Saunders College of Business at Rochester Institute of Technology

Student life

• Sauders Student Clubs: Engage with business-focused groups like the Business & Technology Professionals, Multicultural Business Association, Women in Business, and the Saunders Student Executive Board, each offering unique networking opportunities.
• Clubs and Organizations: With 300+ student groups spanning from art and design to STEM and gaming, there’s a community for everyone at RIT.
• Campus Traditions: Embrace RIT’s lively traditions, such as TigerFest and the Rochester Fringe Festival. These events unite students and showcase the innovative spirit of the campus.
• Finding Your Community: Diversity and inclusion are woven into the fabric of RIT. There’s a space for every student to connect, thrive, and build meaningful relationships.
• Leadership and Engagement: Enhance your leadership abilities through Momentum programs and initiatives like Into the ROC – opportunities to get involved and make an impact.
• Sports and Recreation: Whether it’s intramurals, club teams, or RIT Esports, there are plenty of ways to stay active and socialize.
• Service and Volunteer Opportunities: RIT students complete thousands of volunteer hours within the local community and beyond every year.

International community on campus

With students from over 100 countries, RIT is home to an inclusive and diverse student community. In fall 2024, they welcomed more than 1,800 international students to campus. RIT understands the unique challenges of studying abroad and provides comprehensive support to help you thrive:

• Dedicated international student advisors.
• English Language Center for academic and professional communication.
• Cultural mentorship programs.
• Immigration support and CPT/OPT guidance.
• International student organizations and cultural events

Rochester, NY

RIT’s campus is located just outside Rochester, New York, a hub for innovation, business, and culture. Here’s why Rochester is a top choice for graduate business students:

• A hub for leading industries in technology, healthcare, and manufacturing, alongside a rapidly growing startup ecosystem.
• Strong presence of Fortune 500 companies, with abundant opportunities for networking and career development.
• Recognized as one of America’s 25 Most Innovative Cities by Forbes, and as a top destination for new tech hubs by Bloomberg.
• A city full of life, offering a rich culinary scene, exciting music venues, and a dynamic arts community with renowned locations like Geva Theatre and the Rochester Broadway Theatre League.
• Outdoor lovers will appreciate the range of parks, including Ontario Beach Park and Durand Eastman Park, offering plenty of room for exploration.
• Year-round events and celebrations, from the Lilac Festival to the CGI Rochester International Jazz Festival and ROC Pride Festival, ensure the city stays vibrant and inclusive.

Accommodation

RIT offers a range of housing options tailored to suit graduate and transfer students. Whether you prefer single occupancy, residence halls, Greek housing, or apartment-style living, there's something for every budget and lifestyle. All accommodation includes laundry, utilities, and essential amenities. Plus, housing contracts align with the academic year, with no penalties for ending the contract when leaving for co-op, research, or study abroad.

You'll benefit from free transportation shuttles, secure card access, RIT Public Safety patrols, and a close partnership with the Center for Residence Life. 

Student support

Earning your MBA can be demanding, but at Saunders College of Business, students benefit from a robust network of resources and services designed to ensure their academic and professional success.

Academic Support

• Office of Student Services: Offering personalized academic advising, the Office of Student Services guides students on course selection, study abroad opportunities, and program changes. Advisors are available in person, via Zoom, or by phone.
• Academic Success Center: Providing academic coaching, tutoring, and workshops, the center helps students enhance their academic performance.
• Tutoring Services: Dedicated tutoring support is available to all students, offering individualized assistance to enhance their academic performance.
• Writing & Communication Support: Find help with writing and presentation preparation with the Writing Center and Expressive Communication Center.
• Technical Support: The Saunders Technical Support team is always ready to assist with any technical challenges, offering resources and guidance to keep you on track.

Accessibility & Inclusivity

• Student Financial Services: Committed to making education accessible, this service provides financial guidance and support.
• Support for Students with Additional Needs: There are a range of resources and support services to ensure equitable access and success for disabled and neurodiverse students.

Health and Wellness Support

• Student Health Center: Providing urgent and primary care, along with consultations on a range of health concerns, the Student Health Center ensures that students' well-being is prioritized during their studies.
• Counseling and Psychological Services: Offering confidential counseling, group therapy, psychiatric services, and crisis intervention, these services help students maintain their mental health.
• Wellness programs: You’ll find a wide variety of services and activities to support physical, emotional, and mental wellbeing.
• Case Management: The Case Management team helps students navigate personal challenges such as health insurance, housing, and financial issues by connecting them to the appropriate resources, both on and off-campus.

International Student Support

RIT provides extensive support to international students through its International Student Services, offering guidance on immigration, cultural integration, and more. RIT ensures you have the resources to thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Support includes:

• Peer Advisor Leaders (PAL) & Orientation: Each international student is paired with a Peer Advisor Leader (PAL) and participates in an orientation designed to ease the transition to life at RIT.
• Academic & Language Support: Specialized academic advising and access to the English Language Center help international students adjust to the U.S. academic environment.
• Cultural & Social Integration: A wide variety of events, workshops, and social activities are offered to foster connections and help international students feel at home in the RIT community.