William Marsh Rice University

William Marsh Rice University, commonly known as Rice University, is a private research university headquartered in Houston, Texas, United States. Established in 1912, its core mission is to provide groundbreaking research and unsurpassed education for the betterment of the world, fostering curiosity, collaboration, and empowering diverse leaders. The university operates on a 300-acre tree-lined campus within Houston's Museum District.

Rice University comprises eight constituent schools, offering over 50 undergraduate majors and numerous master's and doctoral degrees across architecture, business, continuing studies, engineering, humanities, music, natural sciences, and social sciences. Recognized as an "R1: Doctoral University – Very high research activity," Rice is particularly noted for its applied science programs in areas such as artificial heart research, nanotechnology, signal processing, and space science. Its research endeavors also extend to nanoscale science, computing, quantum studies, and public policy through institutions like the Baker Institute for Public Policy.

Reginald DesRoches assumed the presidency in 2022. The university has recently expanded its Rice Investment financial aid program, offering free tuition to students from families earning up to $200,000 annually, effective for students entering in Fall 2027. Rice is also undertaking a significant growth plan to increase its undergraduate enrollment to 5,200 students by 2028 and has launched a $2 billion capital campaign. Recent developments include a gift from Patti Lipoma Kraft and Jonathan Kraft to support a new football practice pavilion and a professorship in Jewish Studies, and the naming of its new business building as Asha and Farid Virani Hall. Rice University consistently ranks among the top 20 universities nationally.