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University of Massachusetts-Amherst

Amherst, MA

publicgraduate

Quick Facts

“Ense petit placidam sub libertate quietem”("By the sword we seek peace, but peace only under liberty.")

1863
Founded
Public land-grant research university
Type
31,318
Total Students
24,019
Undergrad
7,299
Graduate
$672M
Endowment
Doctoral Universities
Classification

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About University of Massachusetts-Amherst

UMass Amherst: Massachusetts' flagship public research university, driving discovery and student success.

The University of Massachusetts Amherst stands as the proud flagship campus of the UMass system, a dynamic public land-grant research university nestled in Amherst, Massachusetts. From its roots in 1863 as the Massachusetts Agricultural College, it has evolved into a powerhouse of innovation and education, committed to its land-grant mission of serving the citizens of Massachusetts and beyond. Today, it is recognized among "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity," reflecting its profound impact on research and scholarship.

Students at UMass Amherst join a vibrant and expansive community, as it boasts the largest undergraduate student population in Massachusetts, with roughly 24,000 undergraduates. This rich environment fosters diverse academic pursuits, offering an impressive array of 109 undergraduate, 77 master's, and 48 doctoral programs across its nine schools and colleges. Beyond the classroom, UMass Amherst is a distinguished member of the Five College Consortium, providing students with unparalleled access to courses and resources at Amherst College, Hampshire College, Mount Holyoke College, and Smith College.

The UMass Amherst experience extends far beyond academics. Its 21 varsity athletic teams, known as the Minutemen and Minutewomen, compete vigorously in NCAA Division I, fostering a strong sense of campus spirit. Whether cheering on the teams in the Atlantic 10 Conference, Hockey East for ice hockey, or its football program, which will join the Mid-American Conference in 2025, students are part of a proud athletic tradition. With a focus on impactful research, a welcoming community, and a legacy of academic excellence, UMass Amherst prepares its students to become leaders and innovators in a rapidly changing world.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Flagship campus of the University of Massachusetts system, designated an "R1: Doctoral Universities – Very high research activity" institution.
  • ✦Hosts the largest undergraduate student population in Massachusetts, with over 24,000 undergraduates.
  • ✦Offers an extensive academic portfolio including 109 undergraduate, 77 master's, and 48 doctoral programs.
  • ✦A proud member of the prestigious Five College Consortium, enhancing academic and social opportunities.
  • ✦Invested $211 million in research and development in 2018, underscoring its commitment to discovery.
  • ✦Home to NCAA Division I Minutemen and Minutewomen athletic teams, competing in conferences like the A10 and Hockey East, with football joining the MAC in 2025.
  • ✦Recognized as a top producer of Fulbright Award winners.

Timeline

1728
Stockbridge House, the oldest house in Amherst and now on campus, was built.
1863
Founded as the Massachusetts Agricultural College under the Morrill Land-Grant Colleges Act.
1867
Welcomed its first class of approximately 50 students.
1875
The first female student was admitted on a part-time basis.
1905
The first female students graduated.
1931
Renamed Massachusetts State College.
2003
Massachusetts State Legislature designated UMass Amherst as a research university and the flagship campus.
2008
Named a top producer of Fulbright Award winners (2008-2009 academic year).
2025
Joined the Mid-American Conference (MAC) as a full member.
🏛️
163 Years
of Excellence

Leadership

Fouad Abd-El-Khalick
Provost

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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