How to pursue a degree in electrical engineering in the USA?

I'm planning to study electrical engineering in college and am curious about programs in the USA. What are some of the best universities for this major, and what kind of high school preparation do I need?

First off, kudos to you for already having a clear vision of what you want to major in!

When it comes to top universities for electrical engineering in the USA, a few that consistently rank at the top include Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Stanford University, University of California, Berkeley, and California Institute of Technology (Caltech). Coming from premier institutions, these programs carry a lot of recognition and weight in the job market. Other notable programs to consider are offered by the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Purdue University, University of Michigan–Ann Arbor, and Cornell University.

As for high school preparations, building a strong foundation in math and sciences, particularly physics, is crucial, even before entering college. Successfully completing AP Calculus BC and AP Physics can be potential indicators of future success in the field. In fact, many top engineering programs like seeing this advanced coursework on your application. Additionally, schools often prefer students who have demonstrated experience with hands-on projects or extracurricular activities that are related to engineering, such as a robotics club or science research. These not only broaden your understanding of the field but also show your deep-rooted interest in it.

Not to be overlooked, sharpening your problem-solving skills and curiosity about real-world problems and how to solve them is critical—engineering after all, is about solving practical problems within the constraints of budget, safety, and efficiency. Demonstrating these skills in your application, through your essays or the activities you've taken part in, can help in showcasing your suitability for an engineering program.

Another important factor is your standardized test scores. Most universities will require you to take the SAT or ACT, and a high score in the Math section is favorable for engineering applications. Note that Dartmouth College, Harvard, Purdue, Brown, Yale, UT Austin, and Caltech require SAT or ACT scores for the 2024-2025 application cycle.

In the end, it's not just about getting into a high-ranking university, but about finding an electrical engineering program that suits your academic and career goals. Whether it's through internships, research, or specific courses, find out what opportunities each program provides to deepen your understanding and experience in the field. Good luck!