WPI History
Worcester Polytechnic Institute is a university like no other. From our founding days, we've taken a different approach to technological education. Founded in 1865, as America emerged from the Civil War and prepared for an amazing period of technological innovation, the university embodied a bold new model of education, one that balanced learning with application. We are the third oldest technological university in the country.
A Pioneer in Education
WPI's approach to education influenced the founders of other early technological universities. In 1970, WPI revolutionized technological education again when it introduced a project-based curriculum that has stood the test of time and is still at the heart of our approach to education today. (All students complete three projects: a humanities and arts project, an interactive project and a major project.)
Today, the university continues to be model for change in higher education. Its pioneering outcomes-based approach to undergraduate education has been widely recognized – by institutions like the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) – as a uniquely effective method for preparing young men and women for success in life and work.
The University of Science and Technology. And Life.
We believe that the best way to learn is by doing. Our students get a firm grounding in science and technology. Then they learn to apply their knowledge by tackling real problems. Working in teams, at sites around the globe, they develop solutions that truly make a difference.
Theory and practice. Technological solutions that make the world better. A curriculum that prepares students exquisitely well for life and work in our technological world. That's WPI's heritage, and it's what sets us apart from other colleges and universities.
Maintained by webmaster@wpi.eduLast modified: November 10, 2006 11:31:28