Rice University Overview
Rice University is located in the heart of Houston, Texas, on a 300-acre, tree-lined campus near the Texas Medical Center and the Houston Museum District. Known for its tight-knit community, engaging campus life, and groundbreaking research, Rice attracts talented students worldwide. Students can choose from more than 50 majors across seven schools of study, fostering creativity and innovation in academics and extracurriculars.
- Website: rice.edu
- Address: 6100 S Main St, Houston, TX 77005
- Athletics Division: NCAA Division I-FBS
- Athletics Conference: The American Athletic Conference
Rice University Rankings
Rice is highly ranked across various academic fields. Below are some of its most notable rankings:
- Best Colleges for Kinesiology and Physical Therapy in America: #1 of 584
- Best Colleges for Sports Management in America: #1 of 448
- Best Colleges for Architecture in America: #1 of 161
For more rankings, visit the Rice University Rankings Page.
Admissions
- Application Deadline: January 4
- Acceptance Rate: 9%
- SAT Range: 1490-1570
- ACT Range: 34-36
- Application Fee: $75
- Test-Optional Policy: SAT/ACT recommended, not required.
- Early Decision/Early Action: Yes
- Application Portal: Apply to Rice
Application Requirements:
- Completed Common App or Coalition App.
- High school transcript and recommendation letters.
- Standardized test scores (optional).
- Personal essay and supplemental essays.
Cost & Financial Aid
Rice is committed to affordability through initiatives like The Rice Investment. This program offers loan-free financial aid packages to all eligible low- and middle-income students.
- Net Price: $19,902/year (average after aid)
- Average Financial Aid Awarded: $51,955/year
- Percentage Receiving Aid: 67%
- Tuition Payment Plans: Available
For detailed cost breakdowns, visit the Rice Tuition & Aid Page.
Academics
Rice provides a robust academic experience with a 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio, fostering a collaborative learning environment. Students can explore more than 50 majors, from STEM fields to the humanities.
Popular Majors:
- Information Science: 121 graduates/year
- Psychology: 77 graduates/year
- Economics: 75 graduates/year
Key Academic Features:
- The Rice Investment: Makes education affordable and loan-free.
- Evening Degree Programs: Available for select fields.
- Research Opportunities: Extensive undergraduate research options.
Online Learning
While Rice emphasizes in-person education, it offers some online courses. However, no full undergraduate degrees are currently offered online.
- On Campus: 69%
- Online: 31%
Campus Life
Housing and Dining:
- Freshmen Living on Campus: 100%
- Dining Options: High-quality dining facilities, rated highly by 82% of students.
- Greek Life: Minimal presence, with 96% of students not participating.
Recreational Facilities:
- Athletics and recreation facilities are highly rated by 72% of students.
- Performing arts facilities also receive strong ratings from students.
Key Events:
- Lovett Theater Performances
- National First Generation College Week
- South Asian Society’s Diwali Celebrations
What Students Say:
- “Work Hard, Play Hard” is a common theme among Rice students.
- Students appreciate the supportive and collaborative environment.
Diversity and Inclusion
Rice celebrates diversity through initiatives like First-Generation and Limited-Income (FLI) programs and cultural organizations like the South Asian Society. The university promotes inclusivity in every aspect of campus life.
After Graduation
Rice graduates are well-prepared for successful careers and advanced studies.
- Median Earnings (6 Years After Graduation): $65,400/year
- Graduation Rate: 94%
- Employment Rate (2 Years After Graduation): 92%
Poll Insights from Students
Typical Student Description:
- Friendly: 39%
- Work Hard, Play Hard: 18%
- Active: 8%
Greek Life Impact:
- Minimal, as noted by 96% of respondents.
Facilities Ratings:
- Dining: 82% positive.
- Athletics: 72% positive.
General Information
Where is Rice University located?
Rice is located in Houston, Texas, near the Texas Medical Center and the Museum District.What is Rice University known for?
Rice is known for its strong academics, research opportunities, and collaborative culture.What is the campus size of Rice University?
The campus spans 300 acres with tree-lined pathways.What is the student population at Rice University?
Rice has approximately 4,150 undergraduate students.What type of university is Rice?
Rice is a private, coeducational university.What is Rice’s mascot?
Rice’s mascot is Sammy the Owl.What is the nickname for Rice’s sports teams?
The Rice Owls.What is Rice University’s motto?
“Unconventional Wisdom.”How is the weather in Houston for Rice students?
Houston experiences warm and humid weather year-round, with occasional rainfall.Is Rice a safe campus?
Yes, Rice is considered a very safe campus, with its own dedicated police department.
Rankings and Recognition
What is Rice’s national ranking?
Rice consistently ranks among the top 20 universities in the U.S.What is Rice’s ranking for architecture programs?
Rice is ranked #1 for architecture in the U.S.How does Rice rank for sports management?
It ranks #1 for sports management programs.Is Rice a top-tier research university?
Yes, Rice is an R1 research institution.What is Rice’s ranking for student-to-faculty ratio?
Rice has a 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio, among the best in the country.Does Rice rank highly for diversity?
Yes, Rice is recognized for its diverse and inclusive campus.What is Rice’s ranking for affordability?
Rice is frequently ranked as one of the best-value private universities.How does Rice rank globally?
Rice is ranked in the top 100 universities worldwide.What is the graduation rate at Rice?
The graduation rate is 94%.What is Rice’s employment rate after graduation?
92% of students are employed or pursuing further education within two years.
Admissions
What is Rice’s acceptance rate?
The acceptance rate is 9%.What is the application deadline?
Regular Decision: January 4. Early Decision: November 1.Does Rice offer Early Decision?
Yes, Rice offers an Early Decision option.What SAT/ACT scores are required?
SAT: 1490-1570, ACT: 34-36.Is the SAT/ACT required?
It is recommended but not required for the 2024 admissions cycle.What GPA do I need to get into Rice?
Most admitted students have a GPA of 3.8 or higher.Does Rice use the Common App?
Yes, Rice accepts the Common App.Are recommendation letters required?
Yes, at least two letters of recommendation are required.What is the application fee?
The application fee is $75.Does Rice have an optional essay?
Rice requires supplemental essays, including a short “Why Rice?” essay.
Academics
How many majors does Rice offer?
Rice offers over 50 majors across seven schools.What are Rice’s most popular majors?
Information Science, Psychology, and Economics are popular.Does Rice have a core curriculum?
Rice does not have a strict core curriculum, allowing flexibility.Are there study abroad opportunities?
Yes, Rice offers extensive study abroad programs.Does Rice have a medical school?
No, but it is located near the Texas Medical Center.What research opportunities are available?
Rice offers research opportunities in fields like nanotechnology, biosciences, and energy.What is the student-to-faculty ratio?
The ratio is 5:1.Can students double major at Rice?
Yes, double majoring is common at Rice.Are there online programs at Rice?
Rice offers some online courses but no fully online undergraduate degrees.How are Rice’s professors rated?
Professors are highly rated for their expertise and teaching dedication.
Student Life
Do freshmen live on campus?
Yes, all freshmen are required to live on campus.What housing system does Rice use?
Rice has a residential college system similar to Hogwarts.Is Rice LGBTQ+ friendly?
Yes, Rice is very inclusive and supports LGBTQ+ students.Does Rice have Greek life?
Rice has minimal Greek life, with most social activities centered around residential colleges.What is the dining experience like at Rice?
Dining facilities are highly rated, with options for various dietary needs.Are there clubs and organizations at Rice?
Yes, there are over 200 student organizations.What traditions are unique to Rice?
Traditions include Beer Bike and O-Week (Orientation Week).Does Rice have intramural sports?
Yes, there are a variety of intramural and club sports available.Is public transportation available near campus?
Yes, Houston’s METRO system is accessible from Rice.Are pets allowed in dorms?
No, except for approved service animals.
Diversity and Inclusion
What percentage of Rice students are international?
Approximately 12% of students are international.Does Rice have diversity programs?
Yes, programs like The Rice Investment and cultural organizations promote diversity.How does Rice support first-generation students?
Through initiatives like FLI (First-Generation and Limited-Income) programs.Are there cultural organizations at Rice?
Yes, groups like the South Asian Society and Black Student Association are active.Does Rice offer need-blind admissions?
Yes, for domestic applicants.What financial aid does Rice offer?
Rice provides generous aid, including loan-free packages for eligible students.Is there a dedicated office for international students?
Yes, the Office of International Students and Scholars (OISS) provides support.Are there women-specific programs?
Yes, programs like Rice Women in STEM support female students.How accessible are campus facilities?
Rice ensures that all buildings and facilities are accessible.Does Rice have religious organizations?
Yes, there are groups for various faiths, including Christian, Muslim, and Jewish organizations.
After Graduation
What is the average starting salary for Rice graduates?
The median starting salary is $65,400/year.What is the employment rate for Rice graduates?
92% of graduates are employed or pursuing further education within two years.Does Rice have a strong alumni network?
Yes, Rice’s alumni network is active and global.What career services does Rice offer?
The Center for Career Development helps with internships, jobs, and networking.Do many Rice students go to grad school?
Yes, a significant number pursue graduate studies in top programs.Does Rice help with internships?
Yes, Rice provides resources for securing internships across various industries.Are there entrepreneurship opportunities at Rice?
Yes, Rice has programs like the Liu Idea Lab for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (LILIE).Does Rice host career fairs?
Yes, Rice hosts multiple career fairs annually.What industries hire Rice graduates?
Common industries include technology, healthcare, consulting, and energy.What percentage of Rice graduates stay in Texas?
About 40% of Rice graduates stay in Texas after graduation.
Unique Programs and Features
What is The Rice Investment?
A financial aid program that makes Rice affordable for low- and middle-income students.What is Beer Bike?
A unique tradition involving bike races and water balloon fights.What is the residential college system?
A community-based housing system fostering close relationships.What is O-Week?
A week-long orientation program introducing new students to Rice.Does Rice have a focus on sustainability?
Yes, Rice emphasizes sustainability through initiatives like LEED-certified buildings.
Campus and Facilities
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Rice?
The ratio is 5:1, ensuring personalized attention from professors.Does Rice have a library?
Yes, Rice’s Fondren Library is a central resource for students and faculty.What recreational facilities are available at Rice?
Rice offers state-of-the-art gyms, sports courts, and swimming pools for students.Does Rice provide mental health services?
Yes, through the Rice Counseling Center, which offers free counseling services to students.Are there dining options for vegetarians/vegans at Rice?
Yes, the dining halls provide diverse options, including vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meals.What housing options are available at Rice?
Housing is organized by the residential college system, which includes both single and double rooms.Does Rice have parking for students?
Yes, but parking spaces are limited, and students must purchase permits.What transportation options are available on campus?
Shuttle services and bike-friendly pathways are available across campus.Does Rice have a campus bookstore?
Yes, the Rice Campus Store offers textbooks, merchandise, and other supplies.What safety measures are in place at Rice?
Rice has its own police department and a safety escort service for students.
Admissions and Applications
Does Rice have a waitlist for admissions?
Yes, highly qualified students may be placed on a waitlist.Are interviews required for Rice applicants?
Interviews are optional but encouraged for undergraduate applicants.Does Rice offer merit-based scholarships?
Yes, in addition to need-based aid, Rice offers merit-based scholarships.Can international students apply to Rice?
Yes, Rice welcomes applications from international students.What is the average class size at Rice?
Most classes have fewer than 20 students.Does Rice accept transfer students?
Yes, Rice accepts a limited number of transfer students each year.Are there language requirements for international applicants?
Yes, international students must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS scores.What documents are required for financial aid applications?
U.S. students must submit the FAFSA and CSS Profile.Does Rice offer conditional admission?
No, Rice does not typically offer conditional admission.Is it possible to defer admission at Rice?
Yes, admitted students may request a one-year deferral.
Academics and Opportunities
What study-abroad programs does Rice offer?
Rice partners with universities worldwide to provide diverse study-abroad opportunities.Are internships required for all majors at Rice?
Internships are not required but are highly encouraged.Does Rice have honors programs?
Yes, Rice offers departmental honors programs in several fields.Can students take classes at other Houston universities?
Yes, through partnerships with institutions like the University of Houston and Baylor College of Medicine.Does Rice offer accelerated degree programs?
Yes, Rice offers several 4+1 programs, allowing students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years.
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