Purdue University

, Stanford, CA

Purdue University was established in 1869 and stands as the flagship campus of the Purdue University System. About 270 programs are offered at the main campus in West Lafayette together with regional campuses located in Indianapolis, Fort Wayne, Westville, and Hammond in Indiana. Ten other locations throughout the state serve as schools for the Purdue College of Technology, with programs focusing on the use of information technology for both the government and business sectors.

Ranked among the best research universities in the country, Purdue's Discovery Park complex is home to the university's nanotechnology research facility along with other programs in agricultural research, engineering, and environmental studies. Research grants are provided by a number of federal executive departments as well as NASA.

Purdue also features a number of student and recreational facilities which include a sports center, aquatic center, golf courses, and a health center. In celebration of its diverse population, the university provides for cultural learning via the Black cultural center, Latino cultural center, China center, Confucius institute, as well as the Native American educational center.

Traditions and celebrations abound at Purdue, highlighted by annual Fountain Runs and a 50-mile go kart race dubbed as the Purdue Grand Prix. Involvement in intercollegiate athletic events is spearheaded by the Purdue Boilermakers, representing the university in football, basketball, tennis, and wrestling, among others.

Student housing is available both within and outside campus grounds, with an office for Off-campus Housing Services lending assistance to students seeking residency in nearby neighborhoods. A partnership with the West Lafayette City Bus provides for free transportation to all members of the Purdue community. Campus security is presided over by the university's police department.