What are the top automotive engineering colleges?

I'm really passionate about cars and I'm thinking about pursuing a degree in automotive engineering. I've heard of a few schools that might have good programs, but I want to make sure I'm looking at the top colleges in this field. Does anyone have recommendations for automotive engineering colleges that are known for their strong programs? Bonus points if you know anything about the job prospects after graduating from these programs!

It sounds like you've got a clear direction for your college journey - that's wonderful to hear! Here are some of the top automotive engineering programs in the U.S. that you may want to consider:

1. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor: This university has a rich history in automotive engineering. Its Mechanical Engineering department offers a concentration in Automotive Engineering, and the university runs the renowned Michigan Mobility Transformation Center, a test site for future mobility technologies.

2. Michigan State University: The Department of Mechanical Engineering offers a focus in automotive engineering where students can work on cutting-edge research in areas such as hybrid power design and testing.

3. Clemson University: Clemson's Department of Automotive Engineering is unique because it's an entirely separate department dedicated only to automotive engineering. They offer both bachelor's and master's degrees in automotive engineering and graduates usually find jobs in the automotive industry or related sectors.

4. Kettering University: With a heavy emphasis on Cooperative education, students at Kettering University gain an impressive amount of hands-on experience in addition to their rigorous academic coursework in automotive engineering.

5. Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI): The motorsports engineering program at IUPUI is unique in covering both the engineering side and the motorsports side, offering classes in aerodynamics, vehicle dynamics, propulsion systems, and even motorsports entrepreneurship!

Job prospects after graduation vary based on many factors, such as location, the specific focus of your degree, and the overall job market. However, a degree in automotive engineering can often lead to roles in areas like product design, development and testing, manufacturing, or performance analysis. Furthermore, the ongoing innovation in areas such as self-driving technology and electric vehicles means there's likely to be a continued high demand for skilled engineers in this field. Final advice would be to definitely take advantage of any internships or co-op programs offered by these schools, as they're an excellent way to gain real-world experience and can often lead to job offers upon graduation.