Hands-on learning, including industry-sponsored class projects and experiential learning — enhanced by a community of doers, makers, and problem-solvers.
(noun) 21st century: An academic college at a world-class university that uses innovative learning methods, real-world experiences, and industry partnerships to produce graduates uniquely qualified for technology-driven careers.
In Polytechnic’s CIT Department, the plethora of resources available to us allowed me to have exposure and gain experience ... [with] hardware and software that, by itself, would cost way more than our tuition. My academic advisor, Lauren Lucas, [was] also the best I could ask for."
Purdue Polytechnic gave me the technical knowledge and adaptability I need in a changing HR field. The support from so many mentors among both faculty and staff helped me grow into a stronger leader and professional."
I started my job in January, and I love being an engineer! My time at Purdue taught me how to stay focused and dedicated to a goal. Leaving my original path in nursing was a difficult decision, but I never regretted choosing Purdue Polytechnic for my engineering technology degree."
I was always intimidated by statistics, but the faculty made it very approachable and I apply many of those concepts to my job. For the same reason, I also appreciated the focus on international relations—the study abroad trip with James Tanoos was an amazing experience I’ll always remember."
Purdue’s broad curriculum allowed me to explore various areas of IT, helping me find the perfect fit in systems administration. My experience working with Purdue IT, especially with Active Directory and troubleshooting, has prepared me well for my new role. Classes like CNIT 242, CNIT 344, and CNIT 345 emphasized the importance of systems integration and documentation, while Professor Deadman’s real-world-focused classes helped me see the bigger picture in IT."
I feel that the School of Aviation and Transportation technology equipped me with the knowledge to succeed in my job. Special thanks are also due to the Aviation Technology Student Council—joining them as a freshman gave me the opportunity to become a leader in my own way."
Purdue Polytechnic's hands-on labs and challenging coursework helped me build confidence in my skills. The rigorous environment prepared me for real-world IT challenges, especially in areas like risk assessments and security policy. My internships in IT risk, governance and compliance also helped me apply what I learned in class to real industry scenarios, setting me up for success at American Express."
The extensive amount of collaboration with my peers in the Polytechnic has given me the skills to communicate effectively and work well with other team members."
Purdue’s hands-on labs and structured courses helped me develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills specific to cybersecurity. Working with my lab partners pushed me to do my best, which gave me confidence when presenting myself to potential employers."
The Experience Studio was the most impactful part of my Purdue journey. Working on five different real-world projects with company sponsors gave me the practical skills and confidence I needed to succeed. I brought up that class in every internship and job interview—it shaped how I work, lead, and collaborate."
The hands-on experience working with turbine engines, airframes and electrical systems has helped me gain a great understanding of many aspects of aviation and gas/power systems. Professor Barnes and Dr. Davis have been hugely supportive and influential in helping me learn and achieve my goals."
Purdue Polytechnic helped me better understand the variety of jobs I can succeed in. Professors like Jeffrey Griffin and Joseph Kintzel made it fun to learn these skills, and they are always willing to help."
The Polytechnic provided me with so many opportunities to dive into the real-life applications of the theory we discussed in lectures. These experiences led to internships, and the internships led to job opportunities!"
My favorite professor was Dawn Laux. As a young woman in a technology field, it felt amazing to have a female professor who helped me further understand the world of technology."
Purdue Polytechnic’s hands-on learning and emphasis on collaboration helped me build the skills I need for consulting. The cybersecurity labs, combined with courses like Cyber Law and Ethics and Incident Response Management, have given me both the technical and communications skills to identify risks and help clients improve their security posture. My favorite experience was learning social engineering tactics in Professor Ringenberg’s class, which gave me a real-world perspective on cybersecurity."
Working directly with equipment and troubleshooting in lab settings gave me the confidence to handle real-life manufacturing conditions. At Purdue Polytechnic, t wasn’t just theory—we practiced what we learned, which made the transition into industry feel familiar and manageable."
The Department of Computer Graphics Technology prepared me by conducting hands-on courses where I would receive a key portfolio piece each semester. The department is also a major advocate for students to acquire jobs and internships – and an internship is what made me better qualified for my new position."
Purdue Polytechnic’s advisors, and particularly Lafayette’s director Sindie Ballotti played a big role in designing my courses and answering almost every question that I had during my time at Purdue Polytechnic. Special thanks to James Maley—I loved his courses, and how they were set up.”"
Purdue Polytechnic’s hands-on lab work and high-quality problem-solving assignments and experiences help us to truly put what we learn into practice. We are able to freely collaborate with our peers and ask for guidance from our professors, which prepares us to face real industrial challenges. The student population has made me realize how incredibly unique each and every one of us is."
Purdue gave me a solid foundation in construction management and the chance to apply what I learned through internships. Courses like Construction Materials and Methods and the Capstone project gave me real-world skills, while mentors like Toni Munguia and Danny Wyman helped me grow into a confident and capable professional."