STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) is a hot topic in higher education, with many colleges expanding their STEM programs to meet student demand. It’s tempting for STEM students to immediately explore institutions like MIT, Stanford, Purdue, and similar schools that are well-known for strong STEM programs, however there are other colleges with great STEM options that students may not immediately consider. Many of these colleges have unique programs with great ROI, making for an attractive college choice.
From exceptional engineering programs to unique math concentrations, here are Dr. Kat’s colleges for STEM majors.
Stony Brook University: Stony Brook, NY
In the shadow of colleges like NYU, Columbia, and Cornell, it can be hard for other New York-based universities to stand out. However, Stony Brook University on Long Island has made a name for itself in STEM education. Undergraduates in the College of Arts and Sciences can major in biochemistry, chemistry, engineering science, mathematics, physics, and more.
In addition to undergraduate science and math majors, the college is also home to the Institute for STEM Education (I-STEM), a STEM education-focused center with the aim of nurturing and developing talent across all STEM fields. The center offers a range of activities for graduate and undergraduate students, K-12 students and teachers, and college faculty. Since its inception in 1994, the center has educated more than 80,000 middle and high school students. Over 500 teachers have earned advanced teaching degrees in science and math in through the center’s programs.
Part of the State University of New York (SUNY) system, Stony Brook offers more than 60 majors and 80 minors. The campus is home to approximately 17,500 undergraduates. The town of Stony Brook is surrounded by natural beauty and historic landmarks, but students wanting a taste of city life have easy access to New York City by train — a 60-mile commute.
Southern Methodist University: Dallas, TX
Southern Methodist University is a private research university with an exceptional engineering program that’s sometimes overlooked in favor of larger, more well-known institutions. SMU might not be top of mind for STEM students, but the university’s Lyle School of Engineering offers a variety of undergraduate engineering and technology programs including civil and environmental engineering, electrical and computer engineering, mechanical engineering, and computer science.
Undergraduate engineering and technology students have access to the Deason Innovation Gym (DIG), which provides the tools and equipment for project planning and construction. Mechanical engineering students also have access to a machine shop. Research opportunities for undergraduates include the Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship (SURF), which exposes students to the latest scientific research conducted by SMU faculty.
Located in the culturally and historically rich city of Dallas, SMU is home to approximately 12,000 students — 7,000 of whom are undergrads. Students can get involved in one or more of the 200+ clubs and organizations as well as everything the Dallas metropolitan area has to offer.
Louisiana Tech University: Ruston, LA
Another college with a great engineering program that students might not immediately consider is Louisiana Tech University. The College of Engineering and Science offers a myriad of STEM majors including computer science, civil engineering, mathematics and statistics, construction engineering technology, and the nation’s first four-year undergraduate cyber engineering program. Louisiana Tech’s cyber engineering major combines computer science, electrical engineering, math, and humanities to develop solutions for cyber security.
All STEM students at Louisiana Tech complete project-based coursework, gaining practical skills in addition to theoretical knowledge. Additionally, students have opportunities to conduct research and participate in competitions. The Louisiana Tech College of Engineering and Science Design and Research Conference is held every year for first-year engineering majors and all seniors in the college to present their projects.
Founded in 1894, Louisiana Tech is a public university with a student population of approximately 11,600. The area surrounding Ruston offers mountain biking trails and parks for students to enjoy. On campus, students have access to a variety of intramural sports and recreational activities.
University of Washington: Seattle, WA
Considered a “Public Ivy,” the University of Washington in Seattle is one of the premier research universities in the U.S. with many areas of study for STEM students — including a unique mathematics department and a top-notch aeronautics program.
In UW’s Department of Mathematics, math students are not just educated on the fundamentals of mathematics, they also explore “abstract thinking, logical rigor, analysis, expository clarity, and critical writing.” Students can pursue traditional B.A. or B.S. degrees in math, but Washington also offers a unique philosophy option, allowing students to combine philosophical studies with mathematical reasoning. This degree track gives students a more liberal studies base, which is critical to the success of students in STEM fields.
Looking for a major that’s more out of this world? The aeronautics and astronautics department within the College of Engineering is one of the best of its kind, with alumni working at Boeing and SpaceX — among others — as well as the highest levels of NASA and other government organizations.
UW’s main campus in Seattle offers 180 majors and is home to more than 33,000 undergraduate students. On campus, students have access to more than 1,000 student-led clubs and organizations. Students can also enjoy a variety of events and activities in the vibrant city of Seattle and the surrounding area.
University of California San Diego: La Jolla, CA
Science-focused STEM students don’t always have to conform to the standard biology and chemistry majors. At the University of California San Diego, students interested in life sciences can major in earth sciences, marine biology, and more through UCSD’s Scripps Institution of Oceanography.
Undergraduates at Scripps have an opportunity to participate in individual and group research projects with faculty and researchers as well as present research at the Scripps Undergraduate Research Symposium. Field trips are a critical part of the curriculum, whether students are studying marine ecosystems or geological sites.
Part of the University of California system, UCSD is a highly ranked research university enrolling approximately 43,000 students. The campus offers plenty to do outside of academics, with more than 570 student organizations. Aside from world-class academics and a vibrant campus life, students are attracted to UCSD due to its location near the Pacific Ocean. Check out our tips for applying to UC schools.
Students interested in STEM should spend time in high school developing their interests and participating in STEM-based activities in order to narrow and specialize their focus. Doing ample research is key to finding great-fit STEM programs that match students’ needs and goals.
If you need help researching STEM programs or finding relevant extracurricular activities to deepen your experience in a STEM-related field, contact us today for more information on our counseling services.
