Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Dr. Shirley A. Jackson, President
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute often referred to simply as Rensselaer or by its acronym RPI, first opened its doors in 1824 as the first technological university “in the English-speaking world.” Yes, even in 1824 the idea of technology existed.
It’s original mission – “instructing persons … in the application of science to the common purposes of life.”
It is reported to be the first school of science and school of civil engineering, which has had a continuous existence, to be established in any English-speaking country according to Palmer C. Ricketts in his preface to the second edition of his History of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (1914).
In 1833 the school became the Rensselaer Institute, and in the 1850s its purpose was broadened to become a polytechnic institution. The Institute’s name was changed in 1861 to Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.
Located on a beautiful campus in upstate Troy, New York, Rensselaer is considered among the best technical and scientific schools on the planet. It’s a little lesser known than schools such as MIT or Union College, but just as competitive and with similar achievements and accomplishments by a long line of illustrious alumni.
According to Rensselaer, their graduates include individuals responsible for masterminding the first landing on the moon; the building of the Brooklyn Bridge; and numerous other creations including inventing email, helping to develop sunscreen and the invention of the first silicon transistor and creating Guitar Hero III.
Rensselaer is a school that prides itself on boldness and creativity when it comes to pursuing technology and science. Here technology is far from mundane and presented, discussed and dissected in an exciting and aggressive manner.
Recently as evidence of their approach to science and technology, Rensselaer was awarded a major grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to help New York State improve the way it teaches Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) subjects to students.
Beginning in June, Rensselaer will initiate a “progressive dialogue” with school, business, government and other leaders designed to increase the number of students from low-income and culturally diverse backgrounds who study STEM subjects.
For more information visit their site at: www.rpi.edu
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute Quick Facts:
(The Undergraduate Class of 2012)
*Percentage of students who were Rensselaer Medalists: 18%
*Percentage of students in top 10% of high school class: 64%
*SAT 50th Percentile: 1250-1420
*Average high school GPA: A-/B+
Degrees (2007-2008)
*Bachelor’s: 1,143
*Master’s: 672
(Troy and Distance 384, Hartford 288)
*Doctorates: 158
Total: 1,973