Worcester: It’s our first name.

WPI is located in the heart of Worcester, New England’s second largest city, about 40 miles west of Boston. With more than 38,000 students on 9 campuses, Worcester offers the charm and ease of a college town with the convenience of urban living—including a lively cultural scene, world-class restaurants, close-knit neighborhoods, beautiful parks, affordable cost of living, quality public schools, and easy access to area transportation.

Worcester: How do you say it?

Named after Worcester, England, it looks like it should be pronounced “Wore-sess-ter.” However, it’s actually pronounced “Wooster” (or, depending on your New England accent, “Wuh-stah”). Either way, the first “r” is mysteriously silent.

Heart of the Commonwealth

Notice the hearts on the city’s street signs? The heart is the official symbol of Worcester in recognition of its place as the “Heart of the Commonwealth.”

Why Worcester?

A vibrant and historic city, and a hub for higher education and innovation, Worcester has much to offer WPI students, faculty, and staff.

Explore demographics, education, employment, income, and other trends in the latest Worcester Census Report.

In the News

Remaking Worcester – the Union of Theory & Practice

Calling it “a remarkable year at WPI,” this Telegram & Gazette editorial highlighted the university’s inventions and other accomplishments. The T&G referred to “an expanding focus on innovation and entrepreneurship that has been part of the college’s DNA going back to its founding but which is reaching a new level under President Laurie Leshin.” Todd Keiller, director of WPI’s Office of Intellectual Property and Innovation, told the newspaper that Leshin supports “a cycle of innovation and entrepreneurship,” benefiting both WPI and the community.

Logo for Worcester, MA local newspaper, The Telegram & Gazette

Worcester Goes Green

Worcester is leading the way in going green in Central Massachusetts, and WPI is right in the thick of it. The university's sustainability efforts -- along with the city's -- are featured in a recent Worcester Magazine cover story. Read the story: “Going Green-Worcester and Central Mass are Leading the Way.”