The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) is a private research university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. It is often ranked as one of the world's most prestigious universities. 

Founded in 1861 in response to the increasing industrialization of the United States, MIT adopted a European polytechnic university model and stressed laboratory instruction in applied science and engineering. Researchers worked on computers, radar and inertial guidance during World War II and the Cold War. Post-war defense research contributed to the rapid expansion of the faculty and campus under James Killian. The current campus opened in 1916 and extends over along the northern bank of the Charles River basin. 

The Institute is traditionally known for its research and education in the physical sciences and engineering, but more recently in biology, economics, linguistics and management as well. MIT is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU). For several years, MIT's School of Engineering has been ranked first in various international and national university rankings, while MIT is also often ranked among the world's top universities overall. The MIT Engineers compete in 31 sports, most teams of which compete in the NCAA Division III's New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference, whereas the Division I rowing programs compete as part of the EARC and EAWRC.
Is the school a top ranked one
 ranked first