If you’re considering a career in engineering or technology, picking the right program is a critical first step. ABET accreditation can give you confidence in your choice. It’s a seal of approval that tells you the program meets the educational standards needed to prepare for a career in the field. In this article, we’ll explain ABET accreditation, why it matters, and how to identify the best programs to match your goals.
What Are ABET-Accredited Schools?
ABET-accredited schools are institutions that offer programs meeting the high standards of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Importantly, ABET accredits specific programs — not entire schools. These programs ensure quality education and hands-on training, preparing students for careers in fields such as civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering.
Inside This Article:
- What fields are most important for ABET accreditation?
- List of ABET-accredited schools and programs
- How to verify ABET accreditation
- How to find the right ABET-accredited school for you
Why Does ABET Accreditation Matter?
ABET accreditation is essential for some careers, especially those that require licensure (like civil, mechanical, or electrical engineering). Employers and graduate schools often prefer — or even require — graduates from accredited programs because it guarantees they’ve been trained to meet professional standards. Accreditation can help you get jobs in government, research, consulting, and advanced tech.
While ABET accreditation is important, cost, financial aid, career outcomes and other factors also matter. Explore our rankings in our top engineering schools guide.
What Fields Benefit Most from ABET Accreditation?
ABET accreditation is key in fields where professional licensure is common. These include:
- Civil Engineering: Required for roles in public infrastructure, structural design, and urban planning.
- Mechanical Engineering: Critical for work in manufacturing, automotive, and aerospace.
- Electrical Engineering: Often necessary for jobs in power systems, telecommunications, and robotics.
- Chemical Engineering: Key in pharmaceuticals, environmental technology, and energy production.
Do All Top Engineering Schools Have ABET Accreditation?
Top engineering schools have ABET-accredited programs, but not for every field. For example, schools like MIT and Stanford have accreditation in mechanical and electrical engineering but may not seek it for emerging or interdisciplinary programs. If ABET accreditation is a priority for your career, it’s always worth confirming the program’s status.
As of Oct. 1, 2024, ABET accredits 4,773 programs at 930 colleges in 42 countries and regions. That’s 99 new programs since 2023. Within the U.S., ABET accredits 3,611 programs at 702 colleges.
Top ABET-Accredited Schools
Top engineering schools with ABET-accredited programs vary in how they approach engineering education. For example, MIT offers a wide range of programs, from chemical to nuclear engineering, giving students the flexibility to explore multiple disciplines. Purdue also provides a long list of options, including unique specialties like motorsports and healthcare engineering.
On the other hand, Caltech and Stanford keep their focus narrower. With fewer programs, they prioritize depth and hands-on research, which still draws top students and faculty. Public schools like the University of Michigan and Georgia Tech offer a balance, with extensive program choices and strong industry connections.
Top Engineering Schools and Their ABET-Accredited Programs
Best Public vs. Private ABET-Accredited Schools
- Public: UC Berkeley, University of Michigan, Georgia Tech – affordable, excellent resources, and industry connections.
- Private: MIT, Stanford, Carnegie Mellon – higher tuition but extensive financial aid and research opportunities.
Most Affordable ABET-Accredited Schools
- Purdue University: Competitive tuition and generous financial aid.
- University of Florida: Affordable in-state tuition with ABET-accredited mechanical and electrical engineering programs.
- Ohio State University: Lower tuition with wide-ranging accredited programs, accessible to both in-state and out-of-state students.
To explore a broader list of top engineering schools and their standout programs, check out our guide to top engineering schools.
How to Verify ABET Accreditation
To confirm ABET accreditation, use ABET’s Accreditation Search Tool, which allows searches by school, program or category. ABET accreditation is reviewed every six years, ensuring programs consistently meet standards. Verify accreditation for the specific discipline you’re interested in, as schools may only have accreditation in select programs. You can also see expired accreditations.
How to Select the Right ABET-Accredited School for You
Finding the right school involves more than just checking accreditation. Here’s what to consider:
- Specialization: Choose a school with a strong reputation in your field of interest.
- Cost and Aid: Compare costs and aid packages to see what’s affordable for you.
- Career Support: Consider job placement stats and how well the school supports students in launching their careers.
- Location: Think about whether the school’s location provides access to internships or other opportunities.
Schools like Purdue and UC Berkeley offer high-quality education at reasonable costs, making them excellent choices for both in-state and out-of-state students.
New Programs Seeking ABET Accreditation
Schools seeking ABET accreditation undergo a rigorous process, and any new program must graduate its first class before becoming eligible. However, if the program then earns accreditation, it becomes retroactive for that first class.
Peter Pitts, a retired regional admissions director for Monmouth College of Illinois, says he has noticed more small liberal arts schools adding engineering majors – and students may want to consider them.
“Many of them do not currently have ABET accreditation,” he says. “I know how important ABET accreditation is. But before you scratch a college off your list because they do not, at this moment, have ABET accreditation, you need to ask them these questions:
- Are you seeking ABET accreditation?
- When do you expect or did you have your first graduates?
- Have you submitted a readiness report?
- Have you submitted a self-study?
- Have you had an ABET accreditation on-campus visit?
- When do you expect to learn the result of seeking accreditation?”
Pitts adds: “So, if you really like the college and their science programs, don’t automatically scratch a college off your list just based on their current ABET status. Most of these colleges also (in addition to their own engineering programs) have 3+2 or 4+1 arrangements with large, well-known universities (such as Washington University, Columbia University, Duke, Notre Dame, and Case Western Reserve) that are ABET-accredited. Plus, they tend to have robust internship programs with well-known engineering firms and summer research opportunities at major ABET-accredited universities.”
FAQ About ABET-Accredited Schools
- How Important is ABET Accreditation for All Engineering Disciplines?
It’s critical for fields like civil, mechanical, and electrical engineering, where licensure is often required. For fields like software engineering, it’s beneficial but less essential. - Do Employers Care About ABET Accreditation?
Many employers value ABET-accredited graduates as it assures alignment with industry standards. - Are Online Engineering Programs ABET-Accredited?
Yes, some online programs are accredited, though options are limited. Verify each program’s status. - Can You Get Licensed Without Attending an ABET-Accredited School?
Licensure is generally easier with an ABET-accredited degree, but some states offer alternate paths to licensure from non-ABET programs.
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