When I hear that word, I wonder what type of research you’ve done. For example, WPI is project based. I believe Louisville and Cal Poly SLO are as well.
Why not speak to an engineering advisor contact or student ambassador and ask.
Don’t assume that more academically accomplished students = more hands on, more interesting classes or anything else. Look at the requirements in the catalog (engineering classes will be common across most campuses), look at minors or focus areas…and talk to others.
NEU has co ops so you’re likely to get work experience but at other schools you can co op and/or intern.
I don’t see a common data set - to see the transfer acceptance rate.
Good luck.