Massachusetts Institute of Technology

About University

The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a private research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Founded in 1861 in response to the increasing industrialization of the United States, MIT adopted a European polytechnic university model and stressed laboratory instruction in applied science and engineering. Researchers worked on computers, radar, and inertial guidance during World War II and the Cold War. Post-war defense research contributed to the rapid expansion of the faculty and campus under James Killian. The current 168-acre (68.0 ha) campus opened in 1916 and extends over 1 mile (1.6 km) along the northern bank of the Charles River basin.

MIT, with five schools and one college which contain a total of 32 departments, is traditionally known for research and education in the physical sciences and engineering, and more recently in biology, economics, linguistics, and management as well. The "Engineers" sponsor 31 sports, most teams of which compete in the NCAA Division III's New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference; the Division I rowing programs compete as part of the EARC and EAWRC.

MIT is often cited as among the world's top universities. As of 2014, 81 Nobel laureates, 52 National Medal of Science recipients, 45 Rhodes Scholars, 38 MacArthur Fellows, and 2 Fields Medalists have been affiliated with MIT. MIT has a strong entrepreneurial culture and the aggregated revenues of companies founded by MIT alumni would rank as the eleventh-largest economy in the world

• School of Engineering

  Comprised of an exceptional community of students, scholars, researchers, educators, and engineering practitioners, the MIT School of Engineering’s mission is to educate the next generation of engineering leaders, to create new knowledge, and to serve society. By cultivating and training the people who will help create solutions to the greatest technological and social problems of the 21st century, and by directly contributing innovative ideas and practical technologies to society, the School of Engineering fulfills its obligation as a world-leading institution. The largest of MIT’s five schools, the School of Engineering educates about 60 percent of MIT’s undergraduates and 45 percent of graduate students. Just over a third of MIT’s faculty are in the School and they account for more than half of the sponsored research at the Institute.

• School of Architecture and Planning

  The School of Architecture and Planning is the oldest in the United States. It is also the most vigorous. Established in 1865, the school includes among its graduates renowned figures like Louis Sullivan, Robert R. Taylor, Marion Mahony Griffin, I.M.Pei, Kevin Lynch, Gordon Bunshaft, William Pedersen, and Nicholas Negroponte. In addition to architecture and planning, the school has over the years embraced a broader range of fields that address and improve human environments, including real estate, media, and the arts

• School of Humanities, Arts, and Social Sciences

  MIT SHASS is home to research that has a global impact, and to superb graduate programs, all recognized as among the finest in the world. With 13 academic fields, the School's portfolio is vast, including: international studies, linguistics, comparative media studies, economics, poverty alleviation, literature, anthropology, digital humanities, philosophy, global studies and languages, music and theater arts, writing, political science, security studies, women's and gender studies, and history.

• Sloan School of Management

  The MIT Sloan School of Management, based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, is one of the world's leading business schools. MIT Sloan is devoted to its mission: to develop principled, innovative leaders who improve the world and to generate ideas that advance management practice. An education at MIT Sloan prepares you for your next step, equipping you with the tools you need to lead a team, manage a complex organization, or found your own company. Fueled by the groundbreaking work of our faculty in such critical areas as finance and policy, innovation and entrepreneurship, technology, healthcare, and sustainability, you will leave MIT Sloan ready to take your career to the next level.

• School of Science

  The School of Science is an amazing enterprise.  With approximately 300 faculty members, 1100 graduate students, 900 undergraduate majors and similarly large numbers of postdoctoral researchers and research staff, it is large enough to carry out research at the frontiers in every field of science.  Our faculty members have won 16 Nobel Prizes and our alumni have won 16 Nobel prizes; most of these have come in the past 20 years.  The six departments in the School are consistently rated among the best in the world.

History

The history of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology can be traced back to the 1861 incorporation of the "Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Boston Society of Natural History" led primarily by William Barton Rogers.

Construction of the first MIT building was completed in Boston's Back Bay in 1866 and would be known as "Boston Tech" until the campus moved across the Charles River to Cambridge in 1916.

At the Philadelphia Centennial Exhibition of 1875, Runkle was impressed by the work of the Russian Victor Della-Vos, who had introduced a pedagogical approach combining manual and theoretical instruction at the Moscow Imperial Technical Academy. Runkle became an advocate of this approach, introducing it at MIT.

MIT's financial position was severely undermined following the Panic of 1873 and subsequent Long Depression. Enrollments decreased sharply after 1875 and by 1878, the university had abolished three professorships, reduced faculty salaries, and there was talk among members of the Corporation of closing the Institute. In 1879, Runkle retired from a nine-year tenure as the MIT's second president trying to weather these challenges, but the board of trustees (the "MIT Corporation") was unable to secure a new successor and elected the seventy-five year-old founder William Barton Rogers back to the post in the interim under his stipulated conditions that he be allowed to resign upon the discovery of a successor and $100,000 ($2,303,000 in 2009) be raised to fund the Institute's obligations.

Admissions to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) are highly selective, with a comprehensive review process designed to identify students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability, intellectual curiosity, and a commitment to solving complex problems. Applicants are evaluated on a variety of criteria, including academic accomplishments, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, personal qualities, and potential contributions to the MIT community.

Prospective students must submit a completed application through the MIT Admissions Office, which includes academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, essays, and standardized test scores such as the SAT or ACT. Although MIT has traditionally placed significant emphasis on standardized testing, it has adopted a test-optional policy for certain admissions cycles, allowing applicants to choose whether to submit scores. Additional components may include TOEFL or IELTS scores for international students, ensuring language proficiency.

Applicants are encouraged to present a rigorous high school curriculum, emphasizing advanced courses in mathematics, science, and the humanities. Extracurricular involvement, research experience, leadership roles, and special talents are also considered crucial indicators of an applicant’s potential for success at MIT. Personal essays provide insight into the applicant’s motivations, passions, and reasons for choosing MIT, allowing the admissions committee to assess qualities such as creativity, resilience, and collaboration skills.

MIT practices a holistic review process, considering each application in its entirety to understand the applicant’s individual context, achievements, and aspirations. Interviews may be conducted either in person or virtually, offering applicants an opportunity to share more about themselves and their interests. The admissions timeline typically involves early action and regular decision rounds, with notification dates in December and March, respectively.

The institution values diversity and seeks students from a wide range of backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. Financial aid is available and can be both need-based and scholarship programs, ensuring that talented students have access regardless of economic circumstances. Overall, MIT’s admission process aims to select students who demonstrate the potential to thrive academically and contribute meaningfully to the institute’s vibrant community dedicated to advancing knowledge and innovation.

Accreditation 

MIT is fully accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC).  It's accreditation was last continued in spring 2010. The MIT self-study, the evaluation team report, the MIT response to the team report and the NEASC decision letter are available online.

International rankings 

#1 - QS World University Rankings 2015/16.

#1 - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2016(Computer Science and Information sistems)

#1 - QS World University Rankings by Faculty 2015/16.(engineering and technology)

Name: Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States
Type: Private research university
Founded: 1861
Student Life Description:
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers a vibrant and diverse student life that enhances academic experiences and personal growth. The university hosts over 11,000 students from around the world, fostering a multicultural environment. Students have access to numerous organizations, clubs, and extracurricular activities, including academic societies, cultural groups, sports teams, and service organizations. MIT promotes innovation and leadership through programs like the MIT Sloan Student Clubs, THE Tech newspaper, and the numerous hackathons and competitions held on campus. Residence life is an integral part of the MIT experience, with a variety of undergraduate and graduate dormitories providing housing and community building opportunities. The Institute encourages students to engage in entrepreneurship, with resources such as the Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship offering mentorship, funding, and networking. Arts and music also play a significant role, with facilities like the MIT Museum, numerous galleries, and performance venues. Health and wellness are prioritized through wellness programs, counseling services, and athletic facilities, including gymnasiums and recreational sports. The MIT campus hosts regular events, seminars, guest lectures, and celebrations that foster community spirit and academic collaboration. Overall, student life at MIT is characterized by its dynamic, inclusive, and innovative atmosphere, supporting students in developing their academic, professional, and personal aspirations.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers a comprehensive range of services and facilities designed to support students' academic, professional, and personal development. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and research centers equipped with advanced technology, fostering innovation and hands-on learning across numerous disciplines. MIT's extensive library system includes the Barker Library and the Dewey Library, providing vast collections of books, journals, and digital resources, along with study spaces, computer terminals, and research assistance. For health and wellness, MIT provides on-campus medical services through the MIT Medical facility, which offers primary care, mental health support, nutrition counseling, and wellness programs. The institute also has professional counseling services to assist students with mental health, stress management, and career planning.

Athletic and recreational facilities are prominently available, including the Zesiger Sports and Fitness Center, which features gyms, swimming pools, courts for tennis, basketball, and volleyball, as well as climbing walls and fitness classes. Outdoor spaces such as Killian Court and the MIT Outdoor Rock Climbing Wall promote physical activity and social gatherings. Housing services are provided through MIT Housing Office, offering undergraduate and graduate residences, including dormitories, fraternities, and cooperative housing, along with support for off-campus housing searches.

Academic support services are plentiful, with tutoring centers, writing and communication labs, and an extensive career services office that offers internship placement, resume workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs. The Institute also supports entrepreneurship and innovation through the Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship, which provides mentorship, funding opportunities, and startup resources. For international students, services include visa advising, orientation programs, and cultural integration activities. Additionally, MIT fosters student engagement through numerous clubs, student government, and cultural organizations, promoting a vibrant campus life. Overall, MIT's facilities and services facilitate a well-rounded student experience, supporting academic excellence, health, well-being, and community involvement.

The Institute is committed to generating, disseminating, and preserving knowledge, and to working with others to bring this knowledge to bear on the world’s great challenges. MIT is dedicated to providing its students with an education that combines rigorous academic study and the excitement of discovery with the support and intellectual stimulation of a diverse campus community. We seek to develop in each member of the MIT community the ability and passion to work wisely, creatively, and effectively for the betterment of humankind.

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