Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Founded in Worcester, Mass., in 1865, WPI was one of the nation's earliest technological universities. From our founding days, we've taken a unique approach to science and technology education.

Where science and technology meet real-world problems

We believe that students should understand how to apply knowledge – not just how to cite facts and theories. Our undergraduates and graduate students emerge ready to take on some of the most difficult challenges in science and technology. More important, they understand how their work can truly impact society and improve our lives.

Outstanding academics, faculty and research programs

WPI's academic departments offer more than 50 undergraduate and graduate degree programs in science, engineering, technology, management, the social sciences, and the humanities and arts, leading to the BA, BS, MS, ME, MBA and PhD. Our world-class faculty work with students in a number of cutting-edge research areas, leading to breakthroughs and innovations in such fields as biotechnology, fuel cells, nanotechnology, and information security. Students also have the opportunity to make a difference to communities and organizations around the world through our innovative Global Perspectives program. There are over 20 WPI project centers throughout North America and Central America, Africa, Australia, Asia, and Europe.

A highly regarded institution

WPI is ranked No. 64 among all national, doctoral universities by U.S. News & World Report; No. 1 for student/faculty interaction in the National Survey of Student Engagement; and No. 9 by The Princeton Review for "best career prospects" for graduates of our MBA program. And that's just the beginning of the recognition we've received from a large number of institutions and individuals for our high quality and unique approach to education.

A community of diverse interests

The WPI community is alive with activity. Students participate in nearly 200 extracurricular activities, including music, theatre, and Greek organizations, 20 varsity sports teams, and more than 30 club and intramural sports. There are also fun campus-wide annual events, including Homecoming, Winter Ball, and QuadFest.

A beautiful campus in a central location

WPI's 80-acre traditional, New England campus is set on a secluded hilltop in an area that is home to 13 colleges (and over 35,000 college students). Worcester is an exciting place to be, with several museums, music and theatre performance centers, an arena for concerts and sporting events, and lots of restaurants, entertainment venues, and shopping centers. Commuter rail service offers students easy access to all that Boston has to offer—and it's just an hour away.