

Purdue University, located in West Lafayette, Indiana, is a large public research institution renowned for its top-ranked programs in engineering, technology, business, and agriculture. Established in 1869 as a land-grant university, Purdue now has a diverse student population of 58,000, including over 44,000 undergraduates. Nearly 20% of its students come from outside the United States.
The university's College of Engineering is among the best in the U.S., with notable programs in aerospace, electrical, mechanical, and industrial engineering. In 2024, Purdue was ranked No. 8 in the nation for undergraduate engineering by U.S. News & World Report. Its graduates are sought after by leading tech companies, NASA, and major engineering firms worldwide.
Experiential Learning and Innovation
Purdue emphasizes hands-on learning and cutting-edge research. Notable programs include:
Engineering Projects in Community Service (EPICS): First-year students design and implement engineering solutions for local and global communities with faculty mentorship.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship: Students are supported in launching startups with expertise, funding, and resources.
Global Engineering Programs (GEP): Opportunities for study abroad, internships, and research to enhance technical and cultural competencies.
Internships and Co-Op Programs: Partnerships with leading companies provide students with real-world experience and industry connections.
Research Opportunities: With nearly $650 million in annual funding, students collaborate on groundbreaking projects in fields such as biomedical engineering, artificial intelligence, and sustainable energy.
Campus and Community
Athletics – playing and watching – are a big part of campus life. Students are passionate about their Boilermaker football and basketball teams, which are part of the Big Ten Cconference. Furthermore, Purdue’s campus combines small-town charm with a lively student atmosphere – and the large city of Indianapolis is just an hour away.
Notable Alumni
Neil Armstrong: The first person to walk on the moon
Brian Lamb: Founder of C-SPAN and a transformative figure in political journalism
Drew Brees: Former NFL quarterback and philanthropist
Gus Grissom: A pioneering NASA astronaut and member of the Mercury Seven crew
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