Worcester Polytechnic Institute is an old private, technological university founded in 1865. The University offers online degrees that are developed and taught by the same faculty teaching on campus. Students are encouraged to demonstrate their ability to apply what they learn to real-world problems, they gain an appreciation for how the solutions to those problems might impact their jobs and the world around them.

Distance learning allows students get the same class content, same materials, faculty, and diploma as on-campus students. The University's distance students never need to come to campus. When students are admitted to any program at WPI, they may register for any course section that fits their needs - on-campus or distance. Graduates will be awarded a degree or certificate that is the same as all other WPI alumni.

Admissions
Students can apply at any time as the University admits students year-round. They must have earned the equivalent of a U.S. bachelor's degree to be admitted into a WPI graduate degree or graduate certificate program. Their applications will be reviewed based on their past academic performance, letters of reference, test scores, if required, and practical experience.

Financial Aid
All first time undergraduate students, returning upper-class undergraduate students, transfer students or graduate students may apply for financial aid. The type of financial aid varies at WPI and it depends on students' program of interest (undergraduate or graduate program). Financial aid advisers will help individuals with any questions they may have concerning the various resources and lending options that are available to them and their families.