Accounting Career Information: A Guide to Your Future Accounting Position

Accountant at laptop

Simply put, accountants are in charge of making sure all the money adds up.

They keep records, balance accounts, perform audits, and assist individuals and businesses with preparing their taxes and making investments.

All careers in public accounting include numbers in some way, shape, or form, so as an accountant in training, prepare to spend a lot of time looking at spreadsheets and doing mathematical calculations.

Typically, there are four main types of accounting careers: public accounting, government accounting, internal auditing, and management accounting. Within these fields are several different positions that call upon specialized accounting skills.

Types of Accountants

One of the great things about the accounting career field is that you can choose from several different positions. Here are some of the most popular accounting jobs:

Public accountantsThese professionals help clients make solid investments and audit their financial records to ensure that they are correct.
Forensic accountantsThis sub-field of practice involves investigating securities fraud, embezzlement, and other crimes involving finances. While you won’t be chasing down crooks, setting up wiretaps, or anything like that, it’s a great career for anyone who enjoys solving puzzles and figuring out how transactions took place.
Government accountantsThese professionals maintain financial records, audit individuals or businesses, and prepare local, state, or even federal budgets. Working for local and state governments usually means ensuring that income and expenditures are made in accordance with the many laws that surround government spending. On the federal level, accountants can work for the IRS and may specialize in tax law, receiving and filing tax returns and even conducting tax audits.
Internal auditorsAlthough the IRS may perform an audit of a company, businesses often audit themselves first to make sure there’s no fraud or wasteful expenditures. Depending on the size of the business, these audits are generally handled by internal auditors. These auditors do more than just make sure all the numbers add up as they should—they also look at how a company manages its money by evaluating the organization’s procedures and record-keeping system. Internal auditors may also evaluate the software a company uses to handle its financial records, so some familiarity with computer programs will be useful to accountants in this area.
Management accountantsThese accountants record and analyze all the financial data for their company. They create company budgets, evaluate financial records, and work to create a fiscally responsible, strategic plan for the organization. Management accountants often have a lot of input in the direction a company is taking and their advice may result in sweeping changes, both in the company’s organizational structure and the products and services it offers.

Accountant Job Description

accountant-5

Careers in accounting always involve taxes, taxes, and more taxes.

If you decide to specialize in taxes, you’ll do a lot of work between January and April—the traditional tax time. However, you’ll also have some things to do off-season, especially if you also offer small business consultation. New companies always need advice on taxes, especially when it comes to collecting employment taxes like FICA and Social Security.

Generally, an accountant’s duties and responsibilities demand that they spend their working hours in offices, although some occasionally work at home or need to travel to another location to examine records. Typically, accountants don’t need to work over 40 hours a week, although those who focus on taxes will find themselves putting in a lot more time during tax season.

There really is no simple and neat accounting job description that fits all types of accounting positions. The accounting career field is so broad that you may work in private business or government, in accounts payable or as a manager, or in budgeting or compensation management. But there are some common responsibilities that are typically found in accounting job descriptions which include.

  • Preparing financial statements, including profit and loss, balance sheets, and analytical reports.
  • Assisting in decision making activities by providing insightful information about the financial state and future of an organization. This includes strategic planning, budgeting and forecasting, and liaising with stockholders and investors as a management accountant.
  • Writing and inputting entries from originating documents into accounting ledgers. This may be completed by hand or on the computer using accounting software.
  • Balancing subsidiary accounts and general ledgers, ensuring accuracy of information.
  • Identifying and resolving discrepancies.
  • Developing budgets using historical and forecasting information.
  • Analyzing financial trends.
  • Comparing actual and budgeted expenditures.
  • Inputting data to generate payroll or accounts payable checks, or invoices.
  • Using software for accounting, database management, graphing, and report generation activities.
  • Developing and recommending accounting policies and procedures.
  • Making financial presentations, as requested.
  • Performing audits or collaborating with auditors to ensure accuracy of accounting records.
  • Educating high school, college, and other students, as well as new employees, in an effort to encourage continuing education and train new colleagues.
  • Supporting litigation as a forensic accountant by researching, analyzing, and reporting financial information.
  • Collecting and analyzing personnel and compensation data while managing benefits programs to ensure cost effectiveness and accuracy as a human resources and benefits management accountant.
  • Coordinating with IT specialists to ensure that financial reporting programs are secure and accurate.

Of course, individual accounting job descriptions are customized to the needs of specific organizations and individuals.

For example, a job description for an auditor might include specific responsibilities related to the inspection of documents and entries for the purpose of verifying accuracy. Similarly, a tax accountant job description might include functions such as preparing local, state, and federal tax forms, or advising clients on how to best manage their taxes.

Job descriptions for higher level accountants, like a Chief Financial Officer or a Director of Benefits and Compensation Accountant, will include job functions involving budget and financial planning, strategy setting, managing personnel, and many other advanced duties.

Why is a Career in Accounting a Great Field to Pursue in Today’s World?

accountant-3According to the U.S. Department of Labor, accounting jobs are expected to grow by 11 percent between the years 2014 and 2024. A number of factors drive the demand for accountants, including:

  • Increased government regulation that requires higher transparency
  • More laws related to accounting practices
  • Increasingly complex tax laws
  • Growing awareness of need to maintain audit-proof financial records
  • Mounting number of home-based businesses needing accounting assistance
  • Expansion of businesses due to globalization, resulting in complicated accounting practices
  • Swell in white collar crimes
  • Outsourcing trends amongst a variety of organizations

Due to these factors, among others, accounting jobs will need to be filled in a number of areas, including general accounting and tax preparation. Because of the outsourcing trend, which deals in human resources and other tasks, it may be possible for you to become an accounting consultant for specific issues if you have developed expertise in another area (i.e., if accounting is your second career).

In addition to simply being available, accounting jobs are challenging, flexible, and profitable. You can easily work for a company or go into business for yourself, allowing you to define your experience as an accounting professional. While most accountants work in public and management accounting as CPAs, you can continue to pursue a career as an accountant if you would rather not earn this certification.

According to the U.S. Department of Labor, there will be 1,332,700 accounting and auditing jobs available between the years 2014 and 2024.  Whether it is your primary job or a second source of income, you can work full- or part-time to fill these anticipated positions. As of May 2015, the median annual wage for accountants and auditors was $67,190, which is an hourly pay rate of $32.30.

Is Specialization the Way to Go?

For those who want a career change from public accounting, the increasing number and complexity of government laws and agency regulations means large and small businesses need specialized accounting help. You may find the opportunity to work with a corporation as an internal auditor, or you can work as a self-employed accountant providing a variety of accounting services.

Even the Internet has benefitted the accounting field. Most notably, a large portion of accounting functions can now be managed using remote access. This makes it possible to work for people or businesses in other geographic locations. Additionally, businesses are able to conduct international transactions, which require knowledge of international accounting and tax rules. In this way, the Internet has expanded the areas of specialization available to accounting professionals.

Want to Work from Home? No Problem!

accountant-4Because accounting is a largely independent profession, it is one that can be easily carried out from home. With a computer, accounting software, printer, fax, copier, scanner, and Internet access, you can quickly set up your home office and start building your clientele. Naturally, your accounting salary depends on the number and types of clients served. As a result, your income may correlate with the amount of hours you dedicate to your work.

Technology has made it possible to do accounting work from home, but economic factors are driving the variety and quantity of available opportunities. The number of small businesses is growing, and many of these businesses don’t need a full-time accountant and rely on outsourced financial services (which you can provide). Even larger businesses are outsourcing many of their accounting functions in order to manage their expenditures as effectively as possible. These factors can create a mutually beneficial arrangement between these organizations and your new business, allowing them to save money by outsourcing their accounting work and you to earn money by taking it on.

As a home-based accountant, you can pursue the following kind of work:

  • Assisting businesses or individuals with tax form preparation.
  • Providing full-service bookkeeping.
  • Processing insurance forms.
  • Preparing financial presentations.
  • Consulting with businesses as a cost-reduction efficiency expert.
  • Preparing payrolls, tax deposit forms, and required monthly, quarterly, and annual tax summary reports.
  • Helping start-up businesses structure their financial operations.
  • Setting up accounting procedures and controls for small business website activity (i.e. shopping carts, credit card payments, sales reporting, etc.)

Improve Your Own Profit Margin

More and more often, people are working from home for different reasons. Businesses are scaling back their payrolls and millions of people have lost their jobs. Individuals are looking for part-time work to increase household income. Retirees are running home businesses as a way to supplement their retirement savings. Additionally, working from home is a convenient solution for stay-at-home parents who want to contribute to the household income. And let’s face it—millions of budding entrepreneurs have dreamed of owning a business.

A home-based business requires very little overhead, enables you to work a flexible schedule, and gives you control of your career. All of these factors help you improve your profit margin and increase your income. One of the best qualities of accounting is that countless businesses and individuals need the services of an accountant. You can determine what niche you want to serve and then market your home-based business to clients across the country through the Internet.

Use Your Financial and People Skills

An accountant working from home uses financial skills learned in accounting school, but must also develop excellent customer service skills. As an entrepreneur, your communication skills will be an important determinant of your success. Working one-on-one with clients, you will need to gain their confidence in your accounting and financial abilities.

Want to Change Careers? Go for It!

Thinking about switching to a career in accounting at 40 years old or older? If you listen to the naysayers, they will probably tell you that accounting career change is a bit risky. They may have a point, but these days every career move is a bit risky! In today’s world, you do not have to stick with a job simply because you have it. You can change careers and, as a result, finally love your work.

According to an article posted on the U.S. News and World Report , 8.4 million older Americans have already chosen to start second careers. Likewise, an AARP commercial shows older people saying, “When I grow up, I want to be…” The message is clear—you can pursue new interests, like accounting, as a second career even if you are 40 years old or older!

Accounting: The Bottom Line

accountant-6People who choose an accounting career enjoy working with detail and get satisfaction out of analyzing information for the benefit of an organization or client. A position as an accountant can vary significantly from business to business, which is largely why the field is growing. The variety of positions you will qualify for once you earn your Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting ensures that you can build a flexible and diverse career.

Today’s successful accountants typically hold one or more of the following:

  • Bachelor’s Degree
  • Master’s Degree
  • Certified Public Accountant (CPA)
  • Certified Forensic Accountant (Cr. FA)
  • Certified Internal Auditor (CIS)
  • Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
  • Certified Government Auditing Professional (CGAP)

After earning the appropriate degree or certification, you may secure one of these positions:

  • Cost Accountant
  • Financial Analyst
  • Forensic Accountant
  • Staff Accountant
  • Budget Analyst
  • Accounts Payable Specialist
  • Controller
  • Tax Manager
  • Information Systems Auditor
  • Vice President of Financial Affairs
  • Internal Auditor
  • Director of Compensation

This is just a sample of possible titles. Careers in accounting often start with a staff position as a general accountant after earning a Bachelor’s Degree. With an advanced degree and certification, you can quickly move forward to higher paying jobs that include supervisory and management responsibilities, or strategy planning.

So, what’s the bottom line? It’s that an accounting degree can help you create a fascinating career!

Top 15 Mechanical Engineering Schools in the Plains – 2016 Rankings

plains-400Are you already sure mechanical engineering is the right degree field for you and you’re just trying to narrow down the school? If so, this list will give you to top mechanical engineering schools in the plains.

All the schools in this list are accredited through the ABET and offer either a BS or BSME in Mechanical Engineering. In addition, all are located in the plains region which includes the following states: Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.

Both public and private schools make up the study. The criteria include; student to faculty ratio, tuition (both in-state and out-of-state), percentage of students who receive scholarships, the amount of money the average student receives in scholarships, the percentage of students who are admitted, the percentage of those admitted who enroll, the 8-year graduation rate, and the size of the mechanical engineering department including both undergraduate and graduate students.

Mechanical Engineering College Rankings for the Plains States

Top mechanical engineering colleges and universities in the plains region:

  1. Washington University 
  2. University of St. Thomas 
  3. University of Minnesota – Twin Cities  
  4. Missouri University of Science and Technology
  5. Saint Louis University
  6. University of Missouri – Columbia  
  7. University of Nebraska – Lincoln 
  8. University of Iowa  
  9. University of Missouri – Kansas City  
  10. University of Kansas  
  11. University of Missouri – St. Louis 
  12. Wichita State University    
  13. North Dakota State University
  14. Iowa State University 
  15. South Dakota State University 

The following includes a complete breakdown of the schools by state along with further details about each school.

The details were provided by the National Center for Education Statistics along with the school websites. The statistics are based on the undergraduate program unless otherwise specified. Data were collected in 2016 which means they are often based on the 2015-2106 school year.

Top Iowa Mechanical Engineering Schools

Here are the top mechanical engineering programs in Iowa, in order by their ranking.

 

University of Iowa                           Score: 55.3

  • Mechanical Engineering, BSE
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1936-Present

University of Iowa

The University of Iowa is a public college located in Iowa City, Iowa which is classified as a small city.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 15%
  • Female students: 52%
  • Students 24 and under: 92%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 81%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 25%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 127
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 10

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 30,844 (23,357 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 15 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $8,104
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $27,890
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 77% (the average student received $8,816)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 540/ACT Math 22
  • 8-year graduation rates: 71%

Iowa State University                     Score: 48.6

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1936-Present

Iowa State University

Iowa State University is a public institute located in the small city of Ames, Iowa.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 4%
  • Female students: 43%
  • Students 24 and under: 95%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 87%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 37%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 316
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 0

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 35,714 (30,034 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 19 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $7,736
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $20,856
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 76% (the average student received $7,381)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 500/ACT Math 21
  • 8-year graduation rates: 70%

Top Kansas Mechanical Engineering Schools

Here are the top mechanical engineering programs in Kansas, in order by their ranking.

 

University of Kansas                       Score: 50.6

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1936-Present

University of Kansas

The University of Kansas is a public school located in the small city of Lawrence, Kansas.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 11%
  • Female students: 50%
  • Students 24 and under: 90%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 93%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 30%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 115
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 18

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 27,259 (19,245 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 16 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $10,825
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $26,659
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 71% (the average student received $7,560)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: ACT Math 21
  • 8-year graduation rates: 64%

 


Wichita State University                                Score: 49.2

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1961-Present

Wichita State University

Wichita State University is a public college located in the large city of Wichita, Kansas.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 25%
  • Female students: 53%
  • Students 24 and under: 72%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 95%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 28%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 79
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 29

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 14,240 (11,501 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 18 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $7,528
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $15,851
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 91% (the average student received $4,143)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 480/ACT Math 20
  • 8-year graduation rates: 54%

Top Minnesota Mechanical Engineering Schools

Here are the top mechanical engineering programs in Minnesota, in order by their ranking.

 

University of St. Thomas               Score: 61.8

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1999-Present

University of St. Thomas

The University of St. Thomas is a private, not-for-profit located in the large city of St. Paul, Minnesota.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 5%
  • Female students: 46%
  • Students 24 and under: 94%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 84%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 31%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 84
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 23

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 10,148 (6,143 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 14 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $38,105
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $38,105
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 97% (the average student received $19,743)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 510/ACT Math 24
  • 8-year graduation rates: 77%

University of Minnesota – Twin Cities      Score: 59.4

  • Mechanical Engineering, BME
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1936-Present

University of Minnesota - Twin Cities

University of Minnesota – Twin Cities is a public institute located in the large city of Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 14%
  • Female students: 52%
  • Students 24 and under: 90%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 45%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 28%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 219
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 67

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 50,678 (34,071 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 17 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $13,790
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $22,210
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 57% (the average student received $8,445)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 620/ACT Math 25
  • 8-year graduation rates: 77%

Top Missouri Mechanical Engineering Schools

Here are the top mechanical engineering programs in Missouri, in order by their ranking.

 

Washington University                  Score: 74.4

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1936-Present

Washington University

Washington University is a private not-for-profit institute located in the large suburb of St. Louis, Missouri.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 95%
  • Female students: 53%
  • Students 24 and under: 92%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 17%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 35%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 76
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 43

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 14,688 (7,504 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 8 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $48,093
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $48,093
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 46% (the average student received $32,626)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 710/ACT Math 31
  • 8-year graduation rates: 95%

Missouri University of Science and Technology  Score: 57.4

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1950-Present

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Missouri University of Science and Technology is a public college located in the remote town of Rolla, Missouri.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 10%
  • Female students: 23%
  • Students 24 and under: 93%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 88%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 47%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 219
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 42

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 8,886 (6,839 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 19 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $9,048
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $24,470
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 91% (the average student received $8,805)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 560/ACT Math 26
  • 8-year graduation rates: 67%

Saint Louis University                     Score: 57.1

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1996-Present

St. Louis University

Saint Louis University is a private not-for-profit institute located in the large city of St. Louis, Missouri.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 44%
  • Female students: 59%
  • Students 24 and under: 92%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 63%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 19%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 20
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 0

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 17,047 (12,401 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 11 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $39,226
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $39,226
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 95% (the average student received $20,195)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 560/ACT Math 24
  • 8-year graduation rates: 70%

University of Missouri – Columbia               Score: 53.9

  • Mechanical Engineering, BSME
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1936-Present

University of Missouri - Columbia

University of Missouri – Columbia is a public school located in the midsize city of Columbia, Missouri.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 6%
  • Female students: 52%
  • Students 24 and under: 94%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 78%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 36%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 127
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 20

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 35,424 (27,791 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 20 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $9,509
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $25,166
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 69% (the average student received $8,451)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 530/ACT Math 23
  • 8-year graduation rates: 71%

University of Missouri – Kansas City         Score: 52.5

  • Mechanical Engineering, BSME
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1978-Present

University of Missouri - Kansas

University of Missouri – Kansas City is a public university located in Kansas City, Missouri, which is classified as a large city.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 41%
  • Female students: 57%
  • Students 24 and under: 80%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 63%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 38%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 32
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 5

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 16,685 (11,243 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 14 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $7,837
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $18,366
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 82% (the average student received $7,562)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 520/ACT Math 20
  • 8-year graduation rates: 54%

University of Missouri – St. Louis                               Score: 50.2

  • Mechanical Engineering, BSME
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1999-Present

University of Missouri - St. Louis

The University of Missouri – St. Louis is a public university located in the large suburb of St. Louis, Missouri.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 58%
  • Female students: 58%
  • Students 24 and under: 74%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 76%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 38%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 27
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 0

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 16,738 (13,545 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 17 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $9,394
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $23,812
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 90% (the average student received $12,278)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: ACT Math 19
  • 8-year graduation rates: 50%

Top Nebraska Mechanical Engineering Schools

Here is the top mechanical engineering program in Nebraska.

 

University of Nebraska – Lincoln                                Score: 53.9

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1936-Present

University of Nebraska

University of Nebraska – Lincoln is a public school located in the large city of Lincoln, Nebraska.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 7%
  • Female students: 47%
  • Students 24 and under: 94%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 76%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 62%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 78
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 21

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 25,260 (20,182 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 21 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $8,367
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $22,534
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 73% (the average student received $7,394)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 500/ACT Math 21
  • 8-year graduation rates: 70%

Top North Dakota Mechanical Engineering Schools

Here is the top mechanical engineering program in North Dakota.

 

North Dakota State University   Score: 49.0

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1940-Present

North Dakota State University

North Dakota State University is a public college located in Fargo, North Dakota which is classified as a midsize city.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 11%
  • Female students: 45%
  • Students 24 and under: 92%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 94%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 51%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 95
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 16

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 14,516 (12,037 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 18 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $8,098
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $19,392
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 61% (the average student received $4,657)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 500/ACT Math 21
  • 8-year graduation rates: 56%

Top South Dakota Mechanical Engineering Schools

Here is the top mechanical engineering program in South Dakota.

South Dakota State University   Score: 48.2

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1936-Present

South Dakota State University

South Dakota State University is a public university located in the remote town of Brookings, South Dakota.

Demographics:

  • Percentage of part-time students: 22%
  • Female students: 53%
  • Students 24 and under: 89%

Admissions/Completions:

  • Percent admitted: 92%
  • Percent admitted who enrolled: 48%
  • Mechanical engineering undergraduate degrees awarded: 59
  • Mechanical engineering graduate degrees awarded: 9

Further Statistics:

  • Student population: 12,576 (10,994 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 17 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $8,172
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $11,053
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 68% (the average student received $4,069)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 470/ACT Math 18
  • 8-year graduation rates: 59%

Top 15 Rocky Mountain Mechanical Engineering Schools – 2016 Rankings

rocky-mountains-350Thinking about getting a degree in mechanical engineering? Like the beauty, activities, and culture of the Rocky Mountain region?

This list presents you with the top 15 mechanical engineering schools in the Rocky Mountain region. All the schools on this list are accredited through the ABET and offer a Mechanical Engineering BS or BSME. In addition, they are all located within the Rocky Mountains which includes the following states: Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Utah, and Wyoming.

Both public and private schools make up the study. The criteria include; student to faculty ratio, tuition (both in-state and out-of-state), percentage of students who receive scholarships, the amount of money the average student receives in scholarships, the percentage of students who are admitted, the percentage of those admitted who enroll, the 8-year graduation rate, and the size of the mechanical engineering department including both undergraduate and graduate students.

Rocky Mountain Mechanical Engineering College Rankings

Here is the list of the top Mechanical Engineering Colleges and Universities in the Rocky Mountain region:

  1. Brigham Young University
  2. Colorado School of Mines 
  3. University of Denver
  4. University of Utah
  5. University of Idaho
  6. University of Colorado at Boulder
  7. University of Wyoming
  8. Colorado State University
  9. Boise State University
  10. University of Colorado Denver
  11. University of Colorado at Colorado Springs
  12. Utah State University
  13. Montana State University – Bozeman
  14. Brigham Young University – Idaho
  15. Idaho State University

You can find the breakdown of the schools by state along with more details below or by clicking on one of the top ranking colleges in the list above.

The details were provided by the National Center for Education Statistics along with the school websites. The statistics are based on the undergraduate program unless otherwise specified. Data were collected in 2016 which means they are often based on the 2015-2106 school year.

Top Colorado Mechanical Engineering Schools

Here are the top mechanical engineering programs in Colorado, in order by their ranking.

Colorado School of Mines                           Score: 59.6

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1936-Present

Colorado School of Mines

Colorado School of Mines is a public school located in a large suburb in Golden, Colorado.

Most of the students attend the school full-time. Only 5% of the undergraduate student body attend part-time. Most of the students who attend are 24 or under. The percentage of female students is low. Women make up only 28% of the student population.

Colorado School of Mines admitted 38% of applicants in Fall of 2015. Out of those admitted, 23% ended up enrolling in the school.

The mechanical engineering program at the Colorado School of Mines is large. 131 Bachelor degrees were completed in the 2014-2015 school year. 32 graduate degrees were completed that same year.

Further Colorado School of Mines Statistics:

  • Student population:   6,054 (4,605 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 16 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $17,353
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $34,828
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 77% (the average student received $9,741)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 330/ACT Math 28
  • 8-year graduation rates: 72%

University of Denver                                     Score: 58.9

  • Mechanical Engineering, BSME
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1988-Present

University of Denver

The University of Denver is a private, not-for-profit school. It’s located in Denver, Colorado which is a large, metropolitan city.

Most of the students attending the University of Denver attend full-time. About half the student population is female and 95% of the students are 24 and under. 60% are from out-of-state.

The University of Denver admitted 73% of the students who applied in fall of 2015. Of those who were admitted, 13% enrolled.

The mechanical engineering program at the University of Denver is on the small-to-medium side with 26 students completing their Bachelor’s degree in 2015. In addition, the University offers graduate degrees. There were 10 graduate degrees completed in 2015.

Further University of Denver Statistics:

  • Student population: 11,797 (5,758 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 11 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $44,178
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $44,178
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 83% (the average student received $25,047)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 560/ACT Math 25
  • 8-year graduation rates: 78%


University of Colorado at Boulder             Score: 51.6

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/2011-Present

University of Colorado at Boulder

The University of Colorado at Boulder is a public institute in Boulder, Colorado, which is classified as a small city.

It’s a traditional college where only 8% of the student population attends part-time. About half the students are female and most all are 24 years of age or under.

In 2015, the University admitted 80% of its applicants. Of those that were admitted, 25% enrolled.

The University of Colorado at Boulder has a very large mechanical engineering program. In the 2015 school year there were 196 undergraduate degrees in mechanical engineering granted. In addition, there were 72 graduate degrees granted that same school year.

Further University of Colorado at Boulder Statistics:

  • Student population: 33,056 (27,142 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 18 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $11,091
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $34,125
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 47% (the average student received $9,408)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 540/ACT Math 24
  • 8-year graduation rates: 72%


Colorado State University                            Score: 50.2

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1938-Present

Colorado State University

Colorado State University is a public university located in Fort Collins, Colorado. Fort Collins is classified as a midsize city. 13% of the school’s undergraduate students attend on a part-time status. The ratio of males to females is about equal. Most of the students are 24 and under with 76% of them coming from in-state.

Colorado State University admit 81% of its fall 2015 applicants. 32% of those admitted enrolled in the school.

The mechanical engineering program at Colorado State is fairly large. 134 students graduated during the 2015 school year with their Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. The school also offers graduate degrees in mechanical engineering with 25 graduating with a Master’s or PhD in the 2015 school year.

Further Colorado State University Statistics:

  • Student population: 30,614 (23,917 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 18 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $10,558
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $27,267
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 59% (the average student received $7,240)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 520/ACT Math 22
  • 8-year graduation rates: 66%


University of Colorado Denver                   Score: 47.1

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1982-Present

University of Colorado at Denver

The University of Colorado Denver is a public college located in Denver, Colorado. Denver is a large, metropolitan city.

The school is fairly progressive with 43% of its undergraduate students attending part-time. About half the student population is female and 76% of its students are 24 and under. 24% of the student population is 25 and over. 91% of the students are from within the state of Colorado.

During the 2015 school year, 67% of all applicants were admitted into the school. Of those, 24% enrolled in the school.

The mechanical engineering program at University of Colorado Denver is midsized. In 2015, 56 undergraduate degrees in mechanical engineering were granted. During that same year, 20 graduate degrees in mechanical engineering were granted.

Further University of Colorado Denver Statistics:

  • Student population: 23,671 (14,036 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 16 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $8,692
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $23,704
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 54% (the average student received $6,030)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 480/ACT Math 19
  • 8-year graduation rates: 45%


University of Colorado at Colorado Springs           Score: 46.6

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/2002-Present

University of Colorado at Colorado Springs

The University of Colorado at Colorado Springs is a public institute located in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Colorado Springs is classified as a large city.

25% of the undergraduate students enrolled attend the school part-time. Just 74% of the students are age 24 and under.

In 2015, 92% of the applicants were admitted while 22% of those admitted enrolled.

The mechanical engineering program is mid-sized with 69 Bachelor’s degrees and 17 graduate degrees granted in the 2015 school year.

Further University of Colorado at Colorado Springs Statistics:

  • Student population: 11,988 (9,970 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 15 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $7,692
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $17,988
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 58% (the average student received $4,779)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 470/ACT Math 19
  • 8-year graduation rates: 49%

Top Idaho Mechanical Engineering Schools

Here are the top mechanical engineering programs in Idaho, in order of their ranking.

 

University of Idaho                                         Score: 52.6

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1936-Present

University of Idaho

The University of Idaho is a public university located in the rural area of Moscow, Idaho. The population of the school consists of 19% part-time students, nearly equal female to male ratios, and 88% of the students are 24 and under.

From the 2015 pool of applicants, 72% were admitted while 35% of those admitted enrolled.

The mechanical engineering program at the University of Idaho is midsized. In the 2015-2016 school year, 79 students graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering. Another 15 were granted graduate degrees in mechanical engineering.

Further University of Idaho Statistics:

  • Student population: 11,372 (9,116 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 16 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $7,020
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $21,024
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 79% (the average student received $7,482)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 470/ACT Math 20
  • 8-year graduation rates: 57%


Boise State University                                    Score: 48.1

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1997-Present

Boise State University

Boise State University is a public university located in the midsized city of Boise, Idaho. The school is fairly progressive as 37% of the student population attend part-time and 26% are 25 years old or over. Most of the students are from within the state of Idaho.

During Fall of 2015, 80% of the students who applied were admitted while 34% of those admitted enrolled.

The Boise State University mechanical engineering program is fairly large. During the 2015-2016 school year 93 undergraduate and 4 graduate degrees in mechanical engineering were granted.

Further Boise State University Statistics:

  • Student population: 22,086 (19,103 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 17 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $6,876
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $20,926
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 67% (the average student received $8,341)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 460/ACT Math 19
  • 8-year graduation rates: 45%


Brigham Young University – Idaho             Score: 41.1

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/2004-Present

Brigham Young University – Idaho

Brigham Young University is a private not-for-profit school located in the distant town of Rexburg, Idaho. This school is associated with the Latter Day Saints (Mormon Church).

The student population is progressive in as much as 61% of the students attend part-time and 45% are 25 years old or over. 57% of the school is female and 79% are from out-of-state.

In the Fall of 2015, 100% of the applicants were admitted while 47% who were admitted enrolled.

The mechanical engineering program is fairly large with 103 undergraduate degrees granted in the 2015 school year. There were no graduate degrees granted during that time-frame.

Further Brigham Young University – Idaho Statistics:

  • Student population: 43,803 (all undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 25 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $3,830
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $3,830
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 50% (the average student received $3,049)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 450/ACT Math 18
  • 8-year graduation rates: 72%


Idaho State University                                   Score: 37.3

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1998-Present

Idaho State University

Idaho State University is a public college located in the small city of Pocatello, Idaho. 38% of the student population attends the school part-time. 29% of the student body is 25 years of age and over. Idaho State University has an open admission policy.

The mechanical engineering program at Idaho State is fairly small with 15 undergraduate degrees and 2 graduate degrees granted during the 2015 school year.

Further Idaho State University Statistics:

  • Student population: 13,078 (11,200 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 15 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $6,784
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $20,182
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 67% (the average student received $5,920)
  • 8-year graduation rates: 38%

Top Montana Mechanical Engineering Schools

Here is the top mechanical engineering program in Montana.

 

Montana State University            Score: 43.6

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1936-Present

Montana State University

Montana State University is a public school located in the remote town of Bozeman, Montana.

During the Fall of 2015, 83% of the applicants were admitted while 25% of those admitted chose to enroll.

The mechanical engineering program at Montana State University is large with 118 undergraduate degrees awarded during the 2015-2016 school year. An additional 5 graduate mechanical engineering degrees were also awarded.

Further Montana State University Statistics:

  • Student population: 15,236 (13,633 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 19 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $6,849
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $22,081
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 78% (the average student received $5,973)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 510/ACT Math 21
  • 8-year graduation rates: 53%

Top Utah Mechanical Engineering Schools

Here are the top mechanical engineering programs in Utah, in order by their ranking.

 

Brigham Young University                            Score: 63.5

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1960-Present

byu

Brigham Young University is a private not-for-profit school located in the midsize city of Provo, Utah. The school is affiliated with the Latter Day Saints (Mormon Church).

The make-up of the school includes 48% female students; 89% 24 and under, 10% attending part-time, and 62% out-of-state.

Brigham Young University admitted 48% of the applicants who applied in the fall of 2015. 80% of those who were admitted enrolled in the school.

Brigham Young University has a large mechanical engineering program. There were 127 undergraduate degrees in mechanical engineering granted during the 2015 school year. In addition, 50 graduate degrees were granted during the 2015 school year.

Further Brigham Young University Statistics:

  • Student population: 33,469 (30,221 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 20 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $5,150
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $5,150
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 51% (the average student received $4,629)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 580/ACT Math 26
  • 8-year graduation rates: 86%

University of Utah                                          Score: 55.9

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1936-Present

University of Utah

The University of Utah is a public school located in the midsized city of Salt Lake City, Utah.

The student population is made up of 44% female students with 73% of both men and women attending being in the 24 and younger age bracket. 29% of the students attend part-time.

During the Fall of 2015 school year, 81% of the applicants were admitted while 34% of those admitted enrolling.

The University of Utah of mechanical engineering program is large. There were 138 undergraduate degrees granted during the 2015 school year. In additional 68 graduate degrees were also granted which makes this school one of the largest mechanical engineering granting graduate programs in the Rocky Mountain region.

Further University of Utah Statistics:

  • Student population: 31,592 (23,794 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 16 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $8,197
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $26,022
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 68% (the average student received $7,725)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 510/ACT Math 20
  • 8-year graduation rates: 74%

Utah State University                                     Score: 46.5

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1961-Present

Utah State University

Utah State University is a public university located in the small town of Logan, Utah.

The school is comprised of a nearly equal ratio of men to women. 79% of the student body is 24 years old and under while 32% attend on a part-time basis.

During Fall of 2015, 97% of the applicants were admitted with 30% ultimately enrolling.

The mechanical engineering program at Utah State University is large with 102 undergraduate degrees and 19 graduate degrees granted during the 2015 school year.

Further Utah State University Statistics:

  • Student population: 28,622 (25,259 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 22 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $7,260
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $19,760
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 74% (the average student received $7,382)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 470/ACT Math 19
  • 8-year graduation rates: 59%

Top Wyoming Mechanical Engineering Schools

Here is the top mechanical engineering program in Wyoming.

University of Wyoming                                  Score: 51.5

  • Mechanical Engineering, BS
  • ABET Accreditation: 10/01/1941-Present

University of Wyoming

The University of Wyoming is a public school located in the remote town of Laramie, Wyoming. It is fairly progressive with 16% of the student body attending part-time and 44% attending from out-of-state. In addition, 52% of the student body is female and 78% are 24 years of age and under.

During Fall of 2015, 96% of the applicants were admitted while 38% of those admitted enrolled.

The mechanical engineering department at the University of Wyoming is midsized with 43 undergraduate and 5 graduate degrees in mechanical engineering granted during the 2015-2016 school year.

Further University of Wyoming Statistics:

  • Student population: 12,648 (10,045 undergraduate)
  • Student-to-faculty ratio: 14 to 1
  • Tuition and fees (in-state): $4,892
  • Tuition and fees (out-of-state): $15,632
  • Percentage of undergrads receiving grant or scholarship aid: 87% (the average student received $7,029)
  • Test scores (25th Percentile) for enrolled first-time students: SAT Math 490/ACT Math 21
  • 8-year graduation rates: 58%

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