Duncan Hall, home of computational engineering at Rice
In its earliest days, Rice offered courses in chemical, civil, mechanical and electrical engineering. Over the years, the engineering program grew, and in 1975 the George R. Brown School of Engineering was established, and named after George R. Brown, a major donor and co-founder of Brown & Root Inc. Presently, the school comprises nine academic departments and includes 16 research institutes and centers. One third of Rice's students are engineering majors.
Teaching
Among the more than 100 engineering faculty are 13 members of the National Academies of Engineering and Science. Students work closely with professors, often working in labs and research projects. Departments and centers within the school of engineering take advantage of Houston's role as a center for the energy industry, medical research, space exploration, and the city's rapidly growing high-technology sector. Several departments have active industrial affiliates programs, and many research projects are undertaken with local companies. Students benefit from these relationships through collaborative research projects, summer internships, and making contacts for employment before graduation.
