Top Tier (Frequently appearing at the very top of various rankings):
* California Institute of Technology (Caltech): Renowned for its strong science and engineering foundation, offering a rigorous and research-focused program.
* Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT): A global leader in engineering and science, with extensive research opportunities and a wide range of specialization options within environmental engineering.
* Stanford University: Another powerhouse in engineering, boasting exceptional faculty, resources, and connections to Silicon Valley's innovative ecosystem.
* University of California, Berkeley (UC Berkeley): A public university with a long-standing tradition of excellence in environmental engineering, strong research capabilities, and a diverse student body.
Highly Ranked (Consistently appear in top 10-20 lists):
* Stanford University: (already mentioned above, deserves a second mention due to its sheer strength)
* University of Michigan - Ann Arbor: Strong research focus, particularly in water resources engineering.
* University of Texas at Austin: A large program with a broad range of specializations and a strong focus on practical applications.
* Cornell University: Excellent faculty and research opportunities in a variety of environmental subfields.
* ETH Zurich (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology): Internationally recognized for its excellence in engineering and science, with a strong focus on sustainability.
* Imperial College London: A leading UK university with a strong reputation in environmental science and engineering.
* Princeton University: While smaller than some others on the list, Princeton offers a highly selective and rigorous program.
* Carnegie Mellon University: Strong in areas like sustainable infrastructure and environmental modeling.
Factors to consider beyond rankings:
* Specific research interests: Look at faculty research profiles and publications to see if their expertise aligns with your interests.
* Location and climate: Consider where you want to live and study.
* Program size and culture: Do you prefer a smaller, more intimate program or a larger one with more resources?
* Career services: How well does the program support students in finding jobs after graduation?
* Funding opportunities (research assistantships, scholarships): These can significantly reduce the cost of education.
It's highly recommended to visit the websites of the programs that interest you, examine their faculty profiles, research projects, and course offerings. Reading student reviews and talking to current students or alumni can also provide valuable insights. Finally, consider what aspects of environmental engineering you are most passionate about — water resources, air quality, waste management, etc. — as different schools may excel in different areas.