How does SDSU's Engineering overall ranking hold up?

Looking at San Diego State for engineering, not sure about my specialization yet. How does the engineering program as a whole stack up against other schools? Are they known for their engineering department?

San Diego State University (SDSU) does not have the same level of nationwide recognition for its engineering programs that many top-tier universities, such as MIT or Stanford, might have. For example, in 2024 U.S. News & World Report ranked SDSU as #175 in best engineering schools. That being said, it is recognized as having high-quality engineering programs in certain areas, with great faculty and research opportunities.

SDSU's engineering specializations are ranked quite well regionally, especially in Civil and Construction Engineering. Moreover, they have a strong mentorship and career-service program for their engineering students which help them secure good internships and job placements after graduation.

Be assured that picking the 'right' school for engineering isn't just about attending the highest-ranked program. Factors such as what kind of engineering you're interested in, potential research opportunities, the size of the school, location, and even the culture can make a huge difference in your experience and career trajectory.

Location-wise, studying in San Diego has benefits as the region has recently seen growth in tech industries, which is a positive factor for placement and internships. Ultimately, what you make of the opportunities available to you during your time in college can have a substantive impact on your career in engineering, regardless of the ranking of your school's engineering department.

In conclusion, SDSU has strong engineering programs that are well-regarded, especially locally and regionally. But remember, the overall fit and your personal and academic development matters a lot too. So if SDSU feels right for you, its ranking shouldn't deter you from pursuing your education there.