The Projects Program

Putting Knowledge to Work for Personal and Societal Enrichment

At WPI, project activity is an integral part of the total educational experience–and it’s an excellent opportunity for graduates to enter their engineering field of choice with solid hands-on experience.   

Requirements can vary, but in most cases projects are chosen in consultation with the student’s academic advisor and must be accepted by a project advisor before registration can be completed. Many opportunities originate with off-campus sponsors, and pose challenges to solve real-world problems.

As a result, students gain valuable experience that can make them more attractive to employers and help advance their careers. Several project options are available to students.

Great Problems Seminars

WPI believes the best way to learn is by doing–right from the start. First-year students begin tackling some of the world's most pressing issues through the Great Problems Seminars Learn more...

Humanities & Arts

The Humanities and Arts requirement prepares students to be well-rounded contributors to society, more compelling applicants to professional schools, and more well-versed professionals. Learn more...  

Interactive Qualifying Project

The Interactive Qualifying Project (IQP) requires students to work in teams to find solutions to societal problems using science and technology. It's challenging, rewarding, and life changing. Learn more...  

Major Qualifying Project

The Major Qualifying Project (MQP) is completed by every undergraduate. Generally undertaken in teams, this capstone project is an integral element of WPI's project-enriched education. MQPs are high-level research projects that address problems typical of those found in the student's professional discipline, and as such are coordinated through the student’s academic department. Learn more...