College research / Rankings

Best Engineering Colleges in the Midwest (2026)

Updated

Regional list from Best Engineering Colleges in the United States

This page ranks the 92 Engineering programs in the Midwest by median earnings of Engineering graduates four years after completing. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor ranks 1st on this list, reporting median earnings of $111,754 for its graduates four years after completing.

Across the 63 schools with a published figure, median earnings range from $111,754 to $71,715, with a median of $90,216.

Public institutions make up 63% of the list, with 58 schools alongside 34 private nonprofits. Purdue University Northwest posts the lowest average net price at $6,079, while University of Notre Dame reports the highest six-year completion rate at 95%.

University of Michigan-Ann Arbor ranks 16th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions.

The ranked list

92 schools in list order
RankSchoolMedian Engineering EarningsAverage net priceNet price, families under $30KAdmission rate
1University of Michigan-Ann Arbor · Ann Arbor, MI$111,754$13,138$1,04315.6%
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor reports $111,754 in median earnings of Engineering graduates four years after completing and ranks 16th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (275 graduates), Industrial Engineering (170 graduates), Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering (164 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($142,071), Industrial Engineering ($117,930), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($117,610)

2University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign · Champaign, IL$110,373$14,355$2,03842.4%
With a six-year completion rate of 85%, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign carries an average net price of $14,355.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Computer Engineering (318 graduates), Mechanical Engineering (265 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (177 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($159,855), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($111,783), Chemical Engineering ($104,317)

3Northwestern University · Evanston, ILNo published median$29,167$1,7647.7%
Northwestern University, a private nonprofit university in Evanston, admits 8% of applicants and has an average net price of $1,764 for families earning under $30,000.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (72 graduates), Industrial Engineering (55 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (43 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Industrial Engineering ($138,720), Chemical Engineering ($111,040), Biomedical/Medical Engineering ($102,994)

4University of Detroit Mercy · Detroit, MI$104,683$15,232$13,08875.4%
University of Detroit Mercy ranks 4th on this list, with median earnings of Engineering graduates four years after completing of $104,683 and a six-year completion rate of 67%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (19 graduates), Engineering, General (7 graduates), Civil Engineering (7 graduates)

5Washington University in St Louis · St. Louis, MO$102,373$21,786$1,71612.1%
Washington University in St Louis reports $102,373 in median earnings of Engineering graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $1,716 for families earning under $30,000.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (89 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (55 graduates), Chemical Engineering (30 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($95,965)

6Kettering University · Flint, MI$102,080$34,660$24,91078.7%
Kettering University admits 79% of applicants and its Engineering graduates earn a median of $102,080 four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (193 graduates), Computer Engineering (35 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (35 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($109,977), Mechanical Engineering ($99,292), Industrial Engineering ($86,265)

7Purdue University-Main Campus · West Lafayette, INNo published median$14,600$5,09849.9%
Purdue University-Main Campus ranks 87th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and graduates 83% of its students within six years.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (430 graduates), Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering (298 graduates), Computer Engineering (297 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($121,462), Industrial Engineering ($107,031), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($105,396)

8Ohio State University-Main Campus · Columbus, OH$101,542$17,339$4,88560.6%
Ohio State University-Main Campus reports $101,542 in median earnings of Engineering graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $17,339.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Computer Engineering (404 graduates), Mechanical Engineering (211 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (200 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($123,731), Industrial Engineering ($106,932), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($99,400)

9University of Notre Dame · Notre Dame, INNo published median$26,780$7,24411.3%
University of Notre Dame admits 11% of applicants and has an average net price of $7,244 for families earning under $30,000.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (102 graduates), Chemical Engineering (78 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (45 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Chemical Engineering ($113,614), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($112,828), Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering ($103,022)

10University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point · Stevens Point, WI$100,034$14,559$8,83391.8%
An average net price of $14,559 accompanies a six-year completion rate of 51% at University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Chemical Engineering (18 graduates), Paper Science and Engineering (15 graduates)

11Marietta College · Marietta, OH$99,295$21,083$18,25479.3%
Marietta College reports $99,295 in median earnings of Engineering graduates four years after completing and an average net price of $21,083.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Petroleum Engineering (35 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Petroleum Engineering ($99,295)

12University of Wisconsin-Madison · Madison, WI$98,862$17,354$4,20045.2%
University of Wisconsin-Madison admits 45% of applicants and its Engineering graduates earn a median of $98,862 four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (183 graduates), Industrial Engineering (118 graduates), Computer Engineering (115 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Industrial Engineering ($110,711), Chemical Engineering ($101,676), Biomedical/Medical Engineering ($99,762)

13University of Michigan-Dearborn · Dearborn, MINo published median$9,492$7,21155.6%
Ranked 13th on this list, University of Michigan-Dearborn reports an average net price of $7,211 for families earning under $30,000.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (134 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (121 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (38 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($111,740), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($105,446), Mechanical Engineering ($94,919)

14Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology · Terre Haute, IN$98,185$42,513$36,84376.9%
Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology posts median earnings of $98,185 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, alongside an average net price of $42,513.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (120 graduates), Computer Engineering (61 graduates), Chemical Engineering (43 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($109,164), Chemical Engineering ($98,341), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($96,448)

15Michigan State University · East Lansing, MI$97,272$19,680$7,06884.8%
Michigan State University reports an admission rate of 85% and median earnings of $97,272 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (277 graduates), Chemical Engineering (102 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (101 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($104,627), Engineering, General ($102,301), Chemical Engineering ($102,223)

16Loyola University Chicago · Chicago, IL$97,158$36,079$28,99281.6%
Loyola University Chicago reports an average net price of $28,992 for families earning under $30,000, and its Engineering graduates earn a median of $97,158 four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Computer Engineering (12 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (8 graduates)

17Oakland University · Rochester Hills, MINo published median$9,120$4,42287.8%
Oakland University carries an average net price of $4,422 for families earning under $30,000 and ranks 17th on this list.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (173 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (128 graduates), Computer Engineering (49 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($99,967), Mechanical Engineering ($97,444), Computer Engineering ($95,843)

18Wayne State University · Detroit, MI$96,274$12,766$11,09081.2%
Wayne State University reports median earnings of $96,274 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate stands at 58%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (69 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (65 graduates), Civil Engineering (33 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($100,944), Mechanical Engineering ($94,869), Chemical Engineering ($93,047)

19Case Western Reserve University · Cleveland, OH$95,909$41,190$19,02536.5%
Case Western Reserve University admits 37% of applicants and graduates 87% of its students within six years, while its Engineering graduates earn a median of $95,909 four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (108 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (86 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (51 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering ($106,134), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($99,557), Chemical Engineering ($96,533)

20Marquette University · Milwaukee, WINo published median$31,487$22,26981.3%
Marquette University ranks 20th on this list and reports a six-year completion rate of 83%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (81 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (80 graduates), Civil Engineering (30 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($106,686), Computer Engineering ($97,608), Biomedical/Medical Engineering ($95,728)

21Grand Valley State University · Allendale, MI$95,021$16,317$12,27283.0%
Grand Valley State University reports median earnings of $95,021 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, alongside an average net price of $12,272 for families earning under $30,000.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (71 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (31 graduates), Manufacturing Engineering (20 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($90,565)

22University of Missouri-Columbia · Columbia, MO$95,008$20,268$13,84178.5%
University of Missouri-Columbia admits 78% of applicants and reports median earnings of $95,008 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (127 graduates), Civil Engineering (65 graduates), Chemical Engineering (39 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($112,696), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($105,034), Industrial Engineering ($101,380)

23Lawrence Technological University · Southfield, MI$94,104$32,918$25,98055.9%
Lawrence Technological University reports an average net price of $25,980 for families earning under $30,000, and its Engineering graduates earn a median of $94,104 four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (60 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (45 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (22 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($100,145)

24Iowa State University · Ames, IA$93,378$18,589$10,58288.7%
Iowa State University posts median earnings of $93,378 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate stands at 75%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (406 graduates), Computer Engineering (295 graduates), Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering (158 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($105,753), Construction Engineering ($100,676), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($99,705)

25University of Minnesota-Twin Cities · Minneapolis, MN$93,000$16,778$6,64279.8%
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities reports median earnings of $93,000 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate reaches 85%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (202 graduates), Chemical Engineering (86 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (81 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($119,781), Biomedical/Medical Engineering ($97,611), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($97,575)

26Bradley University · Peoria, IL$92,787$22,719$17,26976.8%
Bradley University, a private nonprofit university in Peoria, admits 77% of applicants and carries an average net price of $22,719.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (56 graduates), Civil Engineering (26 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (25 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($100,391), Mechanical Engineering ($95,896), Industrial Engineering ($89,362)

27Saint Cloud State University · Saint Cloud, MNNo published median$13,529$8,90994.8%
Saint Cloud State University ranks 27th on this list, with a six-year completion rate of 40% and an average net price of $8,909 for families earning under $30,000.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (34 graduates), Computer Engineering (30 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (16 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($90,009), Mechanical Engineering ($87,503)

28Illinois Institute of Technology · Chicago, ILNo published median$18,425$12,96454.9%
Illinois Institute of Technology holds an Azimuth composite rank of 206th among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its admission rate stands at 55%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (73 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (34 graduates), Civil Engineering (31 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($114,930), Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering ($110,956), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($98,743)

29University of North Dakota · Grand Forks, ND$92,471$18,551$13,12676.9%
University of North Dakota posts median earnings of $92,471 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 60%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (77 graduates), Civil Engineering (49 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (39 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($106,162), Petroleum Engineering ($99,932), Mechanical Engineering ($89,704)

30University of Cincinnati-Main Campus · Cincinnati, OH$92,186$25,648$17,97485.3%
An average net price of $17,974 for families earning under $30,000 and an admission rate of 85% are reported by University of Cincinnati-Main Campus.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (211 graduates), Chemical Engineering (124 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (98 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($98,364), Chemical Engineering ($97,220), Biomedical/Medical Engineering ($90,897)

31University of St Thomas · Saint Paul, MN$92,179$29,155$28,13185.4%
University of St Thomas ranks 31st on this list, with median earnings of $92,179 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (80 graduates), Civil Engineering (29 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (22 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($93,981), Mechanical Engineering ($91,683)

32Winona State University · Winona, MN$91,528$17,503$10,22475.5%
Winona State University graduates 57% of its students within six years and reports an average net price of $17,503.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Materials Engineering (19 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Materials Engineering ($91,528)

33University of Dayton · Dayton, OH$91,479$29,533$21,73665.5%
University of Dayton, a private nonprofit university in Dayton, posts median earnings of $91,479 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (214 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (60 graduates), Civil Engineering (48 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Chemical Engineering ($97,184), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($95,595), Mechanical Engineering ($88,339)

34Milwaukee School of Engineering · Milwaukee, WI$91,459$22,453$11,60758.9%
Milwaukee School of Engineering carries an Azimuth composite rank of 391st among nonprofit four-year institutions and an admission rate of 59%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (134 graduates), Computer Engineering (73 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (73 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($103,360), Biomedical/Medical Engineering ($93,229), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($93,201)

35Missouri University of Science and Technology · Rolla, MONo published median$16,298$10,91272.6%
Missouri University of Science and Technology ranks 35th on this list, with an average net price of $10,912 for families earning under $30,000 and a six-year completion rate of 64%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (240 graduates), Civil Engineering (128 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (95 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Petroleum Engineering ($102,405), Computer Engineering ($99,620), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($98,264)

36Purdue University Northwest · Hammond, IN$91,195$6,079$1,43272.4%
Purdue University Northwest reports median earnings of $91,195 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, and its average net price is $6,079.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (48 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (25 graduates), Civil Engineering (19 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($96,206), Mechanical Engineering ($91,229)

37University of Toledo · Toledo, OH$90,895$17,249$13,52492.0%
University of Toledo reports median earnings of $90,895 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, and an average net price of $17,249.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (164 graduates), Computer Engineering (115 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (65 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($95,846), Chemical Engineering ($94,065), Computer Engineering ($93,816)

38University of Nebraska-Lincoln · Lincoln, NE$90,780$17,747$12,75187.5%
With a six-year completion rate of 67%, University of Nebraska-Lincoln ranks 38th on this list and posts an admission rate of 87%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (130 graduates), Civil Engineering (90 graduates), Computer Engineering (83 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($103,934), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($100,972), Mechanical Engineering ($88,972)

39Indiana University-Indianapolis · Indianapolis, IN$90,660$11,668$5,70176.4%
Indiana University-Indianapolis carries an average net price of $5,701 for families earning under $30,000, alongside median earnings of $90,660 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (147 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (36 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (30 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($97,841), Computer Engineering ($95,884), Engineering, Other ($89,261)

40Western Michigan University · Kalamazoo, MI$90,637$15,273$5,26384.6%
Western Michigan University ranks 353rd on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its Engineering graduates earn a median of $90,637 four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (82 graduates), Chemical Engineering (47 graduates), Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering (41 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($95,469), Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering ($94,177), Industrial Engineering ($92,306)

41Lake Superior State University · Sault Ste Marie, MI$90,216$12,822$3,516Not reported
Lake Superior State University graduates 51% of its students within six years, and its Engineering completers report median earnings of $90,216 four years after graduating.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (21 graduates), Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering (8 graduates)

42Michigan Technological University · Houghton, MI$89,881$14,182$2,04592.4%
An average net price of $2,045 for families earning under $30,000 coincides with a 92% admission rate at Michigan Technological University, which ranks 42nd on this list.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (266 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (102 graduates), Chemical Engineering (88 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($99,848), Chemical Engineering ($94,478), Computer Engineering ($93,557)

43University of Michigan-Flint · Flint, MI$89,554$7,007$1,51770.5%
University of Michigan-Flint reports median earnings of $89,554 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, and an average net price of $7,007.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (40 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($89,554)

44Miami University-Oxford · Oxford, OHNo published median$28,384$16,01575.4%
Miami University-Oxford ranks 44th on this list, admits 75% of applicants, and shows a six-year completion rate of 80%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (88 graduates), Computer Engineering (55 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (31 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($96,840), Chemical Engineering ($96,025), Mechanical Engineering ($87,343)

45University of Illinois Chicago · Chicago, IL$89,169$10,974$7,52977.4%
University of Illinois Chicago ranks 17th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, and its Engineering graduates earn a median of $89,169 four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (168 graduates), Civil Engineering (108 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (97 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($102,691), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($92,002), Chemical Engineering ($87,407)

46Ohio University-Main Campus · Athens, OH$88,990$21,637$15,67385.0%
With an admission rate of 85%, Ohio University-Main Campus reports median earnings of $88,990 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Engineering, General (65 graduates), Mechanical Engineering (52 graduates), Chemical Engineering (41 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Industrial Engineering ($99,364), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($94,673), Mechanical Engineering ($91,285)

47Kansas State University · Manhattan, KSNo published median$19,406$13,17881.7%
Kansas State University ranks 47th on this list, graduates 71% of its students within six years, and carries an average net price of $19,406.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (182 graduates), Industrial Engineering (50 graduates), Civil Engineering (45 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($95,640), Chemical Engineering ($92,068), Architectural Engineering ($91,336)

48University of Akron Main Campus · Akron, OH$88,508$13,946$10,41359.7%
University of Akron Main Campus reports an average net price of $10,413 for families earning under $30,000, and its Engineering graduates earn a median of $88,508 four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (170 graduates), Chemical Engineering (60 graduates), Civil Engineering (52 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($97,875), Computer Engineering ($96,791), Chemical Engineering ($90,279)

49University of Iowa · Iowa City, IANo published median$22,531$15,31683.6%
An average net price of $22,531 accompanies University of Iowa, which ranks 184th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Biomedical/Medical Engineering (92 graduates), Mechanical Engineering (89 graduates), Computer Engineering (68 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Chemical Engineering ($97,329), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($97,208), Industrial Engineering ($95,347)

50University of Missouri-Kansas City · Kansas City, MO$88,028$13,310$10,57672.2%
University of Missouri-Kansas City reports median earnings of $88,028 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing and ranks 50th on this list.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Electrical and Computer Engineering (60 graduates), Mechanical Engineering (36 graduates), Civil Engineering (31 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($90,588), Civil Engineering ($85,055)

51Valparaiso University · Valparaiso, IN$87,750$18,578$11,04389.4%
A private nonprofit university in Valparaiso, Valparaiso University graduates 70% of its students within six years and reports median earnings of $87,750 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (42 graduates), Civil Engineering (27 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (12 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($90,583), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($87,944), Civil Engineering ($80,173)

52Bowling Green State University-Main Campus · Bowling Green, OH$87,722$24,022$18,39681.0%
Reporting median earnings of $87,722 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, Bowling Green State University-Main Campus admits 81% of applicants.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Construction Engineering (54 graduates), Computer Engineering (49 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($93,626), Construction Engineering ($82,365)

53University of Wisconsin-Stout · Menomonie, WI$87,680$17,490$10,96687.7%
An average net price of $17,490 accompanies University of Wisconsin-Stout, which admits 88% of applicants and reports median earnings of $87,680 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (77 graduates), Electrical and Computer Engineering (27 graduates), Polymer/Plastics Engineering (14 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Manufacturing Engineering ($87,431)

54University of Kansas · Lawrence, KSNo published median$18,059$12,54493.5%
A public institution in Lawrence, University of Kansas graduates 69% of its students within six years and carries an average net price of $18,059.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (95 graduates), Chemical Engineering (62 graduates), Civil Engineering (60 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Petroleum Engineering ($97,527), Chemical Engineering ($93,391), Civil Engineering ($89,087)

55South Dakota State University · Brookings, SD$87,644$19,841$14,26698.3%
Reporting median earnings of $87,644 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, South Dakota State University ranks 655th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (95 graduates), Civil Engineering (40 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (19 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($87,704), Civil Engineering ($82,486)

56Central Michigan University · Mount Pleasant, MI$87,546$17,597$12,18589.8%
An average net price of $17,597 accompanies Central Michigan University, which admits 90% of applicants and graduates 59% of its students within six years.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (34 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (20 graduates), Computer Engineering (6 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($91,542), Mechanical Engineering ($85,196)

57University of Wisconsin-Platteville · Platteville, WI$87,041$16,032$9,00989.4%
With median earnings of $87,041 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, University of Wisconsin-Platteville carries an average net price of $16,032.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (197 graduates), Civil Engineering (83 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (61 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($95,300), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($92,443), Industrial Engineering ($88,918)

58University of Missouri-St Louis · Saint Louis, MO$86,725$15,071$13,03162.7%
A public university in Saint Louis, University of Missouri-St Louis reports median earnings of $86,725 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing and admits 63% of applicants.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (39 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (22 graduates), Civil Engineering (19 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($96,083), Mechanical Engineering ($84,087)

59University of Minnesota-Duluth · Duluth, MN$86,676$18,743$7,25688.8%
An average net price of $7,256 for families earning under $30,000 coincides with University of Minnesota-Duluth, which admits 89% of applicants.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (106 graduates), Chemical Engineering (57 graduates), Civil Engineering (55 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($88,965), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($88,305), Chemical Engineering ($85,667)

60Northern Illinois University · Dekalb, ILNo published median$13,391$10,12669.8%
Ranked 116th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, Northern Illinois University graduates 49% of its students within six years.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (115 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (35 graduates), Industrial Engineering (21 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($93,962), Mechanical Engineering ($86,999), Industrial Engineering ($82,584)

61Southern Illinois University Edwardsville · Edwardsville, IL$86,459$14,889$8,48397.5%
Southern Illinois University Edwardsville reports median earnings of $86,459 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, alongside a six-year completion rate of 57%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (80 graduates), Civil Engineering (54 graduates), Industrial Engineering (49 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($99,325), Civil Engineering ($85,969), Mechanical Engineering ($81,428)

62North Dakota State University-Main Campus · Fargo, NDNo published median$15,543$9,37095.0%
A public university in Fargo, North Dakota State University-Main Campus admits 95% of applicants and carries an average net price of $15,543.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (154 graduates), Civil Engineering (73 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (56 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($94,510), Mechanical Engineering ($87,702), Industrial Engineering ($84,016)

63Augustana College · Rock Island, IL$85,993$22,736$15,78762.7%
Augustana College ranks 63rd on this list and posts a six-year completion rate of 73%, with an admission rate of 63%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Engineering Physics (12 graduates)

64Saginaw Valley State University · University Center, MI$85,889$10,775$9,84472.1%
With an average net price of $10,775, Saginaw Valley State University reports median earnings of $85,889 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (41 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (18 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($83,873)

65Wright State University-Main Campus · Dayton, OH$85,888$15,415$11,95296.3%
Wright State University-Main Campus ranks 377th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports a six-year completion rate of 42%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (96 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (40 graduates), Computer Engineering (29 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($97,659), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($89,391), Mechanical Engineering ($82,795)

66South Dakota School of Mines and Technology · Rapid City, SDNo published median$20,183$15,34879.9%
South Dakota School of Mines and Technology admits 80% of applicants and shows an average net price of $15,348 for families earning under $30,000.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (95 graduates), Civil Engineering (48 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (33 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Industrial Engineering ($92,815), Chemical Engineering ($90,845), Mechanical Engineering ($85,350)

67Southern Illinois University-Carbondale · Carbondale, IL$84,693$13,297$9,41586.9%
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale reports median earnings of $84,693 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, and its admission rate stands at 87%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (57 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (43 graduates), Civil Engineering (21 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($86,238), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($83,853), Civil Engineering ($81,888)

68Youngstown State University · Youngstown, OH$84,396$12,767$9,32884.5%
Ranking 68th on this list, Youngstown State University shows a six-year completion rate of 50% and an average net price of $12,767.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (62 graduates), Chemical Engineering (38 graduates), Civil Engineering (29 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($90,539), Chemical Engineering ($89,150), Civil Engineering ($80,437)

69Cedarville University · Cedarville, OHNo published median$24,468$18,98765.3%
A private nonprofit university in Cedarville, Cedarville University graduates 73% of its students within six years and admits 65% of applicants.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (53 graduates), Civil Engineering (18 graduates), Computer Engineering (12 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($86,062)

70Saint Louis University · Saint Louis, MONo published median$24,398$22,50175.0%
Saint Louis University ranks 498th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and carries an average net price of $22,501 for families earning under $30,000.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Biomedical/Medical Engineering (48 graduates), Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering (33 graduates), Mechanical Engineering (27 graduates)

71Cleveland State University · Cleveland, OH$83,009$14,764$11,95891.3%
Cleveland State University reports median earnings of $83,009 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, with an admission rate of 91%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (86 graduates), Civil Engineering (43 graduates), Chemical Engineering (35 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Computer Engineering ($88,595), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($87,713), Mechanical Engineering ($85,184)

72Trine University · Angola, INNo published median$25,355$19,66185.5%
Trine University admits 85% of applicants and posts a six-year completion rate of 64%, alongside an average net price of $25,355.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (49 graduates), Civil Engineering (29 graduates), Chemical Engineering (27 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($92,945), Chemical Engineering ($88,192), Mechanical Engineering ($86,997)

73Olivet Nazarene University · Bourbonnais, IL$82,632$20,729$17,23255.9%
Olivet Nazarene University reports median earnings of $82,632 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, and an average net price of $20,729.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Engineering, General (51 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Engineering, General ($82,632)

74Hope College · Holland, MI$82,513$27,182$17,60679.2%
Hope College admits 79% of applicants and graduates 80% of its students within six years.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Engineering, General (52 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Engineering, General ($82,513)

75Calvin University · Grand Rapids, MI$82,326$22,992$19,28170.9%
Calvin University ranks 1140th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, alongside median earnings of $82,326 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Engineering, General (75 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Engineering, General ($82,326)

76University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee · Milwaukee, WINo published median$15,014$10,32990.7%
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has an average net price of $15,014 and an admission rate of 91%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (115 graduates), Civil Engineering (63 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (43 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering ($91,955), Mechanical Engineering ($86,405), Industrial Engineering ($82,763)

77Ferris State University · Big Rapids, MI$82,141$8,624$2,55691.4%
Ferris State University reports an average net price of $2,556 for families earning under $30,000, and median earnings of $82,141 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Manufacturing Engineering (32 graduates), Surveying Engineering (13 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Manufacturing Engineering ($80,996)

78Ohio Northern University · Ada, OHNo published median$24,478$18,52574.4%
Ohio Northern University graduates 75% of its students within six years and ranks 881st on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (67 graduates), Civil Engineering (19 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (17 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($85,802), Civil Engineering ($79,673)

79University of Evansville · Evansville, INNo published median$18,499$14,45177.6%
University of Evansville admits 78% of applicants and has an average net price of $18,499.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (19 graduates), Civil Engineering (13 graduates), Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (8 graduates)

80Minnesota State University-Mankato · Mankato, MN$81,502$19,139$12,33988.4%
Minnesota State University-Mankato reports median earnings of $81,502 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, and an average net price of $12,339 for families earning under $30,000.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Civil Engineering (48 graduates), Engineering, General (37 graduates), Mechanical Engineering (36 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($85,286), Engineering, General ($82,903), Civil Engineering ($74,989)

81University of Mount Union · Alliance, OH$80,963$23,280$16,78678.2%
University of Mount Union ranks 1155th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions, and graduates 59% of its students within six years.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Civil Engineering (14 graduates), Mechanical Engineering (14 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($80,963)

82Wichita State University · Wichita, KSNo published median$13,194$9,73494.0%
Wichita State University has an admission rate of 94% and an average net price of $9,734 for families earning under $30,000.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (76 graduates), Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering (67 graduates), Biomedical/Medical Engineering (35 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Mechanical Engineering ($89,074), Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering ($83,057), Computer Engineering ($76,203)

83Wartburg College · Waverly, IA$78,959$32,908$21,68875.8%
Wartburg College reports median earnings of $78,959 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, alongside an average net price of $32,908.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Engineering Science (11 graduates)

84Dordt University · Sioux Center, IA$78,118$25,807$22,59768.5%
Dordt University admits 68% of applicants and reports median earnings of $78,118 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (19 graduates)

85Kent State University at Kent · Kent, OH$72,958$20,787$15,28086.3%
Kent State University at Kent reports median earnings of $72,958 for its Engineering graduates four years after completing, and its six-year completion rate is 64%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical/Space Engineering (15 graduates), Industrial Engineering (12 graduates), Mechatronics, Robotics, and Automation Engineering (6 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Industrial Engineering ($72,958)

86University of Wisconsin-River Falls · River Falls, WI$71,715$14,054$8,47281.7%
With an average net price of $14,054, University of Wisconsin-River Falls admits 82% of applicants and ranks 86th on this list.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Agricultural Engineering (5 graduates)

Highest four-year median earnings by program: Agricultural Engineering ($71,715)

87Benedictine College · Atchison, KSNo published median$27,891$22,03298.1%
Benedictine College, a private nonprofit institution in Atchison, has a six-year completion rate of 62% and an admission rate of 98%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (18 graduates)

88Purdue University Fort Wayne · Fort Wayne, INNo published median$13,171$8,30683.9%
Purdue University Fort Wayne ranks 665th on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions and reports an average net price of $13,171.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Electrical, Electronics, and Communications Engineering (22 graduates), Mechanical Engineering (15 graduates), Computer Engineering (10 graduates)

89Saint Ambrose University · Davenport, IANo published median$24,691$22,03777.3%
Saint Ambrose University admits 77% of applicants and carries an average net price of $22,037 for families earning under $30,000.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (19 graduates), Industrial Engineering (8 graduates)

90University of Northwestern-St Paul · Saint Paul, MNNo published median$27,705$26,69693.5%
University of Northwestern-St Paul graduates 68% of its students within six years and ranks 1293rd on Azimuth's composite ranking among nonprofit four-year institutions.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Engineering, General (26 graduates)

91Baker College · Owosso, MINo published median$13,157$11,97681.9%
Baker College reports an average net price of $13,157 and a six-year completion rate of 36%.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (11 graduates)

92Otterbein University · Westerville, OHNo published median$19,237$12,45884.5%
Otterbein University admits 85% of applicants and has an average net price of $12,458 for families earning under $30,000.

Largest programs by graduates in the earnings cohort: Mechanical Engineering (13 graduates), Systems Engineering (7 graduates)

How this list is ordered

Schools are ordered by the median earnings of their Engineering graduates four years after completing, highest first. Only schools with a reported Engineering earnings cohort in the Midwest appear. The figure is the median for federally aided completers who were working and not enrolled, measured four years after completing. It does not adjust for graduate school enrollment, cost, or who enrolls, and it is not a measure of teaching quality. The range and median below cover the 63 schools with a published figure. The gap between University of Michigan-Ann Arbor and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is $1,381, while the spread from the top of the list to the bottom reaches $40,039.

Job market context in the Midwest

Engineering graduates in the Midwest enter a labor market that includes occupations such as Industrial Engineers, Mechanical Engineers, and Civil Engineers. The median annual wage across those occupations is $105,833, and a quarter of workers in those occupations earn less than $84,669. Projections for 2024 to 2034 show about 59,670 openings a year, or about 201 openings a year for every hundred graduates, with more projected openings than graduates. Projections for 2024 to 2034 put employment in those occupations about 7.1% higher. Wages and top occupations exclude management occupations; openings include them. The ranking above uses the median earnings of graduates four years after completing, which is a different measure from the occupational wage figures shown here.