Mechanical, Environmental Engineering Make Top 25 in US News Undergrad Rankings

Two undergraduate programs at Michigan Tech have been ranked among the top 25 in US News and World Report's Best Undergraduate Colleges guide.

Environmental engineering was listed 13th in the nation, with mechanical engineering ranking 22nd. Programs are ranked solely according to peer assessment.

"Recognition in the US News rankings demonstrates that the faculty staff and students of the mechanical and environmental engineering programs have earned the respect and notice of our peers," said Dean of Engineering Tim Schulz. "Their hard work and accomplishments are being recognized across the nation, bringing well-deserved attention to Michigan Tech."

"This is fantastic," said William Predebon, chair of mechanical engineering-engineering mechanics. "The credit goes to the faculty, staff and students."

"It's due to the quality instruction by our faculty, their concern for the students, and the excellent support by our staff," he said. "And we have top quality students; they are what make it fun to come to work."

In addition, the department has been working to raise its profile. "The reputation of the faculty and the department play a significant role in the US News rakings, and we've been doing a lot to get the word out."

Neil Hutzler, chair of civil and environmental engineering, said the ranking reflects longstanding excellence in the program.

"This is great news. The environmental engineering program has had a very good reputation for a number of years, but it's always nice to be recognized through the US News rankings," he said. "It speaks well of the quality of the program."

Hutzler also credited the faculty for raising awareness among their peers through their publications, presentations and other activities. "We have kept visible in national meetings and by holding office in professional organizations, and we send out a number of informational publications," he said. "This speaks to ongoing, concerted efforts among the staff and faculty, as well as to the excellence of our students and graduates."

Michigan Technological University is a public research university founded in 1885 in Houghton, Michigan, and is home to more than 7,000 students from 55 countries around the world. Consistently ranked among the best universities in the country for return on investment, Michigan’s flagship technological university offers more than 120 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in science and technology, engineering, computing, forestry, business and economics, health professions, humanities, mathematics, social sciences, and the arts. The rural campus is situated just miles from Lake Superior in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, offering year-round opportunities for outdoor adventure.