Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

MIT, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, is a private research university whose urban campus stretches more than a mile along the Charles River in Cambridge, a short walk from Central Square. Founded in 1861 as the country industrialized, it adopted a European polytechnic model and stressed laboratory instruction in applied science and engineering. It has since played a key role in the development of modern science, engineering, mathematics and technology, and it ranks among the most prestigious institutions of higher learning in the world.

MIT holds land-grant, sea-grant and space-grant status. Its reach extends beyond the main campus to major facilities such as MIT Lincoln Laboratory, the Bates Center and the Haystack Observatory, along with affiliated laboratories including the Broad Institute and the Whitehead Institute. Current research priorities include human health, energy innovation, quantum computing and advanced manufacturing, which the Institute presents as work that supports national security, economic competitiveness and quality of life.

What to Know

• MIT is listed by the Central Square Business Improvement District.
• The mission statement centers on educating students in science, technology and other fields that serve the nation and the world.
• The Institute’s iconic product-design class, 2.009, has launched startups including an FDA-cleared tremor device company.
• The MIT for America initiative extends STEM engagement to students from kindergarten through community college.