schools, a notable pattern emerges: while Massachusetts Institute of Technology leads in earnings, its lower debt level at $14,768 compared to Harvey Mudd's $25,000 suggests that MIT may provide a better financial return on investment. This difference can significantly affect long-term financial stability.

As you weigh these schools against your priorities, consider what matters most to you: location, program fit, campus culture, or financial implications. For instance, if you value a strong local job market, a school in a tech hub might be more advantageous, even if its immediate earnings are slightly lower. Aligning these factors with your personal goals will help you make a more informed decision.

Ultimately, the data reflects a critical pathway: a degree in electrical engineering from a high-paying institution can lead to a stable, middle-class life. One family's choice of school can impact their financial future for years to come. Select wisely, as the right fit can pave the way for both professional success and personal fulfillment.

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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