Rensselaer is a diverse community of dreamers and doers who share several characteristics. They are drawn to the sciences and technology, and to disciplines ranging from architecture and business to literature. They love to tackle complex problems, and they have a sincere desire to improve the world.

Yet the people of Rensselaer are true individuals: everyone who comes here seeks a pathway to greatness that is uniquely his or her own.

Bold Exploration

When you come to study at Rensselaer, you will benefit from a proud legacy of bold exploration. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute was established in 1824 as the first technological university in the English-speaking world.

The Institute was organized around a concept considered quite radical for the time: that students should actively engage with their studies by performing experiments and exploring other participatory forms of learning, rather than sitting passively in lectures.

Become a Pioneer

As a Rensselaer student, you will walk in the footsteps of pioneers—and become one.

You will enjoy access to world-class research facilities, and work alongside exceptionally talented researchers on challenges that range from eradicating cholera to combating global climate change.

Whether you study mechanical engineering or music, bioinformatics or business, Rensselaer is a paradise for people who yearn to fulfill their dreams, and improve the world in the process.