RPI vs RIT: Best Engineering School?

Hi everybody! I'm a junior starting to look into engineering schools, and I want to know more about the differences between RPI and RIT. Can anyone speak to the quality of the engineering programs, campus life, and potential internship opportunities? Thanks a bunch!

Hi there! It's great that you're considering RPI and RIT for engineering. Both schools are known for their strong engineering programs and provide valuable opportunities for their students. Here's a comparison of both schools in terms of their engineering programs, campus life, and internship opportunities:

Engineering Programs:

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) consistently ranks among the top engineering schools in the United States and is highly regarded for its Engineering programs, particularly in areas such as Aerospace, Mechanical, and Electrical Engineering. The curriculum at RPI is rigorous and research-focused, which can lead to a strong foundation in engineering principles and innovation.

Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) is also well-regarded for its engineering programs, notably in areas like Biomedical, Chemical, and Industrial Engineering. The coursework at RIT tends to be more application-oriented, placing emphasis on hands-on experiences for students.

Campus Life:

RPI is located in Troy, New York, which is a small urban setting with a focus on research and technology. The campus life tends to lean towards the quiet and academic side, but there are plenty of student organizations and clubs to get involved in.

In contrast, RIT is located in a suburban setting near Rochester, New York, offering a bit more in terms of off-campus activities. The campus life at RIT is more diverse, with a vibrant student population and an array of clubs, organizations, and events.

Internship Opportunities:

Both RPI and RIT are known for having strong career services and providing various internship and co-op opportunities for their engineering students. RPI's location near the tech corridor in the Albany area presents many opportunities for students to intern at companies such as IBM, GE, and Lockheed Martin. RIT similarly has strong connections with local industries and is known for its mandatory co-op program, which allows students to gain up to two years of hands-on work experience as part of their curriculum.

Ultimately, it depends on what you're looking for in an engineering school. If you prioritize a research-focused curriculum with strong theoretical foundations, RPI might be a better fit for you. On the other hand, if you're looking for more hands-on experiences and a strong emphasis on co-ops and internships, RIT may better suit your needs. Additionally, consider visiting both campuses and talking to current students to get a better sense of their overall culture and fit. Good luck with your decision-making process!