School of Engineering

About the school

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's (RPI) School of Engineering, established nearly two centuries ago, boasts a rich history of innovation and education. It is renowned for simultaneously being the oldest technological school in the United States and a modern leader in technology education.

The school is dedicated to addressing global challenges, including human health, sustainability, energy, and infrastructure resilience. It offers undergraduate and graduate programmes across seven departments, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among students and faculty. The curriculum emphasises a holistic education, combining science, engineering, humanities, arts, and social sciences. Experiential learning, innovation, entrepreneurship, and technology integration are core aspects of education.

Where is the school located?

The school is located in Troy, New York, atop a 275-acre hill overlooking the Hudson River. It is in the heart of upstate New York's Tech Valley, making it an ideal location for technological and scientific education and research.

Life at the School of Engineering

Life at the School of Engineering at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) is marked by a vibrant and intellectually stimulating environment. As one of the oldest technological institutions in the United States, RPI combines a rich history with a forward-looking approach to education. Students here benefit from an exceptional academic experience, with access to state-of-the-art laboratories, accomplished faculty members, and a rigorous curriculum that equips them with the knowledge and skills needed to tackle the most pressing global challenges. RPI is committed to interdisciplinary collaboration, fostering an environment where students from diverse backgrounds come together to solve complex, real-world problems, mirroring the complexities they will face in their future careers.

RPI's School of Engineering prides itself on its inclusive and diverse community. Students from across the United States and worldwide bring various perspectives and experiences. This diversity enriches the educational journey and promotes cross-cultural understanding—a vital engineering aspect in today's interconnected world. Beyond academics, students engage in co-curricular activities, embrace an entrepreneurial spirit, and participate in groundbreaking research. Whether working on innovative projects, positively impacting the community, or preparing for successful careers, life at RPI's School of Engineering is a transformative experience that shapes future engineering leaders and innovators.

Additional benefits of studying at the School of Engineering

• Research-focused Curriculum: The School of Engineering offers a comprehensive educational experience with a strong focus on interdisciplinary collaboration, hands-on learning, and effective communication skills. Students engage in practical laboratory work, multidisciplinary design projects, and technical writing, equipping them with the ability to convey complex ideas effectively. This emphasis on innovation and creative thinking fosters a mindset conducive to addressing contemporary challenges.

• Collaborative Learning: Graduates are well-prepared for teamwork in diverse settings, which is crucial in the workplace. The curriculum extends beyond technical expertise, providing exposure to humanities and social sciences, ensuring a well-rounded education.

• Ethical Engineering Practices: Core values instilled in students are ethical engineering and a commitment to social responsibility. The learning environment promotes a love for lifelong learning and adaptation to evolving technologies.

• Industry-related Exposure: Graduates benefit from a strong alumni network, offering valuable connections and opportunities for career advancement. Additionally, research opportunities enable students to contribute to cutting-edge projects in their chosen fields, preparing them for research-oriented careers.

Admissions criteria

There are several key requirements for U.S. students seeking admission to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's School of Engineering. These requirements ensure that students are prepared for the rigorous academic challenges and innovative learning experiences that await them:

• A strong academic foundation in mathematics, science, and engineering fundamentals.
• Demonstrated ability to solve real-world problems.
• Specialised technical knowledge in their chosen field.
• Effective communication skills, both technical writing and interpersonal communication.
• A knack for innovative design and creative problem-solving.
• The capacity to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams.
• An appreciation for a well-rounded education encompassing humanities and social sciences.
• A commitment to ethical engineering practices and social responsibility.
• Motivation to learn and contribute in a stimulating academic environment.

International Students:

International students interested in joining Rensselaer's School of Engineering will find that the institute's admission requirements are designed to welcome a diverse and talented pool of applicants worldwide. While some requirements may overlap with those for U.S. students, international applicants should also consider the following:

• Proficiency in English, typically demonstrated through standardised tests like TOEFL or IELTS.
• Visa and immigration documentation to study in the United States.
• Proof of financial capability to cover tuition and living expenses.
• Evaluation of academic credentials from international institutions.
• Cultural adaptability and a commitment to cultural exchange.

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute welcomes talented students from diverse backgrounds and seeks to provide them with a world-class education in engineering. Whether U.S. or international, applicants should thoroughly review the institute's specific admission requirements and guidelines to ensure a successful application process.

Job placements

• Extensive Career Support: The Center for Career and Professional Development (CCPD) at Rensselaer is pivotal in preparing students for success in a technologically driven global economy.

• Rensselaer's CCPD prepares students for success in a tech-driven global economy.

• CCPD offers programmes to help students define their career paths and gain essential skills.

• The centre builds partnerships with students, faculty, alums, and employers.

• CCPD continually improves customer services to support students' career journeys.

• It empowers students to become future leaders ready for evolving job markets.

• CCPD focuses on career management and development to enhance employability.

• The centre connects students with employers for successful job placements.

• CCPD equips students with career decisions and goals through resources and events.

• CCPD's commitment reflects Rensselaer's dedication to graduates' career success.

• It enhances Rensselaer's reputation for prioritising graduates' professional growth.