Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Innovate. Engineer. Impact the world.
📍 Worcester, United States 🇺🇸
🏆 #84 in United States · QS World #851 · THE World #601
Quick Facts about Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Founded: 1865
- Type: Private
- Students: 7,353
- International: 14%
- Campus: Suburban
- Tuition: $58,870 – $63,046/year
- Language: English
- Student-Faculty Ratio: 13:1
- Intakes: January, September
About Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Academics
WPI offers over 70 undergraduate and graduate degree programs across 18 academic departments, encompassing science, engineering, technology, business, social sciences, humanities, and arts. Notable programs include Mechanical Engineering, Computer Science, Biomedical Engineering, and Robotics Engineering, the latter being one of the country's first undergraduate robotics programs. The university's teaching approach is centered on project-based learning, which is integrated throughout the curriculum and emphasizes combining theory with practice. WPI has been classified as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," reflecting its commitment to expanding knowledge and fostering innovation.
International Students
The Office of International Student Life (ISL) provides comprehensive support for international students, including assistance with visas and immigration, tax workshops, career help, and temporary housing. WPI is popular among international students, with over 1,000 international students in 2020, representing at least 42 countries. International graduate students alone comprise over one-third of the full-time graduate student population, coming from more than 50 countries. The International Student Council also fosters a sense of community and camaraderie among international students.
Campus & Location
WPI's 80-acre campus is situated in Worcester, Massachusetts, offering a blend of urban and suburban living, approximately an hour from Boston. The campus features a mix of traditional brick buildings and modern facilities, including the Foisie Innovation Studio, designed for collaboration and innovative thinking. Worcester itself is a city with a rich academic and innovation ecosystem, and WPI actively collaborates with the city on community-centered projects. On-campus housing is available, and the student environment is energetic, with numerous clubs and organizations.
Career Outcomes
WPI graduates consistently demonstrate strong employment outcomes, with a 92.7% overall success rate (employment, graduate school, military, or volunteer work) for all degree types in 2020. The university's career services are highly regarded, offering networking opportunities, counseling, and resources. WPI's project-based learning equips students with practical skills, making them attractive to employers in various industries such as engineering, technology, healthcare, finance, and consulting. The average starting salary for bachelor's graduates in 2020 was $72,951, with Computer Science, Interactive Media and Game Development, and Robotics Engineering graduates earning some of the highest starting salaries. WPI also fosters a strong startup culture, with an Innovation & Entrepreneurship Center supporting students in developing their ideas into marketable products and companies.
Information for International Students at Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Worcester Polytechnic Institute in Worcester, United States welcomes international students, with 14% of the student body coming from abroad.
- 14% of students are international
- Visa support available
- No on-campus work
- Student housing available
- Work placement / internship opportunities available
- Teaching languages: English
Admissions Requirements for Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Here are the key admission requirements for international students applying to Worcester Polytechnic Institute:
- IELTS minimum: 6.5
- TOEFL minimum: 84
- Duolingo minimum: 115
- GPA minimum: 3
- Application fee: $70
- Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%)
- Application deadline: Rolling (priority for Fall: January 1, for Spring: October 1)
Programs at Worcester Polytechnic Institute (22 programs)
Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers 22 programs across Bachelor, Master, PhD levels.
Bachelor Programs (7)
- Civil Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $58,880/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the design, construction, and maintenance of infrastructure projects, including buildings, bridges, and transportation systems.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Civil Engineer, Structural Engineer, Construction Manager - Robotics Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $58,880/yr · STEM
Students gain expertise in the design, construction, operation, and application of robots, integrating knowledge from mechanical, electrical, and computer engineering.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Robotics Engineer, Automation Engineer, AI Developer - Aerospace Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $58,880/yr · STEM
This program provides students with a strong foundation in the principles of flight, propulsion, and spacecraft design, preparing them for careers in the aerospace industry.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Aerospace Engineer, Aircraft Designer, Spacecraft Engineer - Chemical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $58,880/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the design and operation of chemical processes, covering topics from materials science to environmental engineering.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Chemical Engineer, Process Engineer, Materials Scientist - Biomedical Engineering (BSc) — 48 months · English · $58,880/yr · STEM
Students learn to apply engineering principles to solve problems in biology and medicine, developing innovative solutions for healthcare challenges.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Biomedical Engineer, Medical Device Developer, Clinical Engineer - Applied Mathematics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $58,880/yr · STEM
This program focuses on using mathematical tools and techniques to solve real-world problems in science, engineering, and business.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Mathematician, Data Analyst, Quantitative Analyst - Physics (BSc) — 48 months · English · $58,880/yr · STEM
Students explore the fundamental laws of the universe, from quantum mechanics to astrophysics, developing strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Field: Physics
Career outcomes: Physicist, Research Scientist, Engineer
Master Programs (11)
- Business Administration (MBA) — 21 months · English · $45,000/yr
This program develops leadership and management skills, integrating business theory with practical applications, often with a focus on technology and innovation.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur - Business Administration (MBA) — 21 months · English · $45,000/yr
This program develops leadership and management skills, integrating business theory with practical applications, often with a focus on technology and innovation.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Consultant, Entrepreneur - Systems Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $35,000/yr · STEM
This program focuses on the interdisciplinary approach to designing, integrating, and managing complex systems over their life cycles, from concept to operation.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Systems Engineer, Project Manager, Technical Lead - Management (MBA) — 24 months · English · $45,000/yr
This MBA program develops leadership and management skills, integrating business principles with technological innovation to prepare graduates for executive roles in various industries.
Field: Business
Career outcomes: Business Manager, Project Manager, Consultant - Mechanical Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
Advanced study in mechanical engineering principles, including design, manufacturing, and thermal-fluid sciences, with opportunities for specialization.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Mechanical Engineer, Product Design Engineer, Research and Development Engineer - Data Science (MSc) — 24 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
This program equips students with advanced analytical and computational skills to extract insights from complex data, preparing them for roles in data-driven industries.
Field: Data Science
Career outcomes: Data Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst - Environmental Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
Students learn to address complex environmental challenges through engineering solutions, focusing on water resources, air quality, and sustainable systems.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Environmental Engineer, Sustainability Consultant, Water Resource Manager - Financial Mathematics (MSc) — 24 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
This program combines advanced mathematics, statistics, and computer science with financial theory to solve complex problems in the financial industry.
Field: Mathematics
Career outcomes: Quantitative Analyst, Risk Manager, Financial Engineer - Industrial Engineering (MSc) — 24 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
Students learn to optimize complex systems, processes, and organizations, improving efficiency and productivity in various industries.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: Industrial Engineer, Operations Manager, Supply Chain Analyst - Biotechnology (MSc) — 24 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
Students gain advanced knowledge in molecular biology, genetics, and biochemical engineering to develop innovative solutions in medicine, agriculture, and industry.
Field: Biotechnology
Career outcomes: Biotechnologist, Research Scientist, Pharmaceutical Scientist - Management Information Systems (MSc) — 24 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
This program combines business knowledge with information technology skills, preparing students to manage and leverage information systems for organizational success.
Field: Information Systems
Career outcomes: IT Consultant, Systems Analyst, Project Manager
PhD Programs (4)
- Materials Science and Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
This program involves advanced research into the synthesis, structure, properties, and performance of materials, leading to innovations in various industries.
Field: Materials Science
Career outcomes: Materials Scientist, Research Engineer, Academic Researcher - Computer Science (PhD) — 60 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
Doctoral research in advanced computer science topics, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and theoretical computer science, contributing to fundamental knowledge.
Field: Computer Science
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Lead Software Architect - Electrical and Computer Engineering (PhD) — 60 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
Doctoral research in areas such as signal processing, power systems, computer architecture, and embedded systems, contributing to cutting-edge technological advancements.
Field: Engineering
Career outcomes: University Professor, Research Scientist, Advanced R&D Engineer - System Dynamics (PhD) — 60 months · English · $32,000/yr · STEM
This program focuses on understanding and modeling complex dynamic systems in various fields, using simulation and feedback control principles to address societal challenges.
Field: Systems Engineering
Career outcomes: Systems Analyst, Policy Advisor, Academic Researcher
Scholarships & Tuition at Worcester Polytechnic Institute
Annual tuition for international students: $58,870 – $63,046/year
✅ Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers scholarships for international students. Check the official website for eligibility, amounts, and deadlines.
Rankings of Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- National Ranking: #84 in United States
- QS World University Ranking: #851
- Times Higher Education (THE): #601
- Ranking tier: Research University
- Research output: Very High
Campus & Facilities at Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Student housing available
- Sports facilities available
- Disability support available
- Campus type: Suburban
Key Highlights
- Project-based learning focus
- Engineering and technology emphasis
- R1 Doctoral Research University
- Diverse international student community
- Robotics Engineering pioneer
Accreditation
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- ABET
- American Chemical Society
- AACSB International
Notable Alumni
- Robert H. Goddard
- Robert Stempel
- Harold S. Black
- Dean Kamen
- Michelle Gass
Frequently Asked Questions about Worcester Polytechnic Institute
What is Worcester Polytechnic Institute?
Worcester Polytechnic Institute is a private university located in Worcester, United States, founded in 1865. It has approximately 7,353 students, with 14% being international students.
How much does it cost to study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute?
Tuition fees at Worcester Polytechnic Institute for international students range from $58,870 – $63,046/year. Scholarships are available for international students.
What are the admission requirements for Worcester Polytechnic Institute?
IELTS minimum: 6.5. TOEFL minimum: 84. Duolingo minimum: 115. GPA minimum: 3. Application fee: $70. Selectivity: Moderate (40-60%). Application deadline: Rolling (priority for Fall: January 1, for Spring: October 1).
What language are courses taught in at Worcester Polytechnic Institute?
Courses at Worcester Polytechnic Institute are taught in English. International students need a minimum IELTS score of 6.5.
How many programs does Worcester Polytechnic Institute offer?
Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers 22 programs: 7 Bachelor's, 11 Master's, and 4 PhD programs across various fields of study.
What is Worcester Polytechnic Institute ranked?
#84 in United States · QS World #851 · THE World #601.
Does Worcester Polytechnic Institute offer scholarships?
Yes, Worcester Polytechnic Institute offers scholarships for international students. Visit the university's official financial aid page for current opportunities, eligibility criteria, and deadlines.
Does Worcester Polytechnic Institute provide visa support?
Yes, Worcester Polytechnic Institute provides visa support for international students. Student housing is also available.
Apply to Worcester Polytechnic Institute with Abroadly
Use Abroadly's AI-powered platform to manage your application to Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Get matched to programs, track deadlines, and organize documents — all in one place.