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50 Great Scholarships for Education and Teaching DegreeIn this article, we present 50 great scholarships for students getting education and teaching degrees. These are available for study at any accredited college or university, although they may carry residency requirement (applicants must be from a certain state or county).1. The Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher ScholarshipAdministered by the National Institute for Labor Relations Research, the Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher Scholarship is an annual program that awards an eligible graduate or undergraduate student majoring in education with a $1,000 scholarship. To be eligible for the scholarship, students need to demonstrate their potential to finish their studies and be awarded a teacher’s license upon completion. They must also demonstrate an understanding of principles of voluntary unionism and how it relates to compulsory unionism in the context of the education professions. Applications are received between October 1 and December 21.The Applegate-Jackson-Parks Future Teacher Scholarship2. The JCCs of North America Graduate Education Scholarship ProgramThe Jewish Community Centers of North America Graduate Education Scholarship Program awards up to five eligible full-time graduate students with up to $10,000 per year for a one- or two-year period. To be eligible for the scholarship, students need to be pursuing MA degrees that will allow them to begin their careers in the JCC Movement. In the case of education, that means health and physical education, as well as early childhood education. Applicants are expected to complete a field placement at a JCC if they are awarded the scholarship. Application deadlines are revealed after September 1 for the next year.The JCCs of North America Graduate Education Scholarship Program3. Audrey L. Wright ScholarshipThe Audrey L. Wright Scholarship, administered by the Grand Rapids Foundation, awards scholarships between $500 and $5,000 to undergraduate students of Education or Foreign Languages who have been residents of Kent County, MI for at least 3 years, have a minimum 3.0 GPA and can demonstrate financial need. The applications for the scholarships are received every year between January 1 and April 1.Audrey L. Wright Scholarship4. Carroll C. Hall Memorial ScholarshipThe Carroll C. Hall Memorial Scholarship is a scholarship program administered by the Tau Kappa Epsilon Educational Foundation. The program awards $400 scholarships to eligible Tau Kappa Epsilon members who are pursuing undergraduate degrees in Education or Science. To be eligible, applicants need to be Tau Kappa Epsilon members with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, and must be recognized for leadership in the fraternity chapter, on campus or in the community. Applicants need to plan to pursue a career in teaching or the field of science. Applications are received until March 15.Carroll C. Hall Memorial Scholarship5. Charles K. & Ola I. Gose Scholarship FundThe Charles K. & Ola I. Gose Scholarship Fund is a scholarship program aimed at Ventura County, CA residents who want to pursue a degree in Education, Civics, or Political Science. The Fund awards a single $1,000 scholarship to a graduating senior from Channel Islands High School, or a resident of the city of Camarillo, CA who is graduates from any Ventura County high school. The prospective scholar needs to have a minimum GPA of 3.5.Charles K. & Ola I. Gose Scholarship Fund6. The CSDIW Native American ScholarshipThe Native American Scholarship is administered by the Continental Society Daughters of Indian Wars, and is aimed at enrolled members of Native American tribes pursuing degrees in Education or Social Service. To get the $5,000 annual scholarship, applicants need to be accepted or enrolled in an undergraduate program, maintain a 3.0 average, carry at least 10 quarter hours or 8 semester hours, and plan to work with the Native American population. The application submission deadline is June 15 every year. The scholarship is renewable.The CSDIW Native American Scholarship7. The Delta Gamma Foundation’s Florence Margaret Harvey Memorial ScholarshipThe Delta Gamma Foundation’s Florence Margaret Harvey Memorial Scholarship is a scholarship administered by the American Foundation for the Blind. The scholarship awards one legally blind undergraduate or graduate student in the field of Education or Rehabilitation of blind or visually impaired persons with a $1,000 grant. The application period starts on March 1 and ends on May 31.The Delta Gamma Foundation Florence Margaret Harvey Memorial Scholarship8. The Rudolph Dillman Memorial ScholarshipThe Rudolph Dillman Memorial Scholarship, administered by the American Foundation for the Blind, is a scholarship fund that awards 4 legally blind undergraduate or graduate students with $2,500 scholarships. To be eligible, the applicants need to provide proof of legal blindness, and have to be full-time studying a program in the field of education or rehabilitation of blind or visually impaired persons. The application period runs from March 1 through May 31.The Rudolph Dillman Memorial Scholarship9. Dr. Esther Wilkins ScholarshipDr. Esther Wilkins Scholarship, administered by the ADHA Institute for Oral Health, is a scholarship fund aimed at helping people who have already finished a portion of their dental hygiene education get the additional education they need for a career in dental hygiene education. The scholarship of $1,000 is awarded to a single student. To be eligible for the scholarship, the student must have already completed entry-level dental hygienist education, and must be working towards a degree that will allow him or her to work in the dental hygiene education field. Applicants must also demonstrate a cumulative dental hygiene grade point average of at least 3.5 on a 4.0 scale.Dr. Esther Wilkins Scholarship10. The Journalism Education Association’s Future Teacher ScholarshipsThe Journalism Education Association’s Future Teacher Scholarships awards up to five education majors a $1,000 scholarship. To be eligible for the scholarship, students need to be enrolled in an upper level or master’s degree education program that will result in the student being able to teach journalism at the secondary school level. The program is also open for current secondary-school journalism teachers who are in a degree program in order to improve their journalism-teaching skills. The application deadline for the scholarship is July 1.The Journalism Education Association Future Teacher Scholarships11. Christa McAuliffe Scholarship ProgramThe Christa McAuliffe Scholarship Program, created by the Tennessee General Assembly, is aimed at assisting a single recipient who plans to pursue a career in education in Tennessee by awarding a one-time scholarship of $500. To be eligible for the program, applicants need to be enrolled full-time in a teacher education program in an accredited Tennessee postsecondary institution, have already completed at least their first semester, have at least a 3.5 cumulative grade point average, and have an ACT or SAT score that meets or exceeds the national norm. The application deadline for the program is April 1.Christa McAuliffe Scholarship Program12. Harriet Irsay ScholarshipAdministered by the American Institute of Polish Culture Inc., the Harriet Irsay Scholarship is a program that helps students, preferably of Polish descent, attend college by giving them $1,000 scholarship. To be eligible for the scholarship, students must be enrolled in one of a number of undergraduate or graduate programs, such as Education and they have to demonstrate knowledge of Polish culture. The application deadline is August 9 each year.Harriet Irsay Scholarship13. Gates Millennium Scholars ProgramThe Gates Millennium Scholars Program, founded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, is one of the biggest scholarship programs in the US. To be eligible for the program, which awards funds to minorities for the cost of education, applicants must be African American, American Indian /Alaskan Native, Asians Pacific Islander American, or Hispanic American. Applicants must also have a minimum 3.3 GPA or have earned a GED, and meet the Federal Pell Grant eligibility criteria. The program awards scholarships to 1,000 students and the applications are received from August 1 through January 15.Gates Millennium Scholars Program14. John and Agnes McFarlane ScholarshipThe John and Agnes McFarlane Scholarship is a scholarship program administered by the Ventura County Community Foundation. The program awards up to 15 students with $2,500 scholarships if they are enrolled in community college, or $5,000 if they are enrolled in a 4-year college or university. The scholarship is available to residents of Ventura County who have graduated from a high school in the county and are enrolled or have been accepted into any college in the state of California. The prospective scholars also need have a minimum 3.25 GPA for graduating high school seniors, or a minimum 3.0 GPA for currently enrolled college students.John and Agnes McFarlane Scholarship15. Illinois PTA Lillian E. Glover Scholarship ProgramThe Lillian E. Glover Scholarship Program, administered by the Illinois Parent Teacher Association, is awarded annually to graduating seniors attending public high schools in Illinois. Applicants must have a grade point average of 3.0 or above and be enrolled in a college or university in an education related degree program. The scholarship amount is as high as $3,000, and is awarded to a small number of recipients. The application deadline is February 14.Illinois PTA Lillian E. Glover Scholarship Program16. Minority Teacher ScholarshipAdministered by the Indiana Commission for Higher Education, the Minority Teacher Scholarships aims to help Black and Hispanic students earn a degree that will allow them to become teachers in Indiana. The applicants needs to be a resident of Indiana, admitted to or already attending an eligible Indiana institution as a full-time student, agree in writing to apply for a teaching position in an accredited school in Indiana following certification as a teacher and, if hired, to teach for at least three years. The recipient must maintain a cumulative GPA of at least 2.0 out of 4.0 once awarded the scholarship in order to maintain it.Minority Teacher Scholarship17. Litherland/FTEE ScholarshipThe Foundation for Technology and Engineering Educators administers the Litherland/FTEE Scholarship. The $1,000 scholarship is given annually to one undergraduate student majoring in technology and engineering education teacher preparation. To be eligible for the scholarship, the student needs to be a member of the International Technology and Engineering Educators Association and a full-time undergraduate student with a GPA of at least 2.5 out of 4.0. The student cannot be a senior by application deadline, which is December 1.Litherland/FTEE Scholarship18. FTEE ScholarshipThe Foundation for Technology and Engineering Educators Scholarship is a scholarship program that awards a $1,000 scholarship to one undergraduate student majoring in technology and engineering education teacher preparation. Eligible students have to be members of Technology and Engineering Educators Association and full-time undergraduate students with a GPA of at least 2.5 out of 4.0. The students cannot be seniors by application deadline, which is on December 1.FTEE Scholarship19. Kansas Teacher Service ScholarshipThe Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship is administered by The Kansas Board of Regents, and it awards scholarships to both current teachers and students enrolled in a program leading to a license as a teacher in an identified discipline or underserved area. Students may be enrolled either part-time or full-time, and the average recipient GPA has been 3.5 so far. The scholarship goes up to $5,514, and the application deadline is May 1.Kansas Teacher Service Scholarship20. L. Gordon Bittle Memorial Scholarship for Student CTAThe L. Gordon Bittle Memorial Scholarship for Student CTA is administered by the California Teachers Association. The scholarship awards up to three students with up to $5,000. To be eligible for the scholarship, students need to be a current “active” member of Student CTA, be in an undergraduate, teacher credential or graduate program, and have a high grade point average. The application submission deadline is February 7.L. Gordon Bittle Memorial Scholarship for Student CTA21. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial ScholarshipThe Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Scholarship, administered by the California Teachers Association, is aimed at providing help to minorities pursuing careers as teachers. Applicants need to be either active members of CTA, dependent children of active, retired, or deceased members, or active members of Student CTA. Applicants need to be residents of California, a member of one of the following minority groups: African American/Black, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian/Pacific Islander, or Hispanic; and pursuing college degree, credential, or certification for a teaching-related career in public education in an accredited institution of higher education. The scholarship amount varies according to available funds, but has gone up to $6,000 in the past years.Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Scholarship22. Mary Morrow/Edna Richards ScholarshipThe Mary Morrow/Edna Richards Scholarship, administered by the North Carolina Association of Educators, is open to applicants who are North Carolina residents enrolled in a teacher-education program and are in their junior year of college at the time of application. They need to be willing to teach in the public schools of North Carolina for at least two years after graduation, and preference may be given to children of NCAE members and to members of the Student NCAE. The amount of the scholarship is $1,000, and the application deadline is January 30.Mary Morrow/Edna Richards Scholarship23. Christa McAuliffe Teacher Incentive ProgramAvailable to legal residents of Delaware, the Christa McAuliffe Teacher Incentive Program is aimed at providing financial help to students working towards a degree in education who are willing to work as teacher in critical teacher shortage areas of education in Delaware. To be eligibility, applicants must have a combined score of 1570 on the SAT for high school seniors, who also need to be in the upper half of their class, or a 2.75 cumulative GPA for undergraduate students in Delaware. The application deadline for the program is March 20.Christa McAuliffe Teacher Incentive Program24. Christopher K. Smith Memorial ScholarshipThe Christopher K. Smith Memorial Scholarship, administered by the Delaware State Education Association, awards a $1000 scholarship yearly – or $4,000 for a 4 year program – to outstanding graduates of Delaware high schools who are pursuing degrees that will lead to careers in education. The eligibility criteria for the scholarship includes SAT scores, class rank, awards and honors, and career plans. The application deadline for the scholarship program is March 14.Christopher K. Smith Memorial Scholarship25. Catching The Dream MEBSEC ProgramMEBSEC Program, administered by Catching The Dream Native American Scholarship Fund, is a scholarship program that awards Native American students scholarships between $500 and $5,000 in six priority fields of study – math, engineering, science, business, education, and computers . To be eligible for the program, students need to be at least ¼ Native American and enrolled in a US Tribe, and must either attend or plan to attend a college or university in the United States. The application deadlines are March 15 for summer school, April 15 for the fall semester, and September 15 for the spring semester.Catching The Dream MEBSEC Program26. Catching The Dream’s Native American Leadership Education ProgramThe Native American Leadership Education Program, administered by Catching The Dream Native American Scholarship Fund, is a scholarship program aimed at Native American students who currently work as paraprofessionals in Indian schools, and who would like to complete their degree in education, counseling or school administration. To be eligible for the program, students need be at least ¼ Native American, enrolled in a US Tribe, and must either be attending or enrolled in a college or university in the United States. The application deadlines are March 15 for summer school, April 15 for the fall semester, and September 15 for the spring semester.Catching The Dream Native American Leadership Education Program27. Ford Motor Company’s Tribal Scholars ProgramThe Ford Motor Company Tribal Scholars Program, administered by the American Indian College Fund, offers education funding to enrolled members of Native American tribes who plan to study math, science, engineering, business, teacher training, or environmental science at a tribal college or university. The applicants need to be enrolled members who have at least a 3.0 GPA.Ford Motor Company Tribal Scholars Program28. Minority Teachers of Illinois ScholarshipThe Minority Teachers of Illinois Scholarship, administered by the Illinois Student Assistance Commission, is a scholarship program that awards up to $5,000 to members of minorities who are legal residents of Illinois and are enrolled or accepted into a program that will result in a teaching accreditation. To be eligible, applicants have to be of African American/Black, Hispanic American, Asian American or Native American descent, comply with federal Selective Service registration requirements, study at a college or university in Illinois, and maintain a cumulative GPA of 2.5 out of 4.0. The application deadline for the program is March 1.Minority Teachers of Illinois Scholarship29. AFCEA Educational Foundation STEM ScholarshipsThe Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association Educational Foundation Stem Scholarships award at least 50 students who are working towards a degree or license that will allow them to teach science, technology, engineering or math at a US middle or secondary school. To receive the $5000 scholarship, applicants need to have a minimum overall GPA of 3.0 and be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program at an accredited college or university . Applicants working towards their license must have received at least a bachelor’s degree in a STEM major. The application deadline is April 1.AFCEA Educational Foundation STEM Scholarships30. The Environmental Education Scholarship ProgramThe Environmental Education Scholarship Program, administered by Legacy, Inc. Partners in Environmental Education, is a scholarship program that awards up to $1,500 to undergraduate applicants and up to $2,000 to graduate and doctoral applicants. To be eligible, an applicant must be: a resident of Alabama, enrolled in a university in Alabama, and planning to pursue a career related to the environment, such as environmental education. The application deadline for the program is May 3.The Environmental Education Scholarship Program31. The Edward & Lorraine O’Neill Scholarship FundThe Edward & Lorraine O’Neill Scholarship Fund, administered by The Arc of Cape Cod, is a scholarship program that awards one high school graduate or a college student who is a resident of Barnstable County, MA, and who plans to work with children or adults with developmental disabilities as a teacher, therapist, or in a related profession. The applicants are selected based on their financial needs, academic achievements, volunteer experience and activities. The application deadline is April 16.The Edward & Lorraine O’Neill Scholarship Fund32. Paul R. Wolf Memorial ScholarshipAdministered by the American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing, the Paul R. Wolf Memorial Scholarship awards one $3,500 scholarship to a student member of ASPRS who intends to pursue a career in education related to surveying, mapping and photogrammetry. To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants need to be members of ASPRS and enrolled in a graduate program that will allow them to pursue a career in teaching surveying, mapping and photogrammetry.Paul R. Wolf Memorial Scholarship33. T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® MINNESOTAT.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® MINNESOTA is a scholarship program for early childhood and school age care professionals who want to improve their education. Applicants need to already be working as child-care professionals or early childhood educators, and must be accepted into a Childhood Development or Early Childhood Education degree program at an accredited two or four year college in Minnesota. Applicants are required to continue working at least 15 hours per week with children during their education, and be willing to continue working at least one year after they have received their degree. The application deadlines are April 1, July 1 and November 1 for the summer semester, fall semester and spring semester, respectively.T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® MINNESOTA34. Barbara Lotze Scholarships for Future TeachersThe Barbara Lotze Scholarships for Future Teachers is a scholarship program administered by the American Association for Physics Teachers. The $2,000 yearly scholarship can be awarded to an individual for up to four years of education. To be eligible, applicants need to be either undergraduate students enrolled in an accredited two year college or a four year college or university, or a high school senior accepted in such an institution. All applicants must be pursuing a career in teaching physics on the high school level. The application deadline for the program is December 1.Barbara Lotze Scholarships for Future Teachers35. Dr. Marc Hull Special Education Leadership ScholarshipThe Dr. Marc Hull Special Education Leadership Scholarship, administered by the Vermont Student Assistance Corp., is a scholarship program available to students who are residents of Vermont. The program awards ten students with scholarship up to $1,750. To be eligible for the program, students need to be enrolled in an accredited grad school approved for federal Title IV funding, and must be studying towards a certificate or license in special education administration. Applicants also need to have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 at least. The application deadline for the scholarship program is March 8.Dr. Marc Hull Special Education Leadership Scholarship36. Jack Kinnaman Memorial ScholarshipAdministered by the National Education Association, the NEA- Retired Jack Kinnaman Memorial Scholarship awards a $2,000 scholarship to a student who is an active member of the National Education Association Student Program. To be eligible, the student also needs to be enrolled in a college program that will result in a degree in teaching. The application deadline is April 15.Jack Kinnaman Memorial Scholarship37. Early Childhood Educators Scholarship ProgramThe Early Childhood Educators Scholarship Program is administered by the Office of Student Financial Assistance of the Massachusetts Department of Higher Education. The program offers per-credit scholarships, with different rates for different types of education institutions. A public university student could receive $500 per credit, maximum of $4,500 per semester. A private college or university student could receive the same amount of money. A state college student could receive $400 per credit, maximum of $3,600 per semester. A community college student could receive $250 per credit, maximum of $2,250 per semester. To be eligible for the scholarship, the student needs to be employed at least for a year before applying as an early childhood educator or care provider, continue child care work during the program, and work in the childcare field after graduation.Early Childhood Educators Scholarship Program38. Prospective 7-12 Secondary Teacher Course Work ScholarshipsAdministered by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics, and supported by the Texas Instruments Demana-Waits Fund, Prospective 7-12 Secondary Teacher Course Work Scholarships is a scholarship programs aimed at future math teachers. The program awards one student with a scholarship of up to $10,000. To be eligible, applicants need to be currently completing their sophomore year of college, and scheduling for full-time study at a four or five-year college or university. Applicants need to be studying toward a diploma that will allow them to become certified teachers of secondary school math. The application deadline for the scholarship program is May 2.Prospective 7-12 Secondary Teacher Course Work Scholarships39. Fulgham-Fulghum Family ScholarshipThe Fulgham-Fulghum Family Scholarship administered by the Fulgham-Fulghum National Family Foundation, Inc., awards a $1,000 scholarship annually to a high school senior admitted to a college or university. The scholarship is awarded on a competitive basis, with preference given to seniors admitted to programs that lead to a career in the teaching profession. Applicants are selected based on their academic achievement and volunteer work and achievements outside the school. The application deadline for the scholarship program is April 15.Fulgham-Fulghum Family Scholarship40. TEACH GrantThe Teacher Education Assistance for College and Higher Education Grant is a federal grant program aimed at helping students working towards teaching and education degrees. The grant awards students with up to $4,000 per year, on the condition they agree to work in a high-need field or at an elementary school, secondary school, or educational service agency that serves students from low-income families for at least four complete academic years within eight years after completing their course of study. To be eligible, students need to be enrolled in a TEACH Grant eligible program, have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.25 or score above the 75th percentile on one or more portions of a college admissions test, receive TEACH counseling and agree to sign a TEACH Grant Agreement to Serve.TEACH Grant41. Shon Shadrick Memorial ScholarshipAdministered by Lindsey’s Family Restaurant, the Shon Shadrick Memorial Scholarship is a scholarship awarded to a student pursuing a degree in Special Education. To be eligible for the $5,000 scholarship, the applicant must have an overall GPA of at least 2.5, and be enrolled or accepted into a college program that leads to a degree in Special Education. The application deadline is May 9.Shon Shadrick Memorial Scholarship42. The Renshaw FellowshipThe Renshaw Fellowship is a fellowship program administered by the Intercollegiate Studies Institute. The fellowship awards its fellows $12,000 grants. To be eligible for the fellowship, applicants need to be members of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute, and current doctoral students or applicants to doctoral programs in education. The application deadline for the fellowship program is January 16.The Renshaw Fellowship43. Underwood-Smith Teacher Scholarship ProgramThe Underwood-Smith Teacher Scholarship Program, administered by the College Foundation of West Virginia, is a student financial aid program for students who want to pursue careers in pre-school, elementary, middle or secondary school level teaching. Applicants need to be West Virginia residents enrolled or accepted into an undergraduate or graduate program at an accredited education institution in West Virginia. The program needs to lead to a degree that will allow the student to pursue a career in teaching. The application period for the up to $5,000 scholarship is March 1.Underwood-Smith Teacher Scholarship Program44. Tobin Sorenson Physical Education ScholarshipAdministered by Pi Lambda Theta, the Tobin Sorenson Physical Education Scholarship awards $1,000 tuition payment scholarships to students pursuing degrees that will lead to careers in physical education, adapted physical education, coaching, recreational therapy, dance therapy or similar professions. The scholarship is available to both members and non-members who are sophomores or higher at regionally accredited institutions, have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5, are involved in extracurricular sports or physical education activities, and plan to teach at a K-12 level. The application deadline for the scholarship is April 1.Tobin Sorenson Physical Education Scholarship45. Student Teacher ScholarshipThe Student Teacher Scholarship, administered by the Hawaii Education Association, is a scholarship program available to HEA members and children or grandchildren of a HEA member. The program awards two $3,000 scholarships to student teachers enrolled in full-time undergraduate or post-baccalaureate programs in an accredited or state-approved institution. The applicants will be selected based on their ability, financial need, personal statement and recommendations. The application deadline for the scholarship program is April 1.Student Teacher Scholarship46. The Weaver FellowshipAdministered by the Intercollegiate Studies Institute, the Weaver Fellowship is available to graduate students or applicants to graduate schools who intend to pursue a career in teaching at the college level. To become a fellow and receive a $5,000 grant and complete tuition payment in the US or abroad, the applicant needs to be a US citizen and member of the Intercollegiate Studies Institute enrolled in a graduate program with the intention of becoming a college professor. The application deadline for the fellowship program is January 16.The Weaver Fellowship47. The Ruby J. Darensbourg-Cook Memorial Scholarship FundThe Ruby J. Darensbourg-Cook Memorial Scholarship Fund is a scholarship program administered by the Baton Rouge Area Foundation that rewards its scholars with a $500 scholarship per semester, for up to eight semesters. To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants need to be high school seniors enrolling in an accredited Louisiana college or university with the intention to major in Education, although preference will be given to those who wish to major in Elementary Education or Early Childhood Education. In order to maintain the scholarship, applicants need to have a GPA of at least 2.5 per semester. The application deadline for the scholarship program is April 30.The Ruby J. Darensbourg-Cook Memorial Scholarship Fund48. Frank Kazmierczak Memorial Migrant ScholarshipThe Frank Kazmierczak Memorial Migrant Scholarship, administered by the Geneseo Migrant Center, is a scholarship program that awards a $1,000 post-secondary scholarship assistance to one student. To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants need to be either migrant workers or children of migrant workers, with the goal of pursuing education that will allow them to work as teachers. The applications are selected based on financial need and scholastic achievement. The application deadline for the scholarship program is February 1.Frank Kazmierczak Memorial Migrant Scholarship49. Roothbert Fund ScholarshipsThe Roothbert Fund Scholarships is a scholarship program administered by Roothbert Fund, Inc. The program selects around 20 new scholars each year and grants them scholarships ranging from $2,000 to $3,000. To be eligible, applicants need to be, or plan to become, residents of Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Delaware, Maryland, District of Columbia, Virginia, West Virginia, or North Carolina. Although the scholarships are available to students majoring in a variety of subjects, preference is given to those who are interested in pursuing a career in Education.Roothbert Fund Scholarships50. Joseph T. Weingold ScholarshipAdministered by NYSARC, the Joseph T. Weingold Scholarship is a scholarship program which awards students enrolled full-time in an Education degree program leading to Special Education certification. The $3,000 scholarship is awarded to two students in four $750 installments. To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants need to be enrolled in a degree program that leads to Special Education certification in a college or university in New York State. The application deadline for the scholarship program is December 5.Joseph T. Weingold ScholarshipFurther Reading20 Great Doctoral Grants for Teachers and Doctoral Grants for Education

Q. Which engineering school is better, University of Maryland's A. James Clark School, or Rice University's George R. Brown School?I have read and hear conflicting opinions as the which undergraduate program is better. More specifically, how do the schools compare in Mechanical Engineering?A2A: I am not an engineer and this topic should be addressed by mechanical engineers on Quora. I will take a stab at it in the meantime. It has been awhile since I was an undergraduate at Rice. I try to be involved by being an alumnus interviewer.There are so many different rankings for engineering programs that have no consistency. Many mostly deal with graduate engineering schools. Among those, Rice’s small size is a disadvantage. Rice chooses to do certain things very well. Its commitment to undergraduate education makes the George R. Brown School a good program. Class size is smaller, easier to interact with professors and plenty of opportunities to participate in research.Students are of high caliber, hard working and hard playing. There is more camaraderie than competition. Almost everyone lives on campus and is active in intramural sports/clubs, organizations. Students are assigned to colleges/dorms with affiliation lasting through to graduation. There is close collaboration in doing difficult homework, exam preparation. In addition to the College Master, whose family lives in the building/or attached housing, many faculty members are assigned to the colleges and take their lunch meals there. In upper level classes, there may just be 2–3 students. Certain classes we get to choose when to meet, bring the donuts and the professors the coffees, even in the evenings. Rice is perennially ranked #1 in student satisfaction/quality of life. Rice’s location in Houston (4th largest city in the US) is advantageous, de facto the Energy capital of the world. (There are more than 70 foreign consulates in Houston). Close interaction with NASA LBJ Space Center is a plus. Plenty of companies recruit on campus. There is a strong alumni network with available mentoring.Rice’s other strength is the preponderance of double/triple majors and national reputation. This should help in applying for graduate schools. Non-major electives are strong across the board. The life sciences and biomedical engineering departments are well regarded, often there are collaboration between Rice and other institutions in the adjacent world’s largest Texas Medical Center (Baylor College of Medicine, UT Houston McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Dental Branch, #1 ranking MD Anderson Cancer Center, and Texas Heart Institute to name a few). It is tougher to get into Rice then to graduate from Rice.What I have included here a listing of Fortune 500 companies headquartered in Houston, valuable for internship and employment.Selectivity of Rice.Princeton ranking of colleges. USN ranking of Rice and University of Maryland. Links to both mechanical engineering departments.Next is the most helpful list - 50 highest ranking undergraduate engineering schools. Maryland edges Rice by two places. I have attached the whole list further down.Then there is a comparison by Smart Class head to head of the two schools, followed by info of each. The costs may look disproportionate. But Rice does offer a lot of financial aid.Finally, there is a USN top 10 ranking of Undergraduate Mechanical Engineering Programs. Unfortunately, neither school made the list.I would consider Rice over Maryland if accepted and offered adequate financial aid. Undergraduates at Rice are not short changed. Rice students do not have to declare a major until the end of sophomore year, and it is easy to change or add major. With the option of taking 4 classes Pass/Fail, you can sample the curriculum without damaging your GPA. With a strong Honor Code, some courses offer take home exams (open or closed book) to not waste class time. There are also self-paced courses. For some courses, you schedule your final in the two weeks before the end of the semester so that you can best strategize exam preparation. If you change your major, Rice’s other departments are world class. The upstart Jones School of Business has steadily climbed in ranking. Baker Center for Public Policy has become a major think tank. The college experience will be pleasant. And Houston is a great town to explore. Students can ride the mass transit system for free. This campus is among the most beautiful, and is located in an upscale part of town. The Rice Village is a nearby shopping center with high end and low end shops. Next to Rice University is the huge Texas Medical Center, as well as the Houston Museum District. Galveston beach is only 45 minutes away.For graduate school, a larger department maybe more alluring. UT Austin/ Texas A&M and U Houston are not too far away. But many graduates go farther afield to Stanford, MIT, Cal Tech etc.University of Maryland does look like a very good school. For me, it is just too big and there is less clout.Again, I am not an engineer and I know very little about the University of Maryland.All the Best!Texas Medical CenterRice ranked No. 1 for happiest students and lots of race/class interactionB.J. ALMOND AUGUST 29, 2016POSTED IN: FEATURED STORIESThe happiest students in the country are at Rice University, according to the Princeton Review’s 2017 edition of “The Best 381 Colleges.” The new college guide ranks Rice No. 1 for happiest students and for lots of race/class interaction. Rice is also No. 9 for best quality of life.The rankings are based on surveys of 143,000 students at 381 top colleges. Students responded to 84 questions about academics, administration, the student body and themselves. The guide published the top 20 schools in 60 categories. In addition to three top-10 rankings, Rice is No. 20 for best health services, and a photo of the campus appears on the cover of the publication.“We’re especially gratified by our two No. 1 rankings in the Princeton Review for student happiness and interaction among students of different racial, ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds, as well as our top-10 ranking for overall student quality of life,” Rice President David Lebron said. “These reflect two of our most important commitments: the general welfare and positive engagement of our students, and building a diverse and inclusive community. We take this expression of satisfaction from our students not as a laurel to rest upon, but an encouragement to constantly aspire to do even better.”Fifty best dining experienceThe guide’s profile of Rice notes that the crossover between personal and academic life made possible by the residential college system “helps make life at Rice well-balanced.” One student said, “The environment is very inclusive,” and another said, “There is no racial majority here on campus, and I’ve met students of varied political affiliations, religions, socio-economic status and sexual orientations.” The guide reports that Rice students are “generous with their praise for professors.” Although students have a wide range of activities and interests, “what they all have in common is their satisfaction with life at Rice,” the Princeton Review wrote.For more information on the rankings, visit princetonreview.com/college-rankings/best-colleges.- See more at: Rice ranked No. 1 for happiest students and lots of race/class interactionPrinceton tops list of 2017 U.S. News Best Colleges RankingsRice University Mechanical EngineeringUniversity of Maryland Mechanical Engineering50 Best Bachelors in Engineering Degrees for 2017#21RICE UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 83.17ANNUAL TUITION: $43,918PROGRAM WEBSITELocated in Houston, the nation’s fourth largest city, Rice is a comprehensive research university fostering diversity and an intellectual environment that produces the next generation of leaders and advances tomorrow’s thinking. The nine departments of the School of Engineering offer programs toward seven Bachelor of Science and nine Bachelor of Arts degrees and several engineering-related minors.More than sixty percent of Rice undergraduate engineers have a meaningful research experience before graduation. They also own all the intellectual property they create while students at Rice. The Rice Center for Engineering Leadership helps students become inspiring leaders, exceptional team members, effective communicators and bold entrepreneurs. The Rice Center for Career Development not only assists students in finding jobs after graduation, they also help undergraduates secure summer-long internships that are a vital part of the Rice experience.One of the unique features of Rice is its residential colleges. Before matriculating, undergraduates become a member of one of eleven residential colleges, which have their own dining halls, public rooms, and dorms on campus; most of the first-year students and about 75 percent of all undergraduates reside at their associated colleges. Because each student is randomly assigned to one of the colleges, and maintains membership in the same college throughout the undergraduate years, the colleges are enriched by the diversity of their students’ backgrounds, academic interests and experiences, talents, and goals.19UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND—COLLEGE PARKCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 84.49ANNUAL TUITION: $32,045PROGRAM WEBSITEThe A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland is comprised of seven departments and offers nine undergraduate degrees. A common core curriculum outlines the first year for most students no matter their major. The challenging set of courses emphasizes teamwork. Students also have numerous opportunities for research and design projects. The degree programs put special emphasis on technology entrepreneurship and offer many international and collaborative possibilities.The A. James Clark School of Engineering also provides undergraduate students outstanding resources for their academic pursuits—innovative research opportunities, world-renowned faculty and state-of-the-art facilities. Students are also a part of the University of Maryland community, which offers its own array of resources and opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun on and around its idyllic campus in College Park, MD. As a Clark School Engineer, students will have the opportunity to build a foundation of skills and knowledge that will benefit the world in a very special and unique way, while themselves having a special and unique experience as a Terrapin.The 25 Healthiest Colleges in the U.S., 201214. Rice UniversityStudents at Rice definitely won't go hungry. There are dining halls in every residential college that serve three meals per day, and students' meal plans are unlimited. And according to The Princeton Review, Rice University has the happiest students in the U.S.A. This may be thanks to its comprehensive wellbeing resource site or the many fitness events organized by the recreation department. Photo Courtesy of Rice UniversityHoustonNASA LBJ Space Center (land donated by Rice University)Rice Tree Campus USARice Residential CollegeMaryland Color GuardTop 50 colleges with the hardest-working studentsIt’s no secret that college students work hard. But where do students work the hardest?School analytics site Niche recently compiled a list of schools with the hardest-working students. The top 50 colleges were chosen from 1,311 schools based on their Niche Academics Grade, which involves the school’s acceptance and graduation rates, and student survey responses about workload and study habits, according to Niche.Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyMassachusetts Institute of Technology tops the list at No. 1. Check out the rest to see if your school made the cut!50. University of Virginia49. Emory University48. Colgate University47. University of Michigan at Ann Arbor46. University of California at Los Angeles45. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute44. Rhode Island School of Design43. Colorado CollegeThomas Jefferson University (Photo: Maarten Danial/Flickr)42. Thomas Jefferson University41. Pomona College40. Amherst College39. United States Naval Academy38. Claremont McKenna College37. Georgetown University36. Vassar College35. Colorado School of Mines34. Case Western Reserve University33. Wellesley CollegeDuke students walk by Duke Chapel on the campus of Duke University in Durham, N.C. (Photo: Jim R. Bounds/Bloomberg)32. Duke University31. Dartmouth College30. Wake Forest University29. University of Pennsylvania28. Oberlin College27. Northwestern University26. Grinnell College25. Harvard University24. Williams College23. Swarthmore College22. United States Military Academy at West Point21. Brown University20. Georgia Institute of Technology19. University of California at Berkeley18. Cornell University17. Harvey Mudd College16. Carleton College15. University of Notre Dame13. (TIE) Stanford University13. (TIE) Middlebury College12. Washington University in St. LouisJohns Hopkins (Photo: AP/Patrick Semansky)11. Johns Hopkins University10. College of William & Mary9. Vanderbilt University8. Columbia University7. Bowdoin College6. Princeton University5. Yale University4. Carnegie Mellon University3. Rice University2. University of Chicago1. Massachusetts Institute of TechnologyBrooke Metz is a student at Wake Forest University and a USA TODAY College web producer.Residential CollegeA regular in the college world seriesResidential College (Dorm)Jim Henson Maryland alumnusLast Updated: January 1, 2017The United States’ global competitiveness has become a national priority, and with it, efforts to increase the number of U.S. students seeking degrees in engineering and computer science. The need is so important that Congress passed the America COMPETES (Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science) Act, authorizing $43.3 billion in federal spending in science, engineering, mathematics and technology research and education programs.Engineers use mathematics, the physical, chemical, and biological sciences, as well as business and communications skills to solve important, real-world problems in society. Engineers and scientists must be critical thinkers, and entrepreneurs and innovators who understand the social and business implications of their work. They need to be able to communicate their ideas coherently, and work effectively in teams. Above all, they must be willing and able to provide leadership in solving society’s big problems.Our world is powered by engineers. Engineers create the newest products, services, and ideas to improve human health, safety, and happiness. Engineers provide solutions to opportunities and challenges that affect everyone. From the environment, energy, new product design, to national security, engineers have an active role in virtually every area of human life.Engineering salaries vary depending on the level of education, focus of career, and the region of the world, but year after year, engineering tops the list of majors with the highest average starting salary. It is well worth the time and effort to become an engineer. The most current numbers on starting median salaries for engineers is $55,000 to $70,000, with the potential to earn two to three times these amounts with experience, success, and further education.RELATED ENGINEERING RANKINGSEngineering involves the creative application of tools from math and science to solve problems that confront humanity today. While these problems present technological challenges, each exists within a cultural, economic, historical, and ethical context, and thus an undergraduate education in engineering must provide students with a broad academic foundation.Twenty-first century engineering is at the epicenter of an explosion in new knowledge. Revolutionary discoveries in science, engineering, medicine, mathematics, and the social sciences have not only changed the way we interact with the world around us, but have also blurred the boundaries between academic disciplines. Engineering is the catalyst for bringing disciplines together and pushing forward the amazing advances made possible by those collaborations. The breadth of an engineer’s education as well as the interdisciplinary nature of engineering disciplines has led some to call an engineering education the new liberal arts.The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) accredits college engineering programs nationwide using criteria and standards developed and accepted by U.S. engineering communities. There are several disciplines within engineering—different starting points for solving engineering problems. More than twenty-five major specialties are recognized in the fields of engineering and engineering technology. Some of the more popular areas of study include Aerospace, Biomedical, Chemical, Civil, Computer, Electrical, Environmental, Industrial, Mechanical, and Systems.Whether you’re an undergraduate who likes the idea of research or who is thinking about graduate school, collaborating on projects will prepare you for a productive future in research, your workplace, and your community. The experience will position you to meet the needs of society and provide technical leadership, no matter where your path leads. Because research is such an integral part of engineering, and because schools with graduate programs tend to have more research center, labs, and institutes, we’ve limited our top fifty list to those schools with graduate programs.What Are the Best Engineering Degree Programs?To help prospective engineering student explore programs and schools, we have compiled the following list of the top fifty undergraduate engineering programs. Because we know that a degree is an investment of sorts, we have factored into our rankings the cost of getting an engineering degree and the salary prospects for graduates of the various schools. By combining data points from U.S. News and World Report, http://Payscale.org, the Bureau of Labor Statistics, and information provided by schools, we’ve created a list of fifty schools that will get an aspiring engineering off to a successful start.BEST BACHELORS IN ENGINEERING PROGRAMS1UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS—URBANA-CHAMPAIGNCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 100.00ANNUAL TUITION: $31,320PROGRAM WEBSITEAt the University of Illinois’s main campus in Urbana, undergraduates can choose from among fifteen top-ranked engineering majors in 12 of the university’s engineering departments. In addition to the variety of engineering programs, the university offers an Engineering First-Year Experience, an interdisciplinary program designed to enhance the learning experience of every first-year student in Engineering at Illinois. The goal of this experience is to support the aspirations of beginning engineering students by laying a solid foundation for their collegiate career.With the breadth and depth of knowledge among the university’s engineering research faculty, students can find experts in several fields who are willing to provide them with research opportunities. Over fifty percent of undergraduates do research in the 60+ laboratories, research centers, and institutes at the university. The research experience builds valuable skills while allowing students to do world-changing things even before graduation.The more than seventy engineering societies and a vibrant university community provide engineering students ample opportunities to grow professionally and socially. The exceptional career services, the extensive Illini network, and the top-ranked education give graduates of engineering programs at the University of Illinois high regard in the professional and graduate spheres.2PURDUE UNIVERSITY—WEST LAFAYETTECOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 98.87ANNUAL TUITION: $28,804PROGRAM WEBSITEPurdue, Indiana’s land grant university, offers sixteen different undergraduate engineering majors, covering areas such as Construction Engineering, Industrial Engineering, and Biological Engineering. Students who know they will want to pursue a graduate degree may also find the BS/MS or BS/MBA options intriguing.At Purdue’s main campus in West Lafayette, engineering undergraduates have available to them some of the nation’s leading experts who together envision a more inclusive, socially connected, and scholarly engineering education that puts students first. To that end, Purdue is proud of its many programs, including Women in Engineering, Engineering Leadership, and Global Engineering.The entry point for all engineering students at Purdue is its First-Year Engineering Program. In this program students ease into college life, get grounded in the fundamentals, and discover their passion for engineering. Beginning students get academic and personal support from professional academic advisors, faculty, and student advisors. They also enroll in a common first-year curriculum that helps them further distinguish the engineering disciplines, identify which engineering major is right for them, and learn where they might work if they pursue a degree in an engineering field.3GEORGIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 98.46ANNUAL TUITION: $32,404PROGRAM WEBSITEGeorgia Tech is home to a prestigious College of Engineering with eight schools that offer eleven undergraduate engineering majors. All of Georgia Tech’s engineering undergraduate programs well prepare students for careers or graduate studies by providing a solid foundation in engineering principles. Students gain both knowledge and practical experience by collaborating across disciplines and apply their skills to real-world problems. All of the college’s undergraduate programs have consistently ranked in the top six of their respective areas in U.S. News & World Report’s annual rankings.In addition to the experience of college life on Georgia Tech’s vibrant campus in Atlanta, engineering students can find social, academic, and professional enrichment through any of the dozen engineering clubs and organizations. The College of Engineering also boasts the nation’s largest and most diverse engineering college, awarding more engineering degrees to women and underrepresented minority students than any other school in the country.4UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA—TWIN CITIESCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 96.84ANNUAL TUITION: $22,210PROGRAM WEBSITEThe University of Minnesota’s College of Science and Engineering offers students a rigorous, world-class education tailored to their interests and goals. Undergraduates in the college are able to choose from a wide range of programs and learn from some of the world’s leading experts in their fields. In the college’s twelve departments there are eighteen majors, twelve of which are in various engineering disciplines.Researchers in the college are on the cutting edge of finding ways to address some of the world’s most pressing problems. The partnership the college has with the school of medicine and with companies regionally and globally gives students unparalleled opportunities to match their skills with industry needs.On one of the nation’s most beautiful campuses in Minneapolis, the university provides its students a well-rounded college experience. There are over 1000 student groups at the university and 75 in the College of Science and Engineering. The First-Year Experience course connects freshmen to learning, research, and career opportunities to help them succeed. The course also includes fun, project-based work in small teams.5TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY—COLLEGE STATIONCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 95.59ANNUAL TUITION: $28,768PROGRAM WEBSITEEngineering has been a part of Texas A&M University since its founding in 1876. The college’s mission is to cultivate engineers who are well founded in engineering fundamentals, instilled with the highest standards of professional and ethical behavior, and prepared to meet the complex technical challenges of society.The College of Engineering is now the largest college at the university and offers nearly twenty undergraduate majors in its fourteen departments. It is also one of the largest engineering schools in the country, ranking second in undergraduate enrollment. The forty student organizations within the college coupled with the lively college atmosphere on one of the state of Texas’s largest universities enhances the college experience for engineering undergraduates.The quality of research activities at Texas A&M is highlighted by the direct impact of research on technology. In addition the college boasts a high volume of peer reviewed research funding from highly competitive sources and a high volume of publications in influential refereed journals. These things along with with the number of patents and the volume of widely used textbooks help consistently put the engineering programs in numerous national rankings.6UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA—BERKELEYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 95.14ANNUAL TUITION: $40,191PROGRAM WEBSITEBerkeley Engineering at the University of California is regularly rated one of the top schools of engineering in the world. Its emphasis on creativity and imagination, together with its commitment to work toward ways of changing society, make Berkeley Engineering a great place for students to pursue goals for themselves and the world. The spirit of collaboration and entrepreneurship marks the whole undergraduate experience for students of engineering.With over 3000 undergraduate students pursuing one of the school’s eleven majors and residing on the vibrant campus in Berkeley, the School of Engineering has ample opportunity for social, professional, and collegial interactions. And with over fifty centers and institutes of research, location near the tech-forward Silicon Valley, and key relationships with industry partners, the school has a strong stature among leading intellectuals. Undergraduates can find ways to participate in the school’s award-winning research by way of several fellowship and apprenticeship programs.7UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS—AUSTINCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 93.00ANNUAL TUITION: $34,676PROGRAM WEBSITEThe flagship campus of the University of Texas system boasts one of the country’s premier engineering schools in its Cockrell School of Engineering. Undergraduates at Cockrell not only learn from some of the world’s leading experts, but they also learn alongside these leaders. Participation in innovative, hands-on projects is a hallmark of the undergraduate experience.In addition to being a part of a world-class instructional environment, engineering students at Cockrell have access to eighty engineering-specific student groups, First-Year Interest Groups, and the Engineering Career Assistance Center. These resources provide students both social and professional enrichment to help them grow and flourish as engineers. Not only that, but students at the University of Texas at Austin live in one of the country’s most attractive cities. Austin is home to an ever-increasing number of thriving startup companies and continues to be one of the fastest-growing, most innovative cities in the country.8VIRGINIA TECHCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 92.88ANNUAL TUITION: $29,371PROGRAM WEBSITEAll first-year engineering students at Virginia Tech begin their undergraduate life in the Department of Engineering Education. After completing specific core course requirements, students can declare for one of the fourteen engineering majors in the College of Engineering at the university. These early shared courses give all of Virginia Tech’s engineering undergraduates an understanding of the engineering profession, including the skills, capacity for problem solving, and abilities for graphic and design processes needed to address current global issues. The renowned faculty apply research to teaching practices and practice research-based innovations in the classroom to provide the tools, skills, and knowledge necessary for students to become successful engineers and learners.Located in Blacksburg nestled on a plateau between the Blue Ridge and Alleghany mountains in southwest Virginia, Virginia Tech is a special place. The idyllic surroundings enhance an already lively and exciting campus life. For engineering undergraduates, the possibilities for social, academic, and professional relationships are numerous. Along with a wide variety of labs and creative workspaces, the College of Engineering’s Ware Lab is a facility dedicated solely to undergraduate student design projects, providing a unique learning environment for engineering students from various majors.9UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN—MADISONCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 91.18ANNUAL TUITION: $32,738PROGRAM WEBSITEThe flagship campus of the University of Wisconsin system is located in the state’s capital city of Madison. With over 40,000 students from 50 states and over 120 countries, the Badgers are diverse, active, and energetic. Considered one of the best public universities in the nation, the University of Wisconsin is high on the list for many prospective students. Add in a top-rated College of Engineering and it is no surprise that Wisconsin is a popular school for future engineers.The world-class faculty and the outstanding curriculum at the College of Engineering provide undergraduates the technological tools, resources, and knowledge that will help them develop solutions to problems in fields ranging from medicine to energy to manufacturing. Not only do students benefit from classroom and lab experiences, but they can also enrich their social life by taking advantage of opportunities such as international study, field research, internships, laboratory experience, entrepreneurial opportunities, and more. Additionally, the opportunities to work directly with faculty members and participate in the over fifty registered engineering organizations enhance the educational experience of engineering undergraduates.10PENNSYLVANIA STATE UNIVERSITY—UNIVERSITY PARKCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 88.61ANNUAL TUITION: $32,382PROGRAM WEBSITEThe Penn State University system is a well-respected network of public research universities. At its main campus in University Park, the College of Engineering offers one of the most vibrant educational programs in the country. It has breadth, depth, technical diversity, and innovative research that directly impacts the quality of life of global citizens. It is comprised of a responsive community of intellectuals that is focused on serving the technical profession and society. And it is located on one of the most extraordinary college campuses in the world. The Nittany Lion spirit is strong and diverse.The College of Engineering embraces multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary education and research in its twelve departments and schools. With over 30 research centers and laboratories, Penn State’s engineering programs are some of the nation’s leading academies of learning, discovery, and application. The College of Engineering offers fourteen majors to its over 7000 students, while the College of Earth and Mineral Sciences offers five further engineering majors focused on the environment and energy.11UNIVERSITY OF WASHINGTONCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 88.20ANNUAL TUITION: $34,791PROGRAM WEBSITESeattle and the Puget Sound region are a hub of creativity and innovation in aerospace, biotechnology, global health, clean technology, and information and communications technology. The College of Engineering at the University of Washington is an active and leading institution in these vital fields. It is an engine of economic growth, ranked third in the nation for the number of startups launched each year.The university is the top-ranked public university for federal research and training funding and the ten engineering departments are consistently rated some of the highest in the country in their respective fields. Because of the university’s influence in the economy, technology, and research, undergraduate engineering students at the University of Washington are afforded an unmatched educational experience. They have opportunities to work on interesting projects with global impact, tackle real-world problems through design projects, and much more as they open doors to an extraordinary future.The university has a wide variety of programs to support engineering students. First- and second-year undergraduates can live in the Engineering Community, a residence hall that extends learning beyond the classroom. The Engineering Academic Center provides support, tutoring, workshops, and study groups.12IOWA STATE UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 87.83ANNUAL TUITION: $21,483PROGRAM WEBSITEIowa State University’s College of Engineering offers a dozen different engineering majors as well as five minors for undergraduate students in its eight departments. Engineering students at Iowa State get to work with professors whose research shapes the future, participate in research labs with the latest technology on revolutionizing projects, and get hands-on experience by collaborating with students from over one hundred countries.ISU engineering students can also enhance their educational experience by participating in one of the college’s top-rated learning communities. Every engineering major has a learning community that takes a large campus and makes it small. Students can also join more than sixty engineering student organizations or participate in one of the College of Engineering’s more than thirty study abroad programs. The possibilities are numerous and the experiences are priceless. The excellent and well-rounded engineering programs at ISU lead to over 95% of graduates landing jobs within six months of graduation.13CALIFORNIA INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 86.57ANNUAL TUITION: $47,577PROGRAM WEBSITEOn 124 acres in the beautiful environs of Pasadena, California, sits a world-renowned and pioneering research and education institution dedicated to advancing science and engineering. Cal Tech is home to an array of award-winning faculty members, including 35 Nobel Prize winners. Its investigations into the most challenging, fundamental problems in science and technology in a singularly collegial, interdisciplinary atmosphere have helped Cal Tech to develop a well-deserved reputation. All the while, it educates some of the world’s most outstanding students to become creative members of society.Boasting one of the lowest student to teacher ratios and a rigorous curriculum with access to varied learning opportunities and hands-on research, Cal Tech is a prime destination for prospective engineering students. The Division of Engineering and Applied Sciences offers six majors and two minors for undergraduate students interested in a career or a graduate degree in engineering. As well, the Division of Biological Engineering offers an undergraduate major in Bioengineering, and the Division of Chemical and Chemical Engineering offers an undergraduate major in Chemical Engineering with the option of four different concentrated tracks.14MASSACHUSETTS INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 86.44ANNUAL TUITION: $48,452PROGRAM WEBSITEThe Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is consistently one of the top ranked universities in the world. Its School of Engineering is no different among engineering programs. Founded in 1861, MIT has a proud history of influencing the world through technological leadership and research innovation. MIT is one of the world’s preeminent research universities. The largest of MIT’s five schools, the School of Engineering educates about sixty percent of MIT’s undergraduates. Over a third of MIT’s faculty are in the School of Engineering and they account for more than half of the sponsored research at MIT.The School of Engineering is home to eight academic departments and one division, as well as twenty laboratories and research centers. Undergraduate students in engineering fields have access to some of the world’s leading experts who are conducting some of the most cutting edge research. Students learn from and work with these award-winning leaders by choosing from over thirteen engineering majors and many more minors.15OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY—COLUMBUSCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 85.94ANNUAL TUITION: $28,229PROGRAM WEBSITEThe Columbus campus of Ohio State University is one of the largest university campuses in the nation. It is also home to one of the best colleges of engineering. Students enrolled in the College of Engineering at Ohio State move beyond the traditional lecture/lab approach and take part in experiential learning that provides both team-building skills and technological abilities. The nationally recognized First-Year Engineering Program fosters an appreciation of lifelong learning in general and engineering in particular. In addition to the academic and professional opportunities afforded the nearly 8000 undergraduate engineering students, OSU is known for its vibrant and active campus life.The College of Engineering currently offers fourteen major programs in eleven departments that span the breadth of careers within the profession. Students have the opportunity to follow their own investigational instincts through undergraduate research. Leading experts on the faculty work with the student to sculpt the student’s topic of interest into a feasible research project.More than 40 research centers and laboratories provide students with access to state-of-the-art facilities for research and teaching. The Global Option in Engineering is an exciting program for undergraduate students in any engineering major. These students combine internationally themed courses, experiences with global dimensions, and culture or language training to enhance their global competencies and better prepare them for the practice of engineering in a global environment.16UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN—ANN ARBORCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 85.73ANNUAL TUITION: $43,476PROGRAM WEBSITEAnn Arbor, Michigan is a vibrant, culturally rich community, in no small part to being the home of the flagship campus of the University of Michigan system. It is in many ways the quintessential college town. As the university is nestled in the heart of this city of 100,000 people, so the School of Engineering is the heart of the university’s North Campus, a hub of creativity, where engineering, art, music, and design students coexist and thrive.Michigan Engineering offers seventeen undergraduate programs of study that lead to a Bachelor of Science degree. In addition, there are a variety of programs that help students explore their specific interests, several options for minors, and many other educational opportunities. For example, the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program enables students to work one-on-one or as part of a small group of students on research projects conducted by faculty and research scientists all across campus.The College of Engineering offers hundreds of labs and opportunities to students looking to create their own projects or assist award-winning professors with groundbreaking research. And as one of the nation’s premier public research universities, the University of Michigan offers countless opportunities for undergraduates to enrich their college experience socially, academically, civically, and more.17NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY—RALEIGHCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 85.01ANNUAL TUITION: $26,399PROGRAM WEBSITEThe College of Engineering at North Carolina State is the largest of any college at the university. Eighteen Engineering degrees are offered through nine academic departments in the College of Engineering and three departments in other colleges. The Golden LEAF Biomanufacturing Training and Education Center, Integrated Manufacturing Systems Engineering Institute and Operations Research also offer engineering degrees.Through its state-of-the-art facilities, advanced computer resources, and world-class faculty, the College of Engineering integrates education and research, giving its undergraduate students opportunities to solve real-world problems in classroom, field, and laboratory settings. It also offers degree opportunities on the internet through its Engineering Online program. The Engineering First Year Program is home to first-year engineering students, providing important information that ensures a successful college career.NC State is located in Raleigh, NC, part of what’s known as the Research Triangle, comprised of Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, and anchored by NC State, the University of North Carolina, and Duke University. The proximity to so many world- and industry-leading research projects and the partnerships with other institutions gives NC State undergraduate students an advantage unavailable to many.18STANFORD UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 84.84ANNUAL TUITION: $47,940PROGRAM WEBSITEEngineering undergraduates at Stanford University have an unlimited number of possibilities, with a high number of degree options, research possibilities, and educational experiences. Within the School of Engineering’s departments, students can choose from among nine degree programs. The School of Engineering itself offers interdisciplinary programs leading to the B.S. degree in engineering with seven different specializations. Students may also elect a B.S. in an Individually Designed Major in Engineering. The Bachelor of Arts and Science (B.A.S.) in the School of Engineering is available to students who complete both the requirements for a B.S. degree in engineering and the requirements for a major or program ordinarily leading to the B.A. degree. A degree in Petroleum Engineering is offered by the Department of Energy Resource Engineering in the School of Earth, Energy, and Environmental Sciences.In addition to the plethora of degree options for the undergraduate engineering students at Stanford, qualified students have the opportunity to do independent study and research at an advanced level with a faculty mentor in order to receive a Bachelor of Science with honors. The school’s institutes and programs bring together students and faculty to work together to solve big problems in human-centered ways, to conduct interdisciplinary research, education, and outreach to promote an environmentally sound and sustainable world, and much more.Other opportunities range from service learning programs to internships to study tours. These opportunities enhance engineering education by providing students with an opportunity to learn about technology and engineering globally, to build professional networks, and to gain real world experience in a culturally diverse and international environment.19UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND—COLLEGE PARKCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 84.49ANNUAL TUITION: $32,045PROGRAM WEBSITEThe A. James Clark School of Engineering at the University of Maryland is comprised of seven departments and offers nine undergraduate degrees. A common core curriculum outlines the first year for most students no matter their major. The challenging set of courses emphasizes teamwork. Students also have numerous opportunities for research and design projects. The degree programs put special emphasis on technology entrepreneurship and offer many international and collaborative possibilities.The A. James Clark School of Engineering also provides undergraduate students outstanding resources for their academic pursuits—innovative research opportunities, world-renowned faculty and state-of-the-art facilities. Students are also a part of the University of Maryland community, which offers its own array of resources and opportunities to learn, grow, and have fun on and around its idyllic campus in College Park, MD. As a Clark School Engineer, students will have the opportunity to build a foundation of skills and knowledge that will benefit the world in a very special and unique way, while themselves having a special and unique experience as a Terrapin.20UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA—LOS ANGELESCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 83.34ANNUAL TUITION: $39,518PROGRAM WEBSITEIn the heart of one of the country’s largest metropolitan cities and a part of one of the nation’s premier public university systems, UCLA is a leading institution in a variety of fields and disciplines. Its Henry Samueli School of Engineering and Applied Science is a national leader in technological innovation, interdisciplinary research, and engineering education. Within the school’s seven departments, it offers nine majors that prepare undergraduate students to meet the challenges of the 21st century.The Samueli School curriculum offers a hands-on, multidisciplinary education to prepare students to take on the challenges of their times and to make impact in ways that they cannot yet imagine. Its proximity to the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and the UCLA Anderson School of Management allows UCLA Engineering to excel in the growing field of biomedical and bioengineering research, as well as entrepreneurship.The talented and diverse faculty members at UCLA Engineering are among the top engineering educators and researchers in the world. They lead in fields including energy, sustainability, healthcare, communications, transportation, infrastructure, and information technology. Undergraduates at UCLA have the benefit of all that Los Angeles has to offer as well as the world renowned education the School of Engineering affords them.21RICE UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 83.17ANNUAL TUITION: $43,918PROGRAM WEBSITELocated in Houston, the nation’s fourth largest city, Rice is a comprehensive research university fostering diversity and an intellectual environment that produces the next generation of leaders and advances tomorrow’s thinking. The nine departments of the School of Engineering offer programs toward seven Bachelor of Science and nine Bachelor of Arts degrees and several engineering-related minors.More than sixty percent of Rice undergraduate engineers have a meaningful research experience before graduation. They also own all the intellectual property they create while students at Rice. The Rice Center for Engineering Leadership helps students become inspiring leaders, exceptional team members, effective communicators and bold entrepreneurs. The Rice Center for Career Development not only assists students in finding jobs after graduation, they also help undergraduates secure summer-long internships that are a vital part of the Rice experience.One of the unique features of Rice is its residential colleges. Before matriculating, undergraduates become a member of one of eleven residential colleges, which have their own dining halls, public rooms, and dorms on campus; most of the first-year students and about 75 percent of all undergraduates reside at their associated colleges. Because each student is randomly assigned to one of the colleges, and maintains membership in the same college throughout the undergraduate years, the colleges are enriched by the diversity of their students’ backgrounds, academic interests and experiences, talents, and goals.22ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY—TEMPECOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 82.95ANNUAL TUITION: $25,458PROGRAM WEBSITEArizona State’s Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering has a variety of resources to help undergraduate students succeed along their path to becoming engineers. From the very first semester, Fulton students integrate problem-based learning opportunities in their program courses. The Fulton Undergraduate Research Initiative is a signature program at ASU, allowing undergraduates to work with faculty in pursuing their own research passion. Undergraduates might also take part in the Engineering Projects in Community Service program and design, build, and deploy systems to solve engineering-based problems for not-for-profit and nonprofit organizations. There is also the new Startup Center!, which offers signature entrepreneurship and innovation courses, workshops, expert mentoring, new venture competitions, and more.With two dozen undergraduate majors available, undergraduates at Fulton Schools are able to find the right avenue for pursuing their engineering passions. Fulton Engineering student support services include a thriving residential community, a dedicated Tutoring Center and a dedicated Engineering Career Center hosting workshops, biannual career fairs and more. ASU is located in Tempe, a part of the greater Phoenix area, giving students access to all that a big city has to offer for social and professional development needs.23PRINCETON UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 81.30ANNUAL TUITION: $45,320PROGRAM WEBSITEPrinceton University is one of the world’s premier research universities. At its School of Engineering and Applied Science engineering students learn the fundamental principles of engineering sciences and apply that knowledge to engineering design and practice through advanced courses and independent work. Ample opportunities for study in the life sciences, social sciences, and humanities complete a well-rounded undergraduate education that prepares students for a wide range of careers.Each engineering undergraduate at Princeton pursues an academic program in one of the six engineering departments that reflects his or her aspirations and interests within a general framework of requirements. Students benefit from participation in any of several engineering student organizations, stellar academic advising, and exceptional study abroad programs. But most importantly, Princeton engineering undergraduates learn from and participate with some of the world’s leading experts in their fields.Located in Princeton, NJ, the university’s proximity to New York City and Philadelphia gives students the cultural offerings of two major metropolitan centers that can be reached within one hour by train or car. Being near large cities also benefits engineering students looking for internships during their degree program or jobs upon graduation. But students can also find ample opportunities for social and professional enrichment on the Princeton campus, especially in the activities of their residential colleges.24UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDACOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 79.14ANNUAL TUITION: $28,666PROGRAM WEBSITEThe Herbert Wertheim College of Engineering at the University of Florida is home to one of the largest and most dynamic engineering programs in the nation. Its nine departments offer fifteen undergraduate degree programs and its twenty centers and institutes help produce leaders and problem-solvers who take a multidisciplinary approach to innovative and human-centered solutions. Add to these stellar academic attributes life on one of the country’s liveliest and most exciting university campuses and it is no wonder Florida is an ever popular pick for aspiring engineers.The College of Engineering is approaching 9000 students and is in the top one percent for enrollment of women across all degree types. In addition to the diversity of the student body, the college has five times the U.S. average of startups launched and two times the U.S. average of inventions produced per research dollar invested. These numbers are due in part to the exceptional engineering faculty and in part to the college’s emphasis on innovation and discovery.25CORNELL UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 75.81ANNUAL TUITION: $50,953PROGRAM WEBSITEThe College of Engineering at Cornell University in Ithaca, NY offers one of the broadest curricula in the world with fourteen majors, including the option for students to create their own program, as well as nineteen minors and dozens of concentrations. Cornell engineering students are empowered by an atmosphere of discovery, learning from and working with faculty members who are pushing the limits of engineering. Faculty and students also break the intellectual barriers to finding solutions at the national research centers on campus many of which were established and are led by engineering faculty members. Cornell is home to more than one hundred interdisciplinary centers, institutes, laboratories, and programs that support research and enhance education.With nearly 3200 undergraduate students, the College of Engineering is one of the largest schools at Cornell. Its makeup is diverse and growing. The distinct personal, academic, and professional backgrounds of Cornell’s academic community gives depth and breadth to the interdisciplinary approach that is intrinsic to the university and unparalleled at other institutions. With eleven departments, the depth and breadth of academics at Cornell Engineering translates into unique undergraduate opportunities for focused study and interdisciplinary collaboration.26HARVARD UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 75.17ANNUAL TUITION: $47,074PROGRAM WEBSITEHarvard University has been for some time one of the top research universities in the world. Its attributes as an institution need little mentioning. For those prospective engineering undergraduates, knowing more about Harvard’s John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences might help as they explore potential educational opportunities.The School takes a broad-minded approach to education, designing courses and programs to cater to students at multiple levels and fully incorporating laboratory research. There are eight primary research interests in the School offering, six of which offer curriculum for a bachelor degree. Undergraduates can pursue one of seven Bachelor of Arts degrees or one of four Bachelor of Science degrees.Much coursework and several individual research opportunities allow undergraduates to work with professors on extraordinary projects. Dedicated undergraduate research facilities and Active Learning Labs also provide opportunities for students to engage in hands-on learning. The School’s student organizations, research centers, initiatives, and institutes provide further opportunity to develop socially, academically, and professionally.27UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA—SAN DIEGOCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 74.63ANNUAL TUITION: $41,387PROGRAM WEBSITEJust outside of sunny San Diego, La Jolla, CA, is home to the University of California–San Diego. UCSD is one of six UC schools to make our top 50 list. The Jacobs School of Engineering offers nearly twenty undergraduate majors leading to a bachelor’s degree. Its six award-winning departments provide close to 7000 undergraduate students with a breadth and depth unparalleled for undergraduate programs.Jacobs is set apart by its entrepreneurial culture and integrative engineering approach. The education model at Jacobs focuses on deep and broad engineering fundamentals, enhanced by real-world design and research, often in partnership with industry. Through their Team Internship Program and GlobalTeams in Engineering Service program, for example, they encourage students to develop their communications and leadership skills while working in the kind of multi-disciplinary team environment experienced by real-world engineers.Students have many options for development and social and professional interaction. The many exciting and active research centers provide opportunities for hands-on learning. And, being located at the hub of San Diego’s thriving information technology, biotechnology, clean technology, and nanotechnology sectors, the Jacobs School proactively seeks corporate partners to collaborate with them and their students in research, education, and innovation.28CARNEGIE MELLON UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 74.45ANNUAL TUITION: $52,040PROGRAM WEBSITECarnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, PA is home to a world-class College of Engineering. With an eye toward the future, the curriculum at the College focuses on educating engineers to be properly equipped for successful careers in today’s global economy. It includes intensive classroom, laboratory, and hands-on learning. The work is challenging and the curriculum customizable.General engineering courses are required in the first year, giving students an opportunity to familiarize themselves with a discipline before choosing a major. Many of the courses are project-based, including the “Introduction to Engineering” classes taken in the first year. Students are able to learn and practice under the supervision of our world-class faculty, who stress creativity and independent thinking, while requiring the student to define a problem, to design in the presence of technical and socioeconomic constraints, to make judgments among alternative solutions, and to explore innovative alternatives to more conventional solutions.The college offers a five-year joint bachelor’s and master’s degree in all five of the traditional majors, and an accelerated master’s program in Engineering & Technology Innovation Management. The College of Engineering also offers a unique joint degree with the Tepper School of Business where students can earn a BSE and an MBA in five years.29UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO—BOULDERCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 73.54ANNUAL TUITION: $35,079PROGRAM WEBSITEThe College of Engineering and Applied Science at the University of Colorado in Boulder offers fourteen undergraduate degree programs. From Aerospace Engineering to Technology, Arts and Media, Colorado’s over 4000 engineering undergraduates have the opportunity for a world-class education on one of the most vibrant campuses in the country.The College of Engineering and Applied Science prides itself on their pioneering new approach to engineering education that places the student’s needs first and is integrative, collaborative, and inclusive. Students in the College are well prepared for entering careers in an increasingly global workforce.The many signature programs available at Colorado enhance the educational and professional development of engineering students. These programs include the Integrated Teaching and Learning Program, which provides hands-on design experience to undergraduate students in its unique, award-winning facility. The college’s First-Year Engineering Projects Course allows students to put engineering theory into practice early in their undergraduate careers. Students work together on developing a variety of projects that address a wide range of real-world issues. The BOLD (Broadening Opportunity through Leadership and Diversity) Center fosters success through academic resources, student leadership, mentorship, research and career development opportunities and a supportive community in order to break down the barriers that keep too many of today’s young talent from reaching their aspirations.30UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA—DAVISCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 72.74ANNUAL TUITION: $40,728PROGRAM WEBSITEThe College of Engineering at the University of California Davis provides an undergraduate engineering education based on strong fundamentals. It provides students the tools they need to prepare for careers and continue to grow and adapt in a quickly changing technical world. Its undergraduate students have many opportunities for hands-on engineering through research, design competitions, student clubs, internships and, of course, classroom projects, with access to a large, well-equipped student shop, a rare resource in engineering schools today.UC Davis offers the most comprehensive engineering program and the most ABET-accredited engineering majors among the six schools appearing in this list from the University of California system. The College of Engineering not only provides access to a well-rounded educational experience, it provides several student resources, facilities, and organizations to help engineering undergraduates succeed in school and beyond.The Engineering Fabrication Laboratory is the university’s primary manufacturing shop for the numerous student teams and research groups within the College of Engineering. The Engineering Student Startup Center is an on-campus space where UC Davis students can prototype ideas and collaborate on technology ventures. The space was designed as a creativity hub for learners and young entrepreneurs, and is equipped with resources to empower students at the earliest stages of their startup ideas. Dedicated computer labs and student centers for engineering students is just some of the small touches that make UC Davis an excellent choice for engineering undergraduates.31NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 72.32ANNUAL TUITION: $50,855PROGRAM WEBSITEAt Northwestern University in Evanston, IL, the McCormick School of Engineering has developed the concept of whole-brain engineering. This idea permeates the full environment at McCormick and runs its way through all of the bachelor’s programs. Over a dozen undergraduate majors deliver a balanced education through coursework, research, internships, and extracurricular activities.Three key areas characterize a McCormick experience: design, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Design connects the technical skills of engineering with the creativity needed to correctly frame and solve the problem. The Farley Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation provides course offerings, funding, and guidance to students looking to nurture and develop their innovative ideas. And with resources such as the Center for Leadership, McCormick students gain the skills and ability to rally support around an objective, manage team dynamics, and maximize collaboration.Northwestern’s proximity to Chicago gives its students access to cultural experiences and professional networks that enhance the school’s already stellar degree programs. McCormick also provides resources like personal and career development that further shape its students into engineers who impact the world.32JOHNS HOPKINS UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 71.84ANNUAL TUITION: $50,410PROGRAM WEBSITEAt the Whiting School of Engineering at Johns Hopkins University, an engineering education is based in a solid foundation of basic science, mathematics, and computing. Beginning freshman year, Hopkins students are immersed in the innovative application of engineering concepts, applying engineering knowledge and working across disciplines to solve society’s greatest challenges. Undergraduates work in collaboration with faculty who are recognized leaders in their fields. They conduct research, take part in internships, find jobs, study abroad, and are encouraged to pursue academic interests outside their major.The Hopkins Engineering community is small, tight-knit and collegial, with all the benefits that come with being part of the Johns Hopkins global research network. Since 1979, Johns Hopkins University has been ranked by the National Science Foundation as the nation’s leading academic institution in total research and development spending. With any of the eleven undergraduate engineering programs, students will learn from and work with leading and active experts in their fields. Whiting boasts a 9:1 student to faculty ratio. The intimacy paired with the world-class research makes Hopkins one of the best choices for undergraduates who desire a hands-on experience.33UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA—SANTA BARBARACOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 71.20ANNUAL TUITION: $40,704PROGRAM WEBSITEThe College of Engineering at the University of California at Santa Barbara provides a small-school atmosphere at a major university. Its five undergraduate majors give the nearly 1500 students a chance to study with world renowned faculty in an intimate environment. The 10:1 faculty to student ratio allows students to get to know leading scholars while learning from and working with them.The mission of the College of Engineering is to provide its students a firm grounding in scientific and mathematical fundamentals; experience in analysis, synthesis, and design of engineering systems; and exposure to current engineering practice and cutting edge engineering research and technology. To that end, UCSB engineering undergraduates have opportunities for interaction in active student organizations, expansion in study abroad programs, and discovery in one of several undergraduate research programs.The beautiful and inspiring setting of Santa Barbara on the California coastline is merely the backdrop to a globally top-ranked educational and research experience with the College of Engineering at UCSB. Access to the Los Angeles metropolitan area to the south and the Bay Area further north, give UCSB Engineering students large job markets to enter.34DUKE UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 70.17ANNUAL TUITION: $51,265PROGRAM WEBSITEStudents at Duke’s Pratt School of Engineering are active, well-rounded, and successful. They participate in meaningful research, study abroad, and become active in student organizations, many of which are specialized engineering groups. And Duke gives them a top-notch education, preparing them to take their activity and success to a wider world.Pratt School of Engineering offers Bachelor of Science degrees in four major engineering disciplines: Biomedical Engineering, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering. While each engineering major offers options for specialized study, the general engineering degree requirements are the same for all majors.Duke itself is a world-renowned university located in Durham, NC, a part of the famous Research Triangle. Engineering students not only benefit from the vibrant campus life at Duke, but they also benefit from the fertile research atmosphere that fills the region. The Research Experience for Undergraduates program is unmatched and provides opportunities to gain valuable research skills that make students highly competitive for jobs, internships, and graduate school scholarships.35UNIVERSITY OF PITTSBURGHCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 69.00ANNUAL TUITION: $29,758PROGRAM WEBSITEThe Swanson School of Engineering at the University of Pittsburgh has seven departments offering thirteen engineering programs. Although some students enter the Swanson School of Engineering with a departmental major already in mind, all students are admitted to the First-Year Engineering Program as undecided engineering majors. This first year experience is crucial to the development of the student and the future engineer. The program offers a common set of core courses, allowing students to share experiences and thus build lasting friendships and professional networks. It also ensures a solid foundation in math and science and thus create better chances for future success.The Freshman Engineering Integrated Curriculum requires the work and cooperation between different engineering departments in addition to the School of Arts and Sciences. The faculty is particularly devoted to the students they teach and have an ongoing commitment to the success of this program. They also happen to be leaders in their fields.Several centers, institutes, and labs give students opportunities for hands-on research experiences. And the many student organizations enhance the educational experiences of students by providing social and professional interactions with peers and future colleagues.36UNIVERSITY OF ARIZONACOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 68.82ANNUAL TUITION: $30,025PROGRAM WEBSITEAt the University of Arizona’s College of Engineering, undergraduates can choose from among fourteen majors. All engineering students start with hands-on introductory design courses. The UA College of Engineering has a 91-percent first-year retention rate, far higher than the national average. They pair some of their best instructors with freshmen; provide hands-on, interactive learning; and offer a number of advising, tutoring, and mentoring services.A unique opportunity for underclassmen engineering students at Arizona is the Engineering Leadership Community. The ELC is a unique living-learning community that brings together first and second-year engineering undergraduate students, helping them to develop their skills as future members of the profession, while giving them a real sense of belonging to the College of Engineering. Students have the opportunity to form a cohort of peers who attend classes together, receive guidance from a faculty member, pursue social networking among the UA engineering community and explore engineering professions.In addition the College is home to several dozen engineering clubs and organizations, an Honors Program, and an Engineering Ambassadors program. Students can also further enhance their education through study abroad programs and excellent tutoring and study groups.37COLORADO SCHOOL OF MINESCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 67.65ANNUAL TUITION: $34,828PROGRAM WEBSITEAt the Colorado School of Mines, earth, energy, and environment are the focus for students of engineering and applied sciences. The six of the school’s departments offer engineering majors, while two offer engineering minors. Colorado School of Mines is a public research university devoted to engineering and applied science. It has the highest admissions standards of any public university in Colorado and among the highest of any public university in the U.S.The Colorado School of Mines has distinguished itself by developing a curriculum and research program geared towards responsible stewardship of the earth and its resources. In addition to strong education and research programs in traditional fields of science and engineering, the school is one of a very few institutions in the world having broad expertise in resource exploration, extraction, production, and utilization.The school has 180 student organizations on campus, eighteen intercollegiate athletic teams, and the largest section of the Society of Women Engineers. Modern research facilities including more than 40 specialized centers, a strong interdisciplinary teaching and research focus and low student-to-faculty ratio offer a personalized education and encourage students to investigate problems from real-world perspectives. The school’s’ reputation and high admission standards, as well as its alumni network in industry, government, and academic institutions, contribute to a high placement rate.38RUTGERS UNIVERSITY—NEW BRUNSWICKCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 66.19ANNUAL TUITION: $30,023PROGRAM WEBSITEAt the main campus of the State University of New Jersey in New Brunswick, Rutgers University’s School of Engineering continues the 250-year tradition of success at one of the leading public research institutions in the country. For nearly 150 of those years, a Rutgers Engineering education has prepared students for rewarding and successful careers in an ever-changing world through rigorous coursework, supported by groundbreaking research opportunities and leadership development.Undergraduate students in the School of Engineering follow a common first year curriculum. In the latter half of the first year, students declare a major from the over eight majors on offer. Also, those students with a desire and an outstanding first-year experience may find their way to the Engineering Honors Academy. Through selective academic courses and living together in residential halls during a portion of their time as undergraduates, Academy scholars enjoy an environment that facilitates strong intellectual bonds and personal growth. The students are challenged with accelerated courses and have the opportunity to participate in the prestigious James J. Slade research program which culminates in a final presentation and an honors thesis.All Rutgers Engineering students benefit from top-notch facilities, advising, and student services. And with the excellent career and professional development services, Rutgers students are well-prepared to take on fulfilling and successful careers in industry, government, research, and academia.39COLUMBIA UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 65.09ANNUAL TUITION: $55,056PROGRAM WEBSITEAt Columbia University’s Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science, students not only study science and mathematics and gain technical skills but also study literature, philosophy, art history, music theory, and major civilizations through the Core Curriculum in the humanities. The first and second years of the four-year undergraduate programs comprise approximately 66 semester credits exposing students to a cross-fertilization of ideas from different disciplines within the University.Columbia’s is one of the oldest and most distinguished engineering programs in the country. There are sixteen areas of study for engineering students, each of which affords students opportunities to learn from some of the most awarded faculty in the world. The advantageous location of the university provides research, internship, and entrepreneurship opportunities in New York City and other nearby metropolitan areas.Students are immersed in hand-on design programs from the very beginning of their programs. They participate in real research that has real world impact. The over 1400 undergraduate engineering students at Columbia are able to participate in several student organizations, take part in a variety of fellowships, and take advantage of all that Columbia and NYC have to offer.40UNIVERSITY OF UTAHCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 64.89ANNUAL TUITION: $27,039PROGRAM WEBSITEAt the University of Utah’s College of Engineering, undergraduate students can choose to focus their studies in one of seven departments, which offer eight majors and three minors. The university’s campus is located in Utah’s largest city, Salt Lake City. The pristine surroundings and the metropolitan environment offer an unparalleled variety of activity for university students.The College of Engineering had its origins in the State School of Mines, established in the 1890s. Dedicated to enhancing Utah’s mining industry, it was among the first engineering programs west of the Mississippi River. A strong tradition of educational and technical support for local industry continues to the present day. Today the College has nearly 3600 undergraduate students, awarding nearly 500 bachelor degrees a year.Within the college educational opportunities and resources that expand and enhance the core curriculum of each major abound. State of the art facilities, study abroad programs, an honors program, and a wide variety of student organizations are many of the things that help Utah stand out on the engineering landscape. In addition Utah’s engineering research opportunities and tutoring centers give students experiences and assistance for success at Utah and beyond.41UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIACOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 64.42ANNUAL TUITION: $45,066PROGRAM WEBSITEOne of the nation’s oldest public universities, the University of Virginia has been a leading research institution for nearly 200 years. The School of Engineering and Applied Science embodies the university’s successful ethos. Founded in 1836, the Engineering School is the third oldest engineering school in a public university in the U.S.Within the Engineering School undergraduate programs, courses in engineering, ethics, mathematics, the sciences, and the humanities are available to build a strong foundation for careers in engineering and other professions. The school’s abundant research opportunities complement the curriculum and educate undergraduates to become thoughtful leaders in technology and society. The distinguished faculty lead the nearly 2700 undergraduate students through instruction and collaboration in a variety of engineering disciplines, including cutting-edge research programs in computer and information science and engineering, bioengineering and nanotechnology, and energy and the environment. The University of Virginia School of Engineering and Applied Science is home to nine departments offering ten undergraduate programs.Located in what the U.S. National Bureau of Economic Research named the “happiest city in America,” the University of Virginia provides its students a full academic and social life. Charlottesville is found in Central Virginia just east of the Blue Ridge Mountains. It offers stunning beauty, extraordinary culture, and an inexhaustible list of things to do.42AUBURN UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 64.34ANNUAL TUITION: $28,840PROGRAM WEBSITEAuburn University in Auburn, AL is home to the Samuel Ginn College of Engineering. The university has been offering engineering courses since 1872, and at Ginn College today students can choose from among a dozen undergraduate majors. Ginn provides excellent academic, research, and outreach programs; computer and laboratory facilities that are second to none; and a world-class faculty. The college is recognized as a major contributor to the region’s economic development and industrial competitiveness, with national and global influence.The Samuel Ginn College of Engineering is among the nation’s top 50 in research expenditures. Undergraduates get to participate in many of the school’s award-winning research programs, and the strong research environment brings cutting-edge ideas and practices into the classroom. Ginn research programs collaborate with government agencies, businesses, and foundations to identify research needs, expand established technologies, and develop new ones, and transfer knowledge and technology to industry.At Ginn undergraduate students als have the opportunity to join a variety of student organizations, participate in engineering global programs, and take part in one of the liveliest university campus environments in the country. Career connections and tutoring centers help Ginn undergraduates become successful engineers that impact the world.43UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIACOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 63.65ANNUAL TUITION: $51,464PROGRAM WEBSITEPenn Engineering offers two broad engineering-based degrees. The Bachelor of Science in Engineering (BSE) is the flagship program, preparing students for careers in professional engineering and related fields. Students can choose to concentrate in one of nine majors while pursuing the BSE. The Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) provides students more breadth, and allows them to combine a technology-based degree with course work options in other disciplines. The BAS degree is designed primarily for students whose interests are not oriented toward professional engineering. Students pursuing a BAS can choose from among four majors or work with Penn’s award-winning faculty to create an individualized focus of study.The numerous academic resources include many active student organizations, a tutoring program, and an office of Research and Academic Services. Research opportunities abound in Penn’s various interdisciplinary research centers and institutes. The extraordinary faculty-to-student ratio provides great opportunities for undergraduate students to work in state-of-the-art research laboratories during the academic year and in the summer. The dedicated Science and Engineering Library provides ample resources for research and study. And Penn’s location in Philadelphia provides a wealth of activities and opportunities for internships and career-launching jobs.44CLEMSON UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 61.88ANNUAL TUITION: $32,796PROGRAM WEBSITEThe College of Engineering, Computing and Applied Sciences at Clemson University in Clemson, SC has as its mission to create future engineers and scientists who can be productive in a global economy. All first-year undergraduates in the college begin with General Engineering courses. After that the college offers a broad range of rigorous and stimulating baccalaureate programs which provide unexcelled educational opportunities. Students may choose from among thirteen focused majors. The innovative combination of engineering and science disciplines which comprises the College facilitates study and research in fields transcending the traditional disciplines. Students enjoy close interaction with a distinguished faculty committed to excellence in undergraduate education as well as in research.With so much research at the University, there are plenty of opportunities for undergraduates to experience hands-on learning. Many students join Creative Inquiry teams and conduct research while applying classroom knowledge to real-life situations. Creative Inquiry projects require several semesters of commitment and provide invaluable hands-on experience as the participants find, analyze, and evaluate information. Clemson also has several student services, cooperative education and internships, and the vibrancy of a major university campus.45UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA—IRVINECOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 61.39ANNUAL TUITION: $39,458PROGRAM WEBSITEThe Henry Samueli School of Engineering at the University of California at Irvine offers undergraduate degrees in a wide range of traditional and emerging fields. All engineering programs at UCI combine science, engineering fundamentals, design principles and application, and a culminating design experience. Students are encouraged to participate in research and hands-on engineering design opportunities to develop the practical skills needed for graduate study or employment. Two-thirds of undergraduate students participate in faculty-led research projects by the time they graduate. The Samueli School currently offers twelve majors and two minors.Over 3200 engineering undergraduates call UCI home and find focus in one of Samueli School’s five academic departments: biomedical engineering; chemical engineering and materials science; civil and environmental engineering; electrical engineering and computer science; and mechanical and aerospace engineering. The school pursues research that is timely, socially responsible and cutting edge, and works in partnership with industry and state and federal agencies to promote the transfer of research to applications that benefit society.Located in Irvine, CA, in Orange County, the school is situated within the larger Los Angeles metropolitan area and is also within reach of San Diego. Access to these major cities gives UCI students plenty of opportunities to explore cultural activities and professional networks.46UNIVERSITY OF DELAWARECOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 60.81ANNUAL TUITION: $31,420PROGRAM WEBSITEThe University of Delaware in Newark, DE traces its historic roots back to 1743, making it one of the oldest universities in the U.S. Today is stands as a national leading research-intensive, technologically advanced institution. The College of Engineering is one of the university’s seven colleges and is home to seven academic departments and three degree programs devoted to building a community of problem-solvers focused on challenges associated with sustainability, energy, healthcare, and the environment. Within those degree programs, students can choose from among nine majors and eleven minors.Over 2300 undergraduates are following a course of study in the College of Engineering at Delaware. A select number of these exceptionally capable and well-motivated students are given the chance to see and have a part in what is happening at the frontiers of knowledge today through the Undergraduate Research Program. The Science and Engineering Scholars Program combines the resources of the University’s science and engineering colleges and research centers, the Undergraduate Research Program, and industrial and government sponsors to give the selected students in-depth research apprenticeships in all areas of science and engineering.Delaware provides students with all of the resources of a large university together with the charm and intimacy of a small school. Student organizations, offices of development and support, career services, educational support, and other resources help to assure a successful journey through the undergraduate years.47YALE UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 60.52ANNUAL TUITION: $49,480PROGRAM WEBSITEYale University is a world-famous institution of higher education and research. It is consistently recognized as one of the most outstanding universities in the world. It is no surprise then that its School of Engineering and Applied Science is among the best in the country. Like any other outstanding college engineering program, Yale teaches students the principles of math and science, modern software tools, and how to design devices and systems. With most of its faculty being involved in cutting-edge research, many opportunities exist for students to participate. Unlike many students at many technically focused institutions, students in Yale Engineering take their non-engineering subjects in classes taught by renowned faculty and together with liberal arts majors whose focus is on social, political, economic, and other humanities areas.The student to faculty ratio is among the best in the country. Yale’s School of Engineering and Applied Science has approximately sixty professors and it graduates approximately sixty engineering majors each year. Students have the opportunity to work alongside their faculty mentors on the cutting-edge of contemporary research. Many faculty members involve undergraduates in their research.Student and professional organizations in the larger Yale community and specifically in the College of Engineering and Applied Science give Yale engineering students many and various opportunity for personal and social development. Yale’s location in New Haven, CT, with its ease of access to New York City, provides students with unlimited possibilities for cultural experiences, as well as career and professional networks.48VANDERBILT UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 60.03ANNUAL TUITION: $45,610PROGRAM WEBSITEThe School of Engineering at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, TN offers a Bachelor of Engineering in six degree programs and a Bachelor of Science in two programs. The School of Engineering highly recommends students actively seek out opportunities in various areas of interest in order to gain valuable skills and knowledge in research fields. Research-active faculty members often allow undergraduate students to work in their labs as student workers, technicians, or assistants.In addition to exceptional curricula and research opportunities within the School itself, Vanderbilt Engineering is a part of the larger Vanderbilt University context. As a major research university, with a long heritage of excellent undergraduate education, Vanderbilt offers all that one expects from large institution. Student life is vibrant, with social and cultural activities abounding. Within the School of Engineering, several student organizations help undergraduates develop professionally and socially.Honors programs, internships, study abroad programs, and other activities in the school give undergraduates experiences and perspectives not available in the classroom or lab alone. Engineering Career Development assists students with their first steps into the job market. Vanderbilt undergraduates are well prepared to impact the world.49UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIACOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 58.91ANNUAL TUITION: $52,217PROGRAM WEBSITEThe University of Southern California in Los Angeles is one of the leading private research universities in the world. Nearly 2600 of its 19,000 undergraduates call the Viterbi School of Engineering home. The USC Viterbi School of Engineering is innovative, elite, and internationally recognized for creating new models of education, research and commercialization that are firmly rooted in real world needs.Viterbi’s First Year Excellence program aims to support student success and to help ensure a smooth transition to USC and Viterbi through a variety of different programs and services. The Engineering Freshmen Academy is a course every Viterbi undergraduate must take. The course approaches engineering from a different perspective, providing a macro-level view of the engineering profession by addressing the ethical, societal, and political impact of engineering. Academy section is assigned “Academy Coaches,” upper division Viterbi students who serve as resources and mentors to first year students.Since USC is in the heart of Los Angeles, there is a world of opportunity for its students. Cultural events abound. Beaches and mountains are within reach. Leaders from a variety of industries call LA home. Viterbi graduates, then, are well prepared to face the diverse challenges of the world and make an impact toward their resolutions.50MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITYCOLLEGE CHOICE SCORE: 58.55ANNUAL TUITION: $39,090PROGRAM WEBSITEStudents in the College of Engineering at Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI are involved in a thriving, research-active environment. There they can sharpen problem-solving skills, connect with resources, interact with fellow engineers and students from other majors, and become a well-rounded engineer. Beginning in the first year, MSU Engineering students are immersed in a combination of academic rigor and hands-on, design-intensive education.The College of Engineering offers ten Bachelor of Science majors, spanning from the traditional, widely-recognized engineering degree titles to more interdisciplinary programs that permit students to build a foundation in engineering and add in courses from other fields of study. Incoming students are strongly encouraged to consider joining the CoRe Experience, where students live in the same residence hall where early engineering courses are taught. The experience provides students with the opportunity to be a part of a living-learning community focused on the engineering grand challenges of tomorrow.MSU is a large research university with all the amenities and options one would expect from such an institution. The many research projects give undergraduates ample opportunity to gain considerable professional experience. The student resources and organizations within the College of Engineering give MSU Engineering students a tremendous academic, social, and professional boost. And the vibrancy of the university campus rounds out the undergraduate experience for College of Engineering students.

Pollock’s Toy Museum is one of London’s loveliest small museums, a creaking Dickensian warren of wooden floors, low ceilings, threadbare carpets, and steep, winding stairs, housed in two connected townhouses. Its small rooms house a large, haphazard collection of antique and vintage toys – tin cars and trains; board games from the 1920s; figures of animals and people in wood, plastic, lead; paint-chipped and faintly dangerous-looking rocking horses; stuffed teddy bears from the early 20thcentury; even – purportedly – a 4,000 year old mouse fashioned from Nile clay.RELATED CONTENTMeet Pedro the “Voder,” the First Electronic Machine to TalkOn the Science of CreepinessAnd dolls. Dolls with “sleepy eyes”, with staring, glass eyes. Dolls with porcelain faces, with “true-to-life” painted ragdoll faces, with mops of real hair atop their heads, with no hair at all. One-hundred-and-fifty-year-old Victorian dolls, rare dolls with wax faces. Dolls with cheery countenances, dolls with stern expressions. Sweet dolls and vaguely sinister dolls. Skinny Dutch wooden dolls from the end of the 19th century, dolls in “traditional” Japanese or Chinese dress. One glassed-off nook of a room is crammed with porcelain-faced dolls in 19th-century clothing, sitting in vintage model carriages and propped up in wrought iron bedsteads, as if in a miniaturized, overcrowded Victorian orphanage.Some visitors to the museum, however, can’t manage the doll room, which is the last room before the museum’s exit; instead, they trek all the way back to the museum’s entrance, rather than go through. “It just freaks them out,” says Ken Hoyt, who has worked at the museum for more than seven years. He says it’s usually adults, not children, who can’t handle the dolls. And it happens more often during the winter, when the sun goes down early and the rooms are a bit darker. “It’s like you’d think they’ve gone through a haunted house… It’s not a great way to end their visit to the Pollock’s Toy Museum,” he says, laughing, “because anything else that they would have seen that would have been charming and wonderful is totally gone now.”A fear of dolls does have a proper name, pediophobia, classified under the broader fear of humanoid figures (automatonophobia) and related to pupaphobia, a fear of puppets. But most of the people made uncomfortable by the doll room at Pollock’s Toy Museum probably don’t suffer from pediophobia so much as an easy-to-laugh-off, often culturally reinforced, unease. “I think people just dismiss them, ‘Oh, I’m scared of dolls’, almost humorously – ‘I can’t look at those, I hate them,’ laughingly, jokingly. Most people come down laughing and saying, ‘I hated that last room, that was terrible,’” Hoyt says. Dolls – and it must be said, not all dolls – don’t really frighten people so much as they “creep” them out. And that is a different emotional state all together.SEE ALSO: Read about the history and psychology of scary clownsDolls have been a part of human play for thousands of years – in 2004, a 4,000-year-old stone doll was unearthed in an archeological dig on the Mediterranean island of Pantelleria; the British Museum has several examples of ancient Egyptian rag dolls, made of papyrus-stuffed linen. Over millennia, toy dolls crossed continents and social strata, were made from sticks and rags, porcelain and vinyl, and have been found in the hands of children everywhere. And by virtue of the fact that dolls are people in miniature, unanimated by their own emotions, it’s easy for a society to project whatever it wanted on to them: Just as much as they could be made out of anything, they could be made into anything.“I think there is quite a tradition of using dolls to reflect cultural values and how we see children or who we wish them to be,” says Patricia Hogan, curator at The Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, New York, and associate editor of the American Journal of Play. For example, she says, by the end of the 19th century, many parents no longer saw their children as unfinished adults, but rather regarded childhood as a time of innocence that ought to be protected. In turn, dolls’ faces took on a more cherubic, angelic look. Dolls also have an instructional function, often reinforcing gender norms and social behavior: Through the 18thand 19thcentury, dressing up dolls gave little girls the opportunity to learn to sew or knit; Hogan says girls also used to act out social interactions with their dolls, not only the classic tea parties, but also more complicated social rituals such as funerals as well. In the early 20th century, right around the time that women were increasingly leaving the home and entering the workplace, infant dolls became more popular, inducting young girls into a cult of maternal domesticity. In the second half of the 20th century, Barbie and her myriad career (and sartorial) options provided girls with alternative aspirations, while action figures offered boys a socially acceptable way to play with dolls. The recent glut of boy-crazy, bizarrely proportioned, hyper-consumerist girl dolls (think Bratz, Monster High) says something about both how society sees girls and how girls see themselves, although what is for another discussion.So dolls, without meaning to, mean a lot. But one of the more relatively recent ways we relate to dolls is as strange objects of – and this is a totally scientific term – creepiness.image:image:image:image:image:image:image:Pimage:image:A doll's vacant stare invites meaning. (© 2/ballyscanlon/Ocean/Corbis)Research into why we think things are creepy and what potential use that might have is somewhat limited, but it does exist (“creepy”, in the modern sense of the word, has been around since the middle of the 19th century; its first appearance in The New York Times was in an 1877 reference to a story about a ghost). In 2013, Frank McAndrew, a psychologist at Knox College in Illinois, and Sara Koehnke, a graduate student, put out a small paper on their working hypothesis about what “creepiness” means; the paper was based on the results of a survey of more than 1,300 people investigating what “creeped” them out (collecting dolls was named as one of the creepiest hobbies).Creepiness, McAndrew says, comes down to uncertainty. “You’re getting mixed messages. If something is clearly frightening, you scream, you run away. If something is disgusting, you know how to act,” he explains. “But if something is creepy… it might be dangerous but you’re not sure it is… there’s an ambivalence.” If someone is acting outside of accepted social norms – standing too close, or staring, say – we become suspicious of their intentions. But in the absence of real evidence of a threat, we wait and in the meantime, call them creepy. The upshot, McAndrew says, is that being in a state of “creeped out” makes you “hyper-vigilant”. “It really focuses your attention and helps you process any relevant information to help you decide whether there is something to be afraid of or not. I really think creepiness is where we respond in situations where we don’t know have enough information to respond, but we have enough to put us on our guard.”Human survival over countless generations depended on the avoidance of threats; at the same time, humans thrived in groups. The creeped out response, McAndrew theorized, is shaped by the twin forces of being attuned to potential threats, and therefore out-of-the-ordinary behavior, and of being wary of rocking the social boat. “From an evolutionary perspective, people who responded with this creeped out response did better in the long run. People who didn’t might have ignored dangerous things, or they’re more likely to jump to the wrong conclusion too quickly and be socially ostracized,” he explains.Dolls inhabit this area of uncertainty largely because they look human but we know they are not. Our brains are designed to read faces for important information about intentions, emotions and potential threats; indeed, we’re so primed to see faces and respond to them that we see them everywhere, in streaked windows and smears of Marmite, toast and banana peels, a phenomenon under the catchall term “pareidolia” (try not to see the faces in this I See Faces Instagram feed). However much we know that a doll is (likely) not a threat, seeing a face that looks human but isn’t unsettles our most basic human instincts.“We shouldn’t be afraid of a little piece of plastic, but it’s sending out social signals,” says McAndrew, noting too that depending on the doll, these signals could just as easily trigger a positive response, such as protectiveness. “They look like people but aren’t people, so we don’t know how to respond to it, just like we don’t know how to respond when we don’t know whether there is a danger or not... the world in which we evolved how we process information, there weren’t things like dolls.”Some researchers also believe that a level of mimicry of nonverbal cues, such as hand movements or body language, is fundamental to smooth human interaction. The key is that it has to be the right level of mimicry – too much or too little and we get creeped out. In a study published in Psychological Science in 2012, researchers from the University of Groningen in the Netherlands found that inappropriate nonverbal mimicry produced a physical response in the creeped out subject: They felt chills. Dolls don’t have the ability to mimic (although they do seem to have the ability to make eye contact), but because at least part some part of our brain is suspicious about whether this is a human or not, we may expect them to, further confusing things.You can’t talk about creepy dolls without invoking the “uncanny valley”, the unsettling place where creepy dolls, like their robot cousins, and before them, the automatons, reside. The uncanny valley refers to the idea that human react favorably to humanoid figures until a point at which these figures become too human. At that point, the small differences between the human and the inhuman – maybe an awkward gait, an inability to use appropriate eye contact or speech patterns – become amplified to the point of discomfort, unease, disgust, and terror. The idea originated with Japanese roboticist Masahiro Mori’s 1970 essay anticipating the challenges robot-makers would face. Although the title of the paper, “Bukimi No Tani”, is actually more closely translated as “valley of eeriness”, the word “uncanny” hearkens back to a concept that psychiatrist Ernst Jentsch explored in 1906 and that Sigmund Freud described in a 1919 paper, “The Uncanny”. Though the two differed in their interpretations – Freud’s was, unsurprisingly, Freudian: the uncanny recalls our repressed fears and anti-social desires – the basic idea was that the familiar is somehow rendered strange, and that discomfort is rooted in uncertainty.But the uncanny valley is, for scientists and psychologists alike, a woolly area. Given the resources being poured into robotics, there’s been more research into whether or not the uncanny valley is real, if it’s even a valley and not a cliff, and where exactly it resides. Thus far, results aren’t conclusive; some studies suggest that the uncanny valley doesn’t exist, some reinforce the notion that people are unsettled by inhuman objects that look and act too human. These studies are likely complicated by the fact that widespread exposure to more “natural” looking humanoid figures is on the rise through animated films and video games. Maybe like the Supreme Court standard for obscenity, we know uncanny, creepy humanoids when we see them?But before the 18th and 19th centuries, dolls weren’t real enough to be threatening. Only when they began to look too human, did dolls start to become creepy, uncanny, and psychology began investigating.“Doll manufacturers figured out how to better manipulate materials to make dolls look more lifelike or to develop mechanisms that make them appear to behave in ways that humans behave,” says Hogan, pointing to the “sleep eye” innovation in the early 1900s, where the doll would close her eyes when laid horizontal in exactly the way real children don’t (that would be too easy for parents). “I think that’s where the unease comes with dolls, they look like humans and in some ways move like humans and the more convincing they look or move or look like humans, the more uneasy we become.”At Pollock’s, the dolls that people find particularly creepy are the ones that look more lifelike, says Hoyt; these are also the ones that have begun to decay in eerily inhuman ways. “The dolls don’t age well.… I think any time that a doll really tried to look like a human being and now is 100 years old, the hair is decaying, the eyes don’t work any more. So it looks as much like a baby as possible, but like an ancient baby,” Hoyt says.Which presents an interesting phenomenon: The creepiness of realistic dolls is complicated by the fact that some people want dolls (and robots) that look as lifelike as possible. Reborns are a good illustration of the problem; hyper-realistic, these are custom-crafted infant dolls that, reborn artists and makers say, “you can love forever”. The more lifelike an infant doll is – and some of them even boast heartbeats, breathing motion, and cooing – the more desirable it is among reborn devotees, but equally, the more it seems to repulse the general public.Perhaps it comes down to what we can make dolls into. In A.F. Robertson’s 2004 investigation into doll-collecting, Life Like Dolls: The Collector Doll Phenomenon and the Lives of the Women Who Love Them, some of the women who collected porcelain dolls thought of their dolls as alive, as sentient beings with feelings and emotions; these women who referred to their doll collections as “nurseries” were sometimes “shunned” by other antique doll collectors who did not have the relationship to their own dolls. Women – and it is almost exclusively women – who collect reborns often treat them as they would real babies; some psychologists have talked about “reborns” as “transition objects” for people dealing with loss or anxiety. Freud may have argued that all children wish their dolls could come to life, but even so, it’s not socially acceptable for adults to entertain the same desire. If we are creeped out by inanimate things that aren’t human looking too human, we may also be creeped out by adult humans pretending that these inanimate things are real.“We’re creeped out by people who have these kinds of hobbies and occupations because right away, we jump to the conclusion, ‘What kind of person would willingly surround themselves with… humanlike things that are not human?’” says McAndrew, who also noted that he and Koehnke’s survey on creepiness found that most people think that creepy people don’t realize they’re creepy. “We’re on our guard to those types of people because they’re out of the ordinary.”It’s also exactly the kind of thing easy to exploit in media. Some doll makers blame Hollywood films for the creepy doll stigma, and there’s no doubt that moviemakers have used dolls to great effect. But the doll was creepy well before Hollywood came calling. In the 18th and 19th centuries, as dolls became more realistic and as their brethren, the automata, performed more dexterous feats, artists and writers began exploring the horror of that almost immediately. The tales of German writer E.T.A Hoffman are widely seen as the beginning of the creepy automaton/doll genre; Jentsch and Freud used Hoffman’s “The Sandman,” as a case study in the uncanny. The story, published in 1816, involves a traumatized young man who discovers that the object of his affection is in fact a clever wind-up doll, the work of a sinister alchemist who may or may not have murdered the young man’s father; it drives him mad. The horror in this story turned on the deceptive attractiveness of the girl, rather than any innate murderousness in her; for the 19th century, creepy dolls stories tended to be about the malevolence of the maker than the doll itself.In the 20th century, creepy dolls became more actively homicidal, as motion picture technology transformed the safely inanimate into the dangerously animate. Some evil dolls still had an evil human behind them: Dracula director Tod Browning’s 1936 The Devil-Doll featured Lionel Barrymore as man wrongly convicted of murder who turns two living humans into doll-sized assassins to wreak his revenge on the men who framed him. But then there was The Twilight Zone’s murderous Talky Tina, inspired by one of the most popular and influential dolls of the 20thcentury, Chatty Cathy – “My name is Talky Tina and you’d better be nice to me!”; the evil clown doll from Poltergeist, cannily marrying two creepy memes for maximum terror; and of course, Chucky, the My Buddy clone possessed by the soul of a serial killer in the Child’s Play series. The 1980s and 1990s saw dozens of B-movie variations on the homicidal doll theme: Dolly Dearest, Demonic Toys, Blood Dolls. In 2005, the evil denizens of the Doll Graveyard came back for teenaged souls (and eyeballs, it appears); in 2007, homicidal ventriloquist dummies were going around ripping people’s tongues out in Dead Silence.Most recently, devil worshippers inadvertently turned a smiling vintage doll into a grinning demon in last October’s Annabelle, a film in the Conjuring franchise. Director John Leonetti, who did not return requests for comment, told The Huffington Post that dolls made exceptional vehicles for horror films. “If you think about them, most dolls are emulating a human figure,” said Leonetti. “But they’re missing one big thing, which is emotion. So they’re shells. It’s a natural psychological and justifiable vehicle for demons to take it over. If you look at a doll in its eyes, it just stares. That’s creepy. They’re hollow inside. That space needs to be filled.” With evil.image:image:image:image: https://thumbs-prod.si-cdn.com/1BkMAAOUn3JlMULNMu0KXGaMkss=/fit-in/1072x0/https://public-media.si-cdn.com/filer/83/d1/83d1f1d2-9015-484e-b8c7-bb0401ff78ce/my-buddy-doll-creepy-doll-web-resize.jpgThe soul of a serial killer possesses a My Buddy doll in the Child’s Play horror film series. (Courtesy of Flickr user Kendrick Shackleford)But the story of Annabelle the demonic doll, however, becomes far creepier – and more titillating – when it’s accompanied by the claim that it’s “based on a true story”. Paranormal investigators Ed and Lorraine Warren claimed that Annabelle the Raggedy Ann doll, whose original owners frequently found her in places they hadn’t left her, was being used by a demonic spirit in its quest to possess a human soul; she now lives in a specially-made demon-proof case marked “Warning: Positively Do Not Open” at the Warren’s Occult Museum in Connecticut. Annabelle is not the only evil doll the museum alleges it houses, and there are many more such purportedly real-life possessed dolls around the world; as NPR reported in March, “Haunted dolls are a thing”. Robert the Doll, the lifelong companion of an eccentric Key West artist, glowers at people from the East Martello Museum, where he’s become a tiny, haunted cottage industry unto himself; you can even buy your own replica Robert doll to blame things on. If you are unable to visit a haunted or possessed doll in the flesh (or porcelain, as the case may be), then you can always watch a live feed of this rural Pennsylvania family’s haunted doll collection. These stories, like the stories of real live clowns who murdered, feed into a narrative that makes dolls scary.It doesn’t appear that the creepy stigma increasingly attached to dolls, nor the bevy of scary doll films, has done anything to really harm sales of dolls in the US. While sales of dolls in 2014 were lower than they had been 10 years earlier, the figures were still in the billions of dollars – $2.32 billion to be exact, outstripping sales of vehicular toys, action figures, arts and crafts, and plush toys, and second only to outdoors and sports toys sales. it hasn’t put a damper on the secondhand and collectible doll market, where handmade porcelain dolls regularly fetch in the thousands of dollars. In September 2014, a rare Kämmer & Reinhardt doll from the early 1900s was auctioned off for an unbelievable £242,500 ($395,750); the report suggested the buyer not see Annabelle, which was due to be released soon after.The creepiness of dolls sometimes adds to their appeal; some doll makers are actively courting creepy, such as this reborn artist who sells “monster” babies alongside regular babies, or the popular and scary Living Dead Dolls line. Because the fact is, people like creepy. The same mechanism that makes us hyper-vigilant also keeps us interested: “We’re fascinated and enthralled and little on edge because we don’t know what comes next, but we’re not in any way paralyzed by it,” muses Hogan. “We’re more drawn into it, which I think it’s that drawing in or almost being the under spell of wanting to find out what comes next is what good storytellers exploit.”And, maybe, good doll makers, too?