Worcester Polytechnic Institute Programs & Rankings

How We Rank Programs

Program rankings reflect labor market outcomes based on federal College Scorecard data, measuring median earnings, debt levels, and return on investment rather than institutional prestige or academic reputation. Programs at the same institution show different outcomes because career paths, industry demand, and typical starting salaries vary significantly by field. For example, Computer Science graduates typically enter higher-paying technology roles while Biology graduates may pursue graduate study or research positions with different earnings trajectories. Rankings compare programs nationally within each major, so a #1 ranking indicates top performance among all institutions offering that specific program. Cohort sizes indicate program scale and statistical confidence, with larger programs providing more reliable earnings data. Students should consider both absolute earnings and program rankings when evaluating fit, recognizing that outcomes reflect typical career paths rather than individual potential.