School Details

The Rensselaer School was established in 1824 by Stephen Van Rensselaer “for the purpose of instructing persons … in the application of science to the common purposes of life” (Van Rensselaer to Blatchford, 1824). It is “…the first school of science and school of civil engineering, which has had a continuous existence, to be established in any English-speaking country” – Palmer C. Ricketts. In 1833, the school became the Rensselaer Institute, and in the 1850s, its purpose was broadened to become a polytechnic institution. The name was changed to the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in 1861.

At Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, the nation’s oldest and one of the world’s most renowned technological research universities, students, faculty, and alumni have been defining the scientific and technological advances of this world for over 200 years. Join a legacy of changemakers confronting the most pressing problems facing humanity and the planet.

Why Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI)

Academics: As a pioneer in applied education, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is world-renowned for the creativity and effectiveness of its pedagogy. With over 50 graduate programs to choose from, students gain in-depth knowledge in their fields through hands-on learning, laboratory experiences, and multidisciplinary opportunities.

Student Life: As the center of student life since 1890, the Rensselaer Union boasts over 200 clubs and organizations, giving students endless opportunities to dive into fun activities outside the classroom. These opportunities bring a vibrant, dynamic energy to academic life, making the Student Experience a key part of the Rensselaer journey!

Research Facilities: Among the most advanced research facilities in the nation, the Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies supports 11 state-of-the-art Research Core Facilities that are available to all Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute faculty, staff and students. RPI also houses other world-class hubs like the Center for Computational Innovations (CCI), Center for Materials, Devices, and Integrated Systems, Curtis R. Priem Experimental Media and Performing Arts Center (EMPAC), etc.