As part of The Arch, you will spend the summer after your sophomore year on campus separate from the rest of the student body, providing added opportunities to further develop relationships with one another and with staff and faculty members.
Living on campus as the only class not only allows you to build a stronger sense of community, it also enables you to grow personally and professionally. The required summer semester offers a slew of exclusive co-curricular activities such as student-faculty lunches, one-day pop-up courses, field trips, cultural events, recreational activities, and more!
Summer Here Planning
Students begin registering for their Arch summer term during the month of March. It is recommended that all students consult with their Academic Advisor before registering for classes. All students must register for 12 credit hours or more to be considered Full Time Equivalent (FTE).
Summer 2024
Click to view 12-week summer courses: May 20–August 16
Students can engage in Arch planning workshops every spring term before summer to develop their plans for summer and semester away. Different campus constituents will be present for students to ask specific questions about their Arch plans.
Spring 2025 Workshop Schedule -
During The Arch, students are required to live on campus for the summer after your sophomore year.
Student Living and Learning will communicate important information regarding housing selections, storing belongings, and move-in details for the summer.
If you have any questions regarding the on-campus experience, please email reslife@rpi.edu.
January 22: General Arch housing information sent to students
January 29: Arch housing applications open
March 15: Arch housing application closes
March 27: Arch Assignments Released (via RPI Email)
April 8: Spring closing email sent (w/ general ARCH move-in information)
May 5: Arch move-in information (detail) sent
“The summer semester provides students with individualized attention from their advisers, professors, and the student life staff. These experiences help them learn beyond the classroom, enhance their career skills, and grow their professional networks; preparing them for greater success in life after college.”
Related article: A Parent Reflection: The First Summer at Rensselaer