Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute is the oldest technological university in the English-speaking world, founded in Troy, New York, in 1824. Its strong programs in engineering, computer science, and the sciences, combined with cutting-edge research in nanotechnology and biotechnology, have made it a leader in technological innovation for two centuries.
Mascot: Engineer
Notable Alumni
George Ferris (inventor of the Ferris wheel)•Bobby Farrelly (filmmaker, Dumb and Dumber)•Raymond Tomlinson (inventor of email)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
RPI is a place where studying feels like a full-time job and the social highlight of the year is hockey — the 'build things with friends' culture is genuine but won't win any party school awards. Greek life still anchors much of the weekend social scene in Troy, though participation has been declining. The gender ratio (historically skewed male) shapes the social dynamics, and students bond more over project teams and hackathons than nightlife.
A hillside campus in Troy overlooking the Hudson Valley with a blend of historic 19th-century stone buildings and modern facilities like the EMPAC performing arts center. The hilltop setting provides nice views, though the steep terrain and architectural mix limit cohesion.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
The hilltop campus has 24-hour security with electronically controlled dorm entrances, shuttle service, and escort programs.
Troy has above-average crime rates for a small city. Crime varies by neighborhood, with areas near downtown seeing more incidents than the hilltop campus area.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Weekdays during the academic year; open houses on select dates
Duration: ~60-90 minutes (info session + student-led walking tour)
Tours depart from the Fitzroy Admissions Building, 2 Eaton Road, Troy, NY. Check your confirmation email for parking and location details. Check for weather updates day-of — RPI cancels tours for inclement weather.
Book a TourA self-guided tour is available through PocketSights, covering the 275-acre hilltop campus overlooking Troy and the Hudson River. A virtual tour is also available online.
Tour ResourcesSeptember through October for mild weather and peak fall foliage in the Hudson Valley, or April through May when campus is green and hockey season may still be running. The Big Red Freakout (homecoming) in October is worth timing around. Avoid late December through January (winter break) and be warned — Troy winters are harsh (heavy snow, sub-zero temps).
Admissions visitor lot on Eaton Road behind the Admissions building (corner of Sage Ave and Eaton Rd). Guest parking permits available at rpi.aimsparking.com. Additional lot after driving under the 15th Street footbridge (immediate left). Albany International Airport (ALB) is 20 minutes away; taxi from airport ~$30-35, Uber/Lyft also available. Amtrak serves Rensselaer station across the Hudson River (connected by road, ~10 min drive).
Location
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