About

Preparing the next generation of innovative
scientists and mathematicians.

Our Mission

The College of Science prepares graduates for careers in the physical, life, and mathematical sciences and provides mathematical and scientific foundations for all RIT students through academic programs and impactful innovative research that expand scientific knowledge and develop new technologies to advance the sciences and their application to society and our environment. We embrace social justice and equity-related to but not limited to education, research, and the scientific community at large.

Our Vision

The College of Science will be recognized as a national model for its significant contribution and impact in making our communities and our world better, fair, diverse, and inclusive. This will be accomplished by preparing world leaders who will expand the frontiers of science and mathematics and their application in identifying solutions to societal and global challenges, systemic inequities, and will contribute to a society that embraces justice for all people.

Learn more about our guiding principles and goals 

students with professor in biology lab looking at petri dish

We embrace social justice and equity-related to but not limited to education, research, and the scientific community at large.

About RIT College of Science

100%

Students Complete Experiential Learning

All College of Science students are required to complete experiential learning such as a co-op, REU, paid research, or research for credit before graduation.

9.9K

Alumni Worldwide

Our alumni are valued resources who help us keep our programs relevant. As mentors, they help us prepare the next generation of scientists and mathematicians.

15+

Science and Math Clubs

The College of Science is home to over 15 student-led clubs and organizations out of the 300+ clubs on campus. Our clubs are dedicated to science and mathematics including Pre-Vet Club, Society of Physics Students, and PiRIT (our math club).

1st

Imaging Science Program

The College of Science is home to the first imaging science program in the U.S. and currently the only formal program in the country.

1st

BS Degree in Biotechnology

RIT was the first university in the nation to offer a Bachelor of Science degree in biotechnology in 1983.

20

Accelerated BS/MS Degrees

The College of Science offers 20 pathways for combined accelerated Bachelor’s/Master’s degrees allowing students to complete two degrees in as little as five years.

5

Ph.D. Programs

The College of Science Ph.D. programs include: astrophysical sciences and technology, color science, imaging science, and mathematical modeling.

1st

Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

As the first RIT college to hire a Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, the College of Science is committed to promoting an inclusive community that promotes equality and equity.

By the Numbers

Student Body
Undergraduate 924
Graduate 341
Total 1,265
   
Student Gender  
Female 46%
Male 54%
Faculty
Full-Time Faculty 195
Staff 79
Degrees Offered
Advanced Certificate 2
Master of Science 12
Bachelor of Science 11
Accelerated BS/MS 20
Ph.D. 4
Minors 15
Immersions 8
Trophies lined up on a shelf

Rankings and Recognition


World's Top 2% of Scientists

Stanford University's list of the world's top 2% of scientists for 2022 includes 15 researchers from RIT's College of Science, including faculty, alumni, and professors emeriti.


78th Best Graduate Physics School

RIT was ranked 78th among the country's top graduate physics schools in the 2023 U.S. News & World Report edition of America’s Best Graduate Schools for the Astrophysical Sciences and Technology programs.


11th in Co-op and Internship Programs

RIT ranked 11th in the U.S. News & World Report for Top Schools with Co-op and Internship Programs in 2023.


8th in Augmented and Virtual Reality Colleges

RIT ranked 8th among the Top Augmented and Virtual Reality Colleges in the 2022 edition of Animation Career Review.


Top 50 Green Colleges

RIT has been ranked in the Princeton Review of the top 50 Green Colleges in 2023 for our commitment to creating and using green technology across campus.