Worcester Polytechnic Institute

What you'll study

This programme combines core engineering and STEM coursework with sustained study in the liberal arts and social sciences. Early study focuses on mathematics, physics and introductory engineering principles to build quantitative and problem‑solving skills, while parallel liberal‑arts courses develop written and oral communication, historical and philosophical perspectives, and ethical reasoning.

• Foundation STEM modules: calculus, differential equations, general physics, introductory programming and laboratory courses to establish technical literacy.
• Engineering coursework: core engineering topics appropriate to a BA pathway (systems thinking, materials and design fundamentals, statistics and data analysis), with opportunities to select technical electives aligned with personal interests.
• Liberal arts concentration: sustained coursework in areas such as philosophy of technology, science and society, public policy, economics, rhetoric and digital media, with options to focus on a single discipline area.
• Project work: WPI’s project‑based learning is central — students complete team projects that apply interdisciplinary knowledge to real problems, including campus‑based research projects and two signature projects that emphasise societal context and solution implementation.
• Capstone: a major qualifying project (MQP) or equivalent capstone that integrates engineering skills with liberal‑arts analysis, producing a substantial written report and presentation.
• Electives and breadth: coursework in foreign languages, arts, humanities and social sciences to ensure broad cultural and communicative competence.

Entry requirements

Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance in secondary education with particular strength in mathematics and at least one laboratory science. WPI evaluates applications holistically; successful candidates typically show evidence of analytical ability, clear written communication and an interest in interdisciplinary problem solving.

• Academic preparation: courses in calculus (or precalculus with strong performance), physics and laboratory science are expected. For applicants from qualification systems such as A‑levels, IB or other national frameworks, strong grades in Mathematics and a science subject are normally required.
• Supporting materials: personal statement or essays that articulate interest in combining engineering and the liberal arts, academic references, and a record of relevant projects, extracurricular activities or work experience strengthen an application.
• Additional considerations: standardised tests, portfolios or interviews may be considered where provided; international applicants should demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests or approved alternatives if their prior education was not in English.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Liberal Arts & Engineering BA are prepared for roles that require both technical fluency and strengths in communication, analysis and ethical judgement. Typical career paths include technical consulting, policy analysis and public affairs for technology firms, product management, user experience and human‑centred design, systems integration and technical writing. Many graduates also pursue graduate study in engineering, public policy, management or law.

• Industry roles bridging engineering and business or communications (product or project management, technical consulting)
• Positions in government, non‑profits or think tanks where technical understanding informs policy and regulation
• Design, user experience and human factors roles that combine technical design with social research
• Further study at masters or professional levels in engineering, public policy, business or law

Why study at Worcester Polytechnic Institute

WPI is known for its project‑based curriculum, which gives students sustained, real‑world experience applying interdisciplinary knowledge to practical challenges. Small class sizes and a supportive faculty enable close mentorship across engineering and liberal‑arts disciplines. The university’s strong connections with industry and a dedicated career services team help translate project experience into internships and employment. In addition, WPI’s global project opportunities and collaborative research centres allow students to test solutions in diverse cultural and organisational settings, preparing graduates to work at the intersection of technology and society.