Rankings / Value

Most Affordable Colleges for Civil Engineering

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

Schools Analyzed

$69,302

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

66%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$10,508

Avg. Net Price

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Civil engineering programs can be a substantial financial commitment, but some schools make this path more accessible than others. When considering a degree in this field, affordability is often a key factor, and several institutions stand out for their low net prices and promising outcomes. This list showcases colleges where students can expect to graduate without overwhelming debt while still preparing for a rewarding career in civil engineering.

What sets the schools on this list apart are their strong graduation rates, earnings potential for graduates, and manageable debt levels. For instance, the average earnings for graduates from these programs is $69,062, significantly higher than the national average for all college graduates. Moreover, with an average graduation rate of 67%, these institutions demonstrate a commitment to helping students complete their degrees and enter the workforce successfully.

Take Princeton University and CUNY City College, for example. Princeton boasts an impressive $110,066 in average earnings for graduates and a graduation rate of 97%, while CUNY City College has lower earnings at $66,039 and a graduation rate of 56%. The contrast here illustrates the tradeoff between prestige and affordability, encouraging prospective students to weigh their options carefully as they explore this list.

Key Findings

Princeton University graduates earn an average of $110,066, the highest on this list.

CUNY City College has the lowest net price at $3,776, but graduates earn $66,039.

The average graduation rate for these 50 schools is 67%, indicating strong program support.

Graduates from the University of Florida see earnings of $71,588, with a 91% graduation rate.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 50

Avg. earnings at 10yr $69,302

Avg. graduation rate 66%

Avg. net price $10,508

Avg. median debt $17,991

How We Ranked

Ranked by affordability 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

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ

Graduation97%

Earnings$110,066

Net Price$6,128

View full profile →

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL

Graduation91%

Earnings$71,588

Net Price$6,541

View full profile →

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA

Graduation93%

Earnings$102,772

Net Price$12,116

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Princeton University

Princeton, NJ · 5,709 students · Private nonprofit

With a staggering 97% graduation rate, Princeton University is a beacon of academic excellence. The tight-knit community of just over 5,700 students fosters deep connections among peers and professors, enhancing the overall learning experience and promoting strong support networks.

5% accepted 97% graduate $110,066 earnings

Princeton's full profile

University of Florida

Gainesville, FL · 35,629 students · Public

In Gainesville, the University of Florida combines a vibrant campus life with academic rigor, drawing in over 35,600 students eager to engage in a wide array of programs. With a commendable 91% graduation rate, this public university fosters an environment where students can thrive academically and socially, preparing them for successful futures.

24% accepted 91% graduate $71,588 earnings

University's full profile

Georgia Institute of Technology-Main Campus

Atlanta, GA · 18,785 students · Public

With a graduation rate of 93%, Georgia Tech is known for its rigorous academic environment and a strong focus on technology and engineering. The median earnings of $102,772 at 10 years post-graduation highlight the value of a degree from this institution, suggesting that graduates are well-prepared for high-paying careers in a competitive job market.

14% accepted 93% graduate $102,772 earnings

Georgia's full profile

CUNY City College

New York, NY · 12,505 students · Public

CUNY City College serves as a vital access point to higher education for many students in New York, especially those from low-income backgrounds. With 60% of students receiving Pell Grants, it creates a diverse student body where various perspectives enrich the learning environment. Despite a graduation rate of 56%, the college is committed to helping students overcome barriers to completion.

60% accepted 56% graduate $66,039 earnings

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology

Socorro, NM · 995 students · Public

New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology, with a focused student body of around 995, offers specialized programs particularly in engineering and science. The 57% graduation rate suggests a strong commitment to student success, while the median earnings of $76,489 at 10 years indicate that graduates are finding rewarding careers in their fields.

44% accepted 57% graduate $76,489 earnings

United States Merchant Marine Academy

Kings Point, NY · 962 students · Public

The United States Merchant Marine Academy offers a unique blend of rigorous academic training and practical maritime experience. With an acceptance rate of 34%, it attracts dedicated students eager to carve out a niche in the maritime industry, while also providing a path to serve the nation.

34% accepted 81% graduate $90,610 earnings

United's full profile

Stanford University

Stanford, CA · 7,554 students · Private nonprofit

With a mere 4% acceptance rate, Stanford University attracts some of the brightest minds from around the world. The institution is not just about exclusivity; it also boasts a remarkable 92% graduation rate, reflecting its commitment to student success and academic excellence.

4% accepted 92% graduate $124,080 earnings

Stanford's full profile

Rice University

Houston, TX · 4,776 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, Rice University is an institution that clearly values student success. Located in Houston, Texas, it gives students access to a vibrant city known for its cultural diversity and job opportunities, particularly in energy, healthcare, and technology sectors. The median earnings at 10 years post-graduation reach an impressive $89,718, showcasing the strong return on investment for graduates.

8% accepted 95% graduate $89,718 earnings

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 is known for its unique commitment to providing a top-notch education in engineering and art without tuition. This prestigious institution, located in New York City, has a graduation rate of 81% and median earnings of $83,847 at 10 years, indicating strong career outcomes for its graduates. The vibrant city backdrop adds rich opportunities for internships and networking in various industries.

21% accepted 81% graduate $83,847 earnings

Florida International University

Miami, FL · 39,508 students · Public

With a vibrant student body of nearly 40,000, Florida International University embraces diversity and offers a dynamic campus life in Miami. The school's graduation rate of 74% reflects its commitment to student success, and the median earnings of $60,249 a decade after graduation suggest that graduates are well-prepared for the job market.

55% accepted 74% graduate $60,249 earnings

Florida's full profile

#11

Texas A & M International University

Laredo, TX · 6,667 students · Public

Texas A&M International University, located in Laredo, serves about 6,667 students and has a welcoming acceptance rate of 44%. However, the graduation rate of 48% suggests that students may face challenges in completing their degrees, making it essential for them to seek support early on. The median earnings of $48,386 at 10 years show potential for graduates, although they may not reach the levels seen at other institutions.

44% accepted 48% graduate $48,386 earnings

University of South Florida

Tampa, FL · 37,207 students · Public

Situated in lively Tampa, the University of South Florida serves more than 37,000 students and is known for its solid academic programs. With a graduation rate of 76%, students can expect a supportive environment that prepares them for the job market, where median earnings reach $57,743 a decade after graduation.

43% accepted 76% graduate $57,743 earnings

University's full profile

#13

University of Central Florida

Orlando, FL · 59,146 students · Public

With a vibrant campus in Orlando, the University of Central Florida has grown into a major educational hub, enrolling over 59,000 students. The graduation rate here is impressive at 77%, and the median earnings for graduates reach $58,308 after ten years, indicating strong outcomes for students entering the workforce.

40% accepted 77% graduate $58,308 earnings

University's full profile

#14

Oakland University

Rochester Hills, MI · 12,351 students · Public

With over 12,000 students, Oakland University in Rochester Hills, MI, is a vibrant community that welcomes a diverse array of learners. The university has a generous acceptance rate of 88%, making it an appealing option for students looking for a supportive environment to thrive academically and socially.

88% accepted 57% graduate $58,612 earnings

Oakland's full profile

#15

Florida Atlantic University

Boca Raton, FL · 23,757 students · Public

Located in the sunny coastal city of Boca Raton, Florida Atlantic University serves over 23,000 students who are eager to explore their academic interests. With a graduation rate of 63%, students can find a pathway to success here, and the median earnings of $56,746 after ten years speak to the value of a degree from this institution.

66% accepted 63% graduate $56,746 earnings

Florida's full profile

#16

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley

Edinburg, TX · 28,666 students · Public

The University of Texas Rio Grande Valley serves a diverse student body of nearly 29,000, making it a beacon of opportunity in the region. With an acceptance rate of 94%, it is welcoming and provides a chance for many to pursue higher education, though the graduation rate of 50% signals that persistence is key for success here.

94% accepted 50% graduate $49,620 earnings

Christian Brothers University

Memphis, TN · 905 students · Private nonprofit

With a 55% graduation rate and a cozy campus of just 905 students, Christian Brothers University in Memphis creates a close-knit community where students can thrive. The median earnings for graduates at ten years post-graduation is $57,478, indicating that many alumni find solid job opportunities after earning their degrees.

87% accepted 55% graduate $57,478 earnings

Christian's full profile

#18

Marshall University

Huntington, WV · 7,266 students · Public

Marshall University in Huntington, WV, offers a welcoming campus atmosphere with a high acceptance rate of 96%. Despite its smaller size, with around 7,200 students, the university provides a close-knit community that encourages student engagement and support.

96% accepted 50% graduate $46,354 earnings

Marshall's full profile

#19

Michigan Technological University

Houghton, MI · 5,955 students · Public

Located in Houghton, Michigan, this public university is home to nearly 6,000 students who are drawn to its strong focus on engineering and technology. With a graduation rate of 68%, Michigan Technological University prepares graduates for lucrative careers, as evidenced by a median income of $78,198 just a decade after they leave campus.

92% accepted 68% graduate $78,198 earnings

Michigan's full profile

#20

Lamar University

Beaumont, TX · 8,150 students · Public

86% accepted 37% graduate $49,652 earnings

University of West Florida

Pensacola, FL · 9,330 students · Public

The University of West Florida, located in sunny Pensacola, welcomes over 9,300 students, boasting a graduation rate of 60%. Graduates earn a median income of $49,137 after ten years, reflecting the university's role in preparing students for the workforce in various fields.

58% accepted 60% graduate $49,137 earnings

University's full profile

#22

University of North Florida

Jacksonville, FL · 13,359 students · Public

The University of North Florida, situated in Jacksonville, FL, is home to around 13,000 students and emphasizes a balance of academic rigor and personal growth. With a graduation rate of 69%, it provides opportunities for students to engage in research and internships while enjoying the benefits of a smaller campus atmosphere.

53% accepted 69% graduate $56,343 earnings

University's full profile

#23

California State University-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA · 19,562 students · Public

California State University-Los Angeles is a vibrant institution located in the heart of Los Angeles, serving a diverse student body of over 19,000. The school is known for its accessible education, with a high acceptance rate of 91%, making it a popular choice for many aspiring students seeking a degree in a bustling urban environment.

91% accepted 53% graduate $59,211 earnings

California's full profile

#24

The University of Texas at El Paso

El Paso, TX · 21,005 students · Public

The University of Texas at El Paso is an inclusive institution with a remarkable 100% acceptance rate. Serving over 21,000 students, it emphasizes access to higher education for all, particularly benefiting those from diverse backgrounds, as evidenced by its 62% Pell Grant recipient rate.

100% accepted 48% graduate $50,923 earnings

Portland State University

Portland, OR · 13,182 students · Public

With a vibrant urban campus located in Portland, Oregon, Portland State University attracts a diverse student body eager to immerse themselves in city life. The school is home to over 13,000 students and has a strong focus on community engagement and practical learning experiences, making it a great option for those looking to connect their education with real-world opportunities.

91% accepted 53% graduate $57,906 earnings

Portland's full profile

#26

College of Staten Island CUNY

Staten Island, NY · 9,657 students · Public

The College of Staten Island CUNY is a valuable option for students looking for an affordable education in New York City. With an acceptance rate of 92%, it serves over 9,600 students and emphasizes accessibility, even though its graduation rate is lower at 33%.

92% accepted 33% graduate $53,501 earnings

College's full profile

#27

Florida State University

Tallahassee, FL · 32,212 students · Public

Florida State University in Tallahassee is known for its spirited campus life and strong academic programs. With a graduation rate of 84%, students are likely to find the support they need to complete their degrees and enter the workforce prepared.

24% accepted 84% graduate $61,675 earnings

Florida's full profile

#28

North Carolina A & T State University

Greensboro, NC · 12,182 students · Public

50% accepted 56% graduate $44,440 earnings

Louisiana Tech University

Ruston, LA · 8,312 students · Public

86% accepted 61% graduate $52,279 earnings

Louisiana's full profile

#30

University of Michigan-Dearborn

Dearborn, MI · 5,952 students · Public

At the University of Michigan-Dearborn, students find a welcoming community with a focus on practical education and career readiness. Despite a graduation rate of 57%, the median earnings of $59,649 at 10 years show that graduates can still achieve solid financial outcomes. Situated in Dearborn, Michigan, the university is well-positioned to tap into the local economy, especially in the automotive and engineering sectors, which are thriving in the region.

56% accepted 57% graduate $59,649 earnings

University's full profile

#31

New Jersey Institute of Technology

Newark, NJ · 9,019 students · Public

65% accepted 73% graduate $84,276 earnings

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Cambridge, MA · 4,535 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology attracts students eager to dive into science and technology. With a remarkable graduation rate of 96% and a median income of $143,372 a decade after graduation, it’s clear that this institution is dedicated to excellence in education and career readiness.

5% accepted 96% graduate $143,372 earnings

Massachusetts's full profile

#33

Purdue University Northwest

Hammond, IN · 5,671 students · Public

Purdue University Northwest offers a welcoming environment for students seeking a practical and focused education in Indiana. With 5,671 students enrolled and a 72% acceptance rate, the university is dedicated to supporting its diverse population, though it faces challenges with a graduation rate of only 43%.

72% accepted 43% graduate $48,318 earnings

Purdue's full profile

#34

University of Detroit Mercy

Detroit, MI · 2,438 students · Private nonprofit

75% accepted 68% graduate $71,030 earnings

University's full profile

#35

The University of Texas at San Antonio

San Antonio, TX · 30,580 students · Public

87% accepted 52% graduate $57,131 earnings

California State University-Fullerton

Fullerton, CA · 38,546 students · Public

California State University-Fullerton is a vibrant hub of learning with a large student body of 38,546. The university has a graduation rate of 70%, and its graduates achieve median earnings of $62,951 at 10 years, reflecting the solid job preparation offered. Located in Fullerton, California, the school benefits from its proximity to the thriving Los Angeles job market, drawing students seeking diverse educational and professional experiences.

91% accepted 70% graduate $62,951 earnings

California's full profile

#37

California State University-Bakersfield

Bakersfield, CA · 8,577 students · Public

California State University-Bakersfield, with its welcoming atmosphere and 8,577 students, offers a unique opportunity for personal growth and academic achievement. Even though the graduation rate is at 50%, the median earnings of $59,009 after ten years indicate that many graduates find rewarding careers that can help them succeed financially.

94% accepted 50% graduate $59,009 earnings

California's full profile

#38

Vanderbilt University

Nashville, TN · 7,208 students · Private nonprofit

Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee, attracts attention for its strong graduation rate of 93% and a small student body of just 7,208. This private nonprofit institution is known for its rigorous academic programs and vibrant campus culture. Graduates can achieve impressive median earnings of $91,565 within ten years, showcasing the university's ability to prepare students for successful careers.

6% accepted 93% graduate $91,565 earnings

Vanderbilt's full profile

#39

University of New Orleans

New Orleans, LA · 4,638 students · Public

74% accepted 40% graduate $47,872 earnings

University's full profile

#40

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Rolla, MO · 5,521 students · Public

73% accepted 64% graduate $82,957 earnings

Missouri's full profile

#41

California Institute of Technology

Pasadena, CA · 987 students · Private nonprofit

3% accepted 94% graduate $128,566 earnings

California's full profile

#42

California State University-Northridge

Northridge, CA · 32,691 students · Public

In the heart of Los Angeles, California State University-Northridge serves over 32,000 students, fostering a rich and diverse academic community. Although the graduation rate is 57%, graduates still enjoy median earnings of $59,115 a decade after they leave, suggesting that students can find rewarding opportunities in their fields.

93% accepted 57% graduate $59,115 earnings

California's full profile

#43

San Jose State University

San Jose, CA · 27,601 students · Public

85% accepted 67% graduate $78,988 earnings

Johns Hopkins University

Baltimore, MD · 5,693 students · Private nonprofit

6% accepted 94% graduate $87,555 earnings

University of Georgia

Athens, GA · 32,137 students · Public

38% accepted 89% graduate $68,726 earnings

University's full profile

#46

West Virginia University Institute of Technology

Beckley, WV · 981 students · Public

With a tight-knit community of around 981 students, West Virginia University Institute of Technology is dedicated to offering hands-on learning experiences. Its location in Beckley, WV, provides a unique setting for students to engage with the local industry and explore the outdoors, making it a great fit for those who appreciate both academic and practical experiences.

37% accepted 34% graduate $55,939 earnings

University of Illinois Chicago

Chicago, IL · 22,170 students · Public

Located in a vibrant urban setting, the University of Illinois Chicago serves a diverse student population of over 22,000. With a graduation rate of 61%, it offers a dynamic environment where students can connect with peers and faculty while pursuing a variety of academic interests across disciplines.

77% accepted 61% graduate $68,740 earnings

University's full profile

#48

Saginaw Valley State University

University Center, MI · 5,989 students · Public

72% accepted 51% graduate $51,955 earnings

Saginaw's full profile

#49

University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus

Waterbury, CT · 733 students · Public

At the University of Connecticut-Waterbury Campus, located in Waterbury, Connecticut, students benefit from a smaller environment with just 733 peers and a graduation rate of 56%. Graduates find success with median earnings of $73,997 at ten years, highlighting the university's focus on providing valuable education.

87% accepted 56% graduate $73,997 earnings

University's full profile

#50

University of Tulsa

Tulsa, OK · 2,813 students · Private nonprofit

62% accepted 73% graduate $61,408 earnings

University's full profile

When looking closely at the data, it’s clear that schools like Georgia Institute of Technology and United States Merchant Marine Academy offer different benefits. Georgia Tech graduates earn an average of $102,772, but they face a higher average debt of $21,672. In contrast, the Merchant Marine Academy offers lower average earnings of $90,610 but has a significantly lower debt burden of $8,833. This highlights the importance of considering both potential earnings and debt when selecting a program.

As you sift through this list of 50 colleges, think critically about your own priorities. Consider how location, campus culture, and specific program strengths align with your personal and financial circumstances. The data can guide you, but your unique situation should ultimately inform your decision. It’s essential to weigh these factors carefully to find the right fit.

The journey from college to a stable career is often influenced by these choices. For one family, the decision to choose an affordable program with solid outcomes could mean the difference between entering a rewarding field without crippling debt or struggling financially for years after graduation. This data underscores the importance of making informed decisions that align with both career aspirations and financial realities.

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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