Research the program, faculty and former students online. Most programs have websites that list all current professors and describe the program’s objectives. You should look to see if professors have experience in commercial engineering or just academia. Their awareness of either field will be important when you are trying to establish contacts and get a position in the field.
Find annual rankings provided by U.S. News & World Report. These annual rankings are available in regional, national and specialty lists. Although the criterion for ranking has been questioned, these rankings are still widely accepted in professional fields and can give some frame of reference.
Contact alumni or other individuals that have experience with the program. Ask a range of questions regarding the faculty, funding concerns, and the intellectual freedom given to students.
Call the admissions staff at the engineering college. Find out what the admission criterion is and if you qualify. Of course, there are separate processes for undergraduate and graduate students.
Arrange a visit to each college. Make appointments to meet with admissions staff and department faculty, in order to ask questions and get a sense of personality. Do not take it personally if professors are unwilling to meet with you as a prospective student. Though it might mean they are not easily accessible to current students, it could also mean it is a busy time of the year, or they simply have many commitments.
Visit the campuses. Observe available lab and work space and resources for undergraduate and graduate engineering students. Meet with any staff or faculty with whom you have scheduled an appointment. Take notice of how the campus is laid out, too. Seemingly minor problems with parking and housing might negatively affect your time at the college and keep you from reaching your potential.