Rice University: A Leading Institution of Excellence

Rice University exemplifies vision, innovation, and commitment. Located in the heart of Houston, Texas, Rice is renowned for its gothic architecture and its substantial contributions to education, research, and the global community. With a history linked closely to Houston, Rice University continues to redefine comprehensive education, preparing students to lead and innovate in modern society.

Brief History

Rice University opened its doors in 1912, following the unexpected passing of its founder, William Marsh Rice. In 1891, he set aside a considerable part of his estate to establish the institute. Originally called the Rice Institute, it aimed to merge the close-knit environment of a liberal arts college with the depth of a research institution. Starting with 48 students and a dozen faculty members, the university has seen remarkable growth over time.

Rice became officially known as Rice University in 1960. By then, it had gained recognition as a national and international hub for academic excellence. The introduction of tuition in 1965 and the expansion of graduate programs helped the university adapt to the needs of a growing and diverse student body.

Academics

What makes the academics at Rice University special? The university emphasizes a student-focused approach, small class sizes, and the integration of teaching and research. Students can choose from over 50 undergraduate majors across six areas: architecture, engineering, humanities, music, natural sciences, and social sciences. Graduate studies also hold a prestigious reputation, with a range of master’s and doctoral degrees available.

Learning at Rice occurs under the guidance of faculty who are experts in their fields and committed to teaching. The university fosters cross-disciplinary collaboration, which is vital for innovation and addressing complex problems. This ethos is exemplified by research initiatives across various schools and institutes, such as the BioScience Research Collaborative and the Baker Institute for Public Policy.

Rankings

How does Rice University rank among its peers? The university's commitment to excellence earns it consistent placement in the top 20 of U.S. national universities, according to U.S. News & World Report. Its recognition extends globally for research output, education quality, and contributions to knowledge.

Specialized programs in engineering, business, and the physical sciences are recognized for their rigor. The undergraduate experience is rated highly for student quality of life, balancing academic challenge with vibrant campus life.

Contacting Admissions

Are you interested in joining Rice University? Prospective students can reach the Office of Admission for guidance on the application process:

• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +1 (713) 348-RICE (7423)
• Address: Office of Admission – MS 17, P.O. Box 1892, Houston, TX 77251-1892

Graduate admissions inquiries vary by department. Prospective graduate students should check the relevant department’s website for specific contact information.

Useful Links

For more information, prospective students, researchers, and faculty can explore the following links:

• Official Rice University website: https://www.rice.edu
• Undergraduate Admissions: https://admission.rice.edu
• Graduate Studies: https://graduate.rice.edu
• Rice University Rankings: https://www.rice.edu/rankings
• Research at Rice: https://research.rice.edu
• Rice Athletics: https://riceowls.com

Rice University stands as a premier institution for higher education and research in the United States and the world. Its blend of intimate campus life, rigorous academic programs, and dedication to impactful research offers a unique learning environment. As Rice continues to shape the leaders and innovators of tomorrow, it upholds its position at the forefront of education, embodying its motto, "Unconventional Wisdom."