Most people might know the University of New Haven for the Henry C. Lee Institute of Forensic Science, but the Tagliatela College of Engineering is taking over the scoreboard.

The Tagliatela College of Engineering has been ranked, for the second year in a row, as one of the top nationwide undergraduate engineering programs. This ranking was released in the 2013 edition of U.S. News & World Report’s “America’s Best Colleges.”

This distinction is an indication of the dedication of our faculty and the success of our students,” says Ron Harichandran, Dean of the Tagliatela College of Engineering. “Our professors are dedicated to providing real-world opportunities for our students and our students display the commitment and work ethic to take full advantage of the many outstanding educational, research and internship opportunities they receive here at the University of New Haven.”

The rankings are split into two categories: institutions whose highest engineering degree offered are a bachelor’s or master’s degree and those whose highest degree offered are a doctorate. The rankings are based on surveys of engineering deans and senior faculty members, and are accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology.

UNH was ranked in the first category among institutions that only offer bachelors and master’s degrees in engineering.

UNH’s engineering program emphasizes internships and research experiences and students regularly gain experience at companies such as Sikorsky, Covidien, Pioneer Aerospace, General Electric and others. Tyler Valalik, a student in the Tagliatela College of Engineering said, “The program works so well because students are forced to work and learn through struggle. My classes are challenging, but I get satisfaction when I finish all my assignments well. I strive to be a part of the world’s enhancement of technology.”

A wave of the college’s vast success has been felt by many, and to ensure the success continues, the Davis Educational Foundation has donated a $185,500 three-year grant to the Tagliatela College of Engineering this year to help engineering students improve their writing and communication skills.