Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) - (508) 831-5000

WPI was founded in 1865 to create and convey the latest science and engineering knowledge in ways that are most beneficial to society.

WPI was founded just after the Civil War, a time when America was on the brink of a great period of industrial growth and technological innovation. Its founders wanted to create a new kind of university to help prepare a new professional class of engineers, scientists and entrepreneurs to fuel this new era. They had different ideas about how best to educate technological professionals, and in merging their visions, a new, influential model of higher education emerged.

In this model, students not only learned the fundamentals of science and engineering, but also had opportunities to apply them by solving real-world problems. The model remains the core of WPI's distinctiveness and is at the heart of its pioneering approach to undergraduate education. The university's innovative approach to education has produced several generations of men and women who have used their knowledge and skills to make the world a better place.

Project activity is an integral part of the WPI educational experience. The Major Qualifying Project (MQP) reflects the student’s major field of study. The Interactive Qualifying Project (IQP) relates technology and science to society or human needs. Students can also make a difference worldwide through the Global Perspectives program.

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