Graduate Student Experience

A WPI student uses cutting-edge computer technology in a research lab

What’s it like being a graduate student at WPI?

At WPI, you can expect a well-rounded graduate education and student experience that prepares you for the future of work. You’ll elevate your STEM expertise while developing the professional skills that make you stand out.

As a WPI graduate student, you will…

  • Make your degree yours by customizing your plan of study.
  • Gain vital professional experience in the field through internships, co-ops, and corporate partnerships.
  • Immerse yourself in meaningful, impact-driven research.
  • Receive 1:1 support from career counselors, academic advisors, and Student Success managers.
  • Learn how to use your STEM expertise to solve real, urgent problems in the world.
Preview

WPI student in a white lab coat uses high-tech equipment in a materials science lab

RJ Franzen BS, MS '25
RJ Franzen BS, MS '25
BS in Chemical Engineering; MS in Chemical Engineering with a concentration in Advanced Process Engineering

Active fraternity member RJ seeks to make a difference in the community while applying his skills learned inside and outside the classroom. [...]

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Get a Transformative STEM Education

Whether you’re on a thesis or non-thesis track, you’ll gain lots of practice collaborating with peers and faculty from different disciplines. This will prepare you to solve problems from multiple perspectives and be an effective team member in your future workplace on day one.

Take Graduate Courses Online Without Sacrificing Quality

When you enroll in an online graduate program at WPI, you’ll receive the same prestigious education that you would receive on campus, only with greater flexibility. In many cases, if a course has a lab component, you’ll be able to access our on-campus labs without a problem. 
RESEARCH & INNOVATION

Solve Problems and Make an Impact

Preview Two WPI students collaborate on a piece of technology in a photonics lab
At WPI, graduate students are key contributors to a vibrant research community, working alongside faculty, top research institutions, and corporate partners. This collaboration, combined with a focus on interdisciplinary skills, equips you to tackle complex challenges from multiple perspectives—making you highly sought after by employers.

 

Learn From World-Class Faculty

Donald Gelosh
Donald Gelosh
Director, Systems Engineering, Graduate & Professional Studies

Dr. Don Gelosh is Director of Systems Engineering Programs for the Institute’s Corporate and Professional Education (CPE) division. In this role, Dr. Gelosh works closely with WPI’s faculty in the development of systems engineering programs. Dr. Gelosh also works with an external Systems Engineering Advisory Council and fosters partnerships among WPI and companies and organizations involved in the systems engineering field. Dr.

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CAREER PREPARATION

Build the Career of the Future

Preview A WPI student wearing a suit stands behind a table and presents their innovation
As a WPI graduate student, you will not only develop the multidimensional skillset that top companies are demanding, but also get the hands-on career support you need to land that promotion or enter the workforce with confidence.

Resources to Help You Prepare for Life After Graduation

Career & Professional Development Programs for Graduate Students

To best prepare our graduate and postdoctoral students for the rapidly evolving and increasingly competitive future of STEM, we offer a number of professional development programs throughout the year. 

These programs are free of charge and open to WPI graduate students and postdocs from all disciplines.

→ View all programming

Heebner Career Development Center (HCDC)

The HCDC helps students explore possible career paths, connect with employers and alumni, gain insights into the labor market, prepare for interviews and salary negotiations, and much more. 

→ Check out career resources

Handshake Career Platform

Handshake, a career platform accessible to WPI students, is where you can apply to internships, co-ops, and jobs that match your career goals and interests. You can also sign up to attend career fairs, workshops, networking events, and more.

→ Explore Handshake

Interstride Portal (Business School Only)

For international students in the Business School at WPI who crave admissions and career support tailored to their specific needs, the Interstride portal offers job searching, networking, and career building opportunities. It also helps lessen the many practical and social hurdles international students experience when transitioning to the US.

→ Find out more about Interstride

Become a Research or Teaching Assistant

You can minimize your graduate school costs and engage in meaningful teaching or research with a graduate assistantship from WPI. These positions are awarded on a competitive basis.

More info about graduate assistantships

A smiling therapy dog visits WPI students on Wellness Day, held once per term
Student Support

Helping Hands Everywhere You Turn

Our kind and supportive community has your back. You’ll get direct assistance and abundant resources to help you not only succeed but thrive:  
  • Campus-Wide Wellness Days
  • Center for Well-Being
  • Academic Coaching
  • Student Ambassadors
  • Student Success Team

Enjoy Endless Things to Do

For graduate students at WPI, getting involved and staying active in the community couldn’t be easier. Options include:
  • Discipline-specific organizations 
  • Department-sponsored events
  • Socials, outings, and events organized by the WPI Graduate Student Government
  • International clubs and events sponsored by the Office of International Student Life 
  • Faith-based clubs
  • Arts, culture, food, and nightlife in Worcester, the second-largest city in New England
     
WPI graduate students gather at an outdoor BBQ at the start of the fall semester

Partake in Programs & Events

Graduate students play an active role in the larger WPI community, and they also get to enjoy their own dedicated programs. Here’s just a small sampling of annual events for WPI graduate students:
  • Orientation 
  • Start-of-the-Year BBQ 
  • Graduate Research in Innovation Exchange (GRIE) poster presentations
  • Three-Minute Thesis (3MT) competition
  • PhD Weekend 
  • Graduate Alumni Career Panel 
  • Commencement  
WPI graduate students and faculty mingle at the Graduate Research in Innovation Exchange, where students present posters on their research
WORCESTER, MA

Find Your Fit in Our Flourishing City

Did you know that Worcester is the second-largest city in New England? A booming college town with over 38,000 students, it’s also a growing hub for industries like bioengineering, drug manufacturing, healthcare, and technology. Take advantage of networking and internship opportunities, the resources of other institutions, and the expanding international community. Conveniently travel to nearby Boston, Providence, and New York City.