Everything You Need to Know about Majoring in Engineering
Engineering is one of the most versatile and impactful majors, but also one of the most rigorous. It attracts students with an interest in applying math and science, solving practical problems, and creating innovative solutions. From building bridges to designing interfaces to developing medical devices, engineers play a crucial role in shaping our world. Engineers figure out how things work so they can design, build, fix, and keep running the systems we rely on every day.
Engineering is typically a very competitive major, both in terms of admissions and academic rigor. Admissions officers like to see students who challenge themselves (particularly in STEM classes). Whether this be through AP courses like AP Physics, AP Chemistry, and AP Calculus, or through Higher Level Physics, Chemistry, and Math with an IB diploma, it’s important to showcase a willingness to take on challenging coursework.
However, engineering isn’t just about excelling in math and science: While a solid STEM foundation is important to the major, engineering also requires skills in creative problem-solving, analytical reasoning, collaboration, and communication, as well as a strong work ethic.
Career Opportunities for Engineering Majors
Engineering is a very diverse field, and with an engineering major you can pursue a wide range of career paths. Engineering graduates often enter fields like aerospace, mechanical, biomedical, civil, or computer engineering, among others. Certain specialties, such as chemical engineering or biomedical engineering, may require advanced degrees or certifications. Engineering majors can also pursue management and consulting positions such as project manager, management consultant, and architectural and engineering manager.
Schools to Consider
Lots of schools offer robust engineering programs, and some are more competitive than others. Here are just a few schools with strong engineering programs:
Georgia Institute of Technology
University of California, Berkeley
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
University of Michigan
Virginia Tech
Purdue University
The University of Texas–Austin
Pennsylvania State University
Other Things to Keep in Mind
At some universities, like UC Berkeley or UIUC, students must apply directly to the College of Engineering, making admission more selective than for other majors. In other cases, at schools like Georgia Tech, students can enter undeclared and apply to the engineering school later, which can also be competitive. Understanding each school’s specific process is key.
Some schools have specialized opportunities for engineering majors. At the University of Colorado, for example, all engineering students are required to live in the same dorms during their freshman year, cultivating a sense of community and collaboration.
How College Solutions Can Help
Engineering admissions can feel intimidating, but College Solutions has the expertise to guide you through the process. With tailored guidance, College Solutions can help you highlight the necessary skills to succeed as an engineering major. We can help you showcase the personal strengths and academic qualities that admissions committees look for: advanced STEM preparation, curiosity, work ethic, and creative problem solving.
Additionally, because engineering is such a vast field, College Solutions can help you find which school will best support your specific interests. We can help you find programs best aligned with your particular aspirations, whether that’s aerospace, biomedical, computer science, or something else entirely.
For the class of 2025, 65% of College Solutions students got into engineering programs, with typical acceptance rates for strong programs being less than 30%. Using College Solutions for essay support, specialized counseling, and extracurricular guidance, you can maximize your chances of admission to engineering programs.
Final Thoughts
Engineering is a challenging but rewarding major for students eager to use their problem-solving skills to make an impact on the world. From navigating STEM courses to finding the best program for you, having the right support makes all the difference. With College Solutions on your side, you can find the best school for you, strengthen your application, and most importantly, feel more equipped to take on the rigorous major.