Differences between WPI and RPI?

I'm currently trying to decide between Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI). Both seem to have amazing programs, especially in Engineering, but they have slightly different environments and curriculums. Can anyone provide a comparison? Academics, student life, research opportunities, internships... any insight would help.

Both Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) and Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) offer strong engineering programs and ample research opportunities, but they indeed differ in their academic structures and campus environments.

Starting with academics, WPI employs a unique 7-week term system, called the quarter system, where students typically take three courses each term. This intensive format allows for deep focus on each subject but can be quite fast-paced. A hallmark of WPI's curriculum is the project-based learning approach. The Major Qualifying Project allows students to tackle real-world problems within their major. Plus, the Interactive Qualifying Project has students address problems that lie at the intersection of science, technology, social issues, and human needs.

RPI, on the other hand, uses a traditional semester system and academic structure, providing a more conventional college experience. Rensselaer has mandatory "co-term" internships/co-ops for some majors, which can provide excellent practical experience and benefit future job searches. Rensselaer's highly-regarded Co-op Program offers students the opportunity to put their classroom skills to work and explore their career paths before graduation. Students can choose to work for large corporations or help start-ups get off the ground. A Co-op is a full-time, paid experience related to a student’s major/field of study that lasts a minimum of six months and upwards of eight months.

On the student life front, WPI is often praised for its collaborative and flexible atmosphere, and its location in Worcester offers a fair amount of off-campus dining and recreational opportunities. The campus community is quite tight-knit, with a noticeable emphasis on teamwork.

RPI, located in Troy, New York, provides a different feel. Troy has a small-town vibe, but Albany (the state's capital) is close by for those seeking more to explore. RPI has a larger student body, so there can be more diversity in student activities and organizations.

In terms of research opportunities, both schools stress their commitment to research, whether through school-funded projects or partnerships with local industries. However, due to the project-focused curriculum at WPI, students might find more built-in opportunities to participate in research projects. RPI also has notable research initiatives, particularly in the fields of nanotechnology and biotechnology.

So, in choosing between the two, you might want to consider whether you prefer a project-based, intensive learning experience (WPI) or a more traditional academic structure with co-op/internship emphasis (RPI) and whether you want a city vibe (Worcester/WPI) or access to a quieter, small-town environment (Troy/RPI). Consider visiting the campuses if possible, as the 'feel' of a campus can often influence your decision.