<p>I am planning on going to graduate school to obtain my PhD in either mechanical or aerospace engineering, I would eventually like to either become a professor at a university or work at an organization such as NASA doing research. I have been looking at a lot of schools and I was wondering if anyone out there has an opinion on Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. I think they have some really interesting research but I have never heard much about them. I cant think of anyone I have met or anyone I have heard about that has gone to this school. I am curious, is it a good school, why havent I heard much about them (is it just me?), what kind of careers do its graduates generally pursue and anything else that might be relevant.</p>
<p>Thanks</p>
<p>I have two friends who are/went there; one did Mech engr and the other electrical. RPI has the most engineering fields out of any university in the country(aero, me, cheme, ee, etc). They are well respected and most engineers have heard about them here in the east coast (its in upstate NY). RPI has very good research facilities and their president is a well known and most paid university president in the country (Shirley Ann Jackson). Their aero program isnt top ranked (1-15) but its still up there. I am also consiedering aerospace masters and may apply there. You probably know this already but you should also look at, USC, Ohio State, Univ of Maryland, U Mich, Purdue, etc. The ranking by US News should give you an idea about a schools program and your chances. Also visiting all their websites have helped me alot and may see where you may be a good fit. I am looking at propulsion.</p>