Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
- Academics

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Student Author OverviewWhat's This?

Students have mixed opinions about the classes at RPI. Most agree that the professors are, as a whole, very smart. However, their ability to communicate that knowledge to students is variable. Some are excellent in relating to students, while others can barely speak fluent English. Another claim against professors is that they are too concerned with researching and getting published to put the time and effort into doing a good job teaching.

Your best bet is to talk to an upperclassman who has taken classes with professors before, and find out who is good and who to avoid. A student’s interest in the subject also plays a huge role in deciding how much he or she will enjoy and take from a class. Pick a major that you’re going to enjoy, but also pick one that you’ve got a good feeling about—again, talk to other students in the programs, because your major will make a huge difference. RPI is a demanding school, and students here are expected to do a lot of work, both inside and outside the classroom. If you are not truly avid about your field of study, you may find it hard to keep yourself motivated to get all your work done.

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Academics at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

urbonh

Physics '14

2.7

C+

It's Alright

RPI's curriculum is a monstrous hybrid between tough grading and incompetent professors. It's mandatory to live on campus with a meal plan for 2 years because of RPI's "CLASS Initiative," but regardless of the Institute's iron fist clamped around you (especially if you're like me and you can barely afford the school in the first place), it's still better than high school.

Upsides include a wide variety of classes in interesting subjects, and being able to retreat to clubs and groups for all interests with nice people in the same boat as you.

Mar 24, 2012

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Academics at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

darjakk

Psychology '15

4.6

A

Well Respected Easy to Learn

It is a well respected school and in most courses it is a good learning environment

Feb 28, 2012

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Academics at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Xander31415

Physics '15

4.6

A

RPI

This is a tough college. I would recomend going there only if you are very intrested in your major, because the classes are chalengening. However the college also has some great tutoring and extra help programs available for free.

Jan 08, 2012

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Photos of Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute's Academics

Historic '86 Field

Photo by JRW0416

Historic '86 Field Built in 1912 by donations from the class of 1886, the '86 Field hosted football games until 2008. Its future is currently in debate.

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Photo by JRW0416

Troy Building

Photo by JRW0416

Troy Building Office of the President located inside. Do NOT attempt to get to this space without official diplomatic papers or equivalent.

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Photo by JRW0416

CBIS (Biotech)

Photo by JRW0416

CBIS (Biotech) This structure was built in 2004. It houses the Center for Biotechnology and Interdisciplinary Studies.

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Photo by JRW0416

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