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University of Massachusetts Amherst

Address: University of Massachusetts Amherst, Amherst, MA 01003, USA
Phone: +1 413-545-0111
Email: admissions@umass.edu
Website: www.umass.edu


About University of Massachusetts Amherst

A leading center for public higher education in the Northeast, the University of Massachusetts Amherst has gained a reputation for excellence in a growing number of fields for its wide and varied academic offerings and for its expanding historic roles in education, research, and public service. The flagship campus of the Commonwealth's University system, the University of Massachusetts Amherst is a major research university enrolling over 30,000 students, from 49 United States and over 85 countries. Its 10 schools and colleges offer over 100 undergraduate majors, 78 master's and 48 doctoral programs. Sponsored research activities total over $200 million a year. Located on 1,460-acres in the scenic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, the campus provides a rich cultural environment in a rural setting close to major urban centers. As a member of the Five College consortium, the university shares a mutually rewarding relationship with students from Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith colleges.

Why University of Massachusetts Amherst

  1. Flagship Public Research University:

    • UMass Amherst is the largest public university in Massachusetts and the flagship campus of the University of Massachusetts system. It is classified as an R1: Doctoral University, denoting very high research activity. UMass Amherst is known for its strong academic programs, cutting-edge research, and commitment to public service, ranking among the top public universities in the U.S.
  2. Engineering and Computer Science Excellence:

    • The College of Engineering and the College of Information and Computer Sciences (CICS) are particularly well-regarded, with nationally ranked programs in artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and cybersecurity. UMass Amherst has consistently been at the forefront of technological innovation, with major contributions in fields like renewable energy, big data, and autonomous systems
  3. Pioneering Food Science Program:

    • The university’s Food Science Department is considered one of the top programs globally. It is known for its research in areas like food safety, food chemistry, and functional foods. The department has helped shape policies and innovations related to food preservation, health, and nutrition​
  4. Notable Research in Social Sciences and Humanities:

    • UMass Amherst has strong programs in economics, linguistics, and psychology, with a particular focus on public policy, environmental sustainability, and social justice. The W.E.B. Du Bois Department of Afro-American Studies is one of the oldest Black Studies departments in the U.S. and is named after the famous civil rights activist and scholar​
  5. Isenberg School of Management:

    • The Isenberg School of Management is one of the top business schools in the U.S., especially recognized for its online MBA program and strong ties to entrepreneurship and sports management​).
  6. Sustainability Initiatives:

    • UMass Amherst has a major focus on sustainability and is considered a leader in green campus initiatives. The university’s sustainability efforts have earned it recognition for its commitment to reducing its environmental impact through energy efficiency, recycling, and sustainable food practices

  • In-State Students: Approximately $16,952 per year.
  • Out-of-State Students: Approximately $38,171 per year. This includes tuition, fees, and other associated costs. Detailed information can be found on the UMass Amherst Financial Aid page​ (Cost and Fee).

International students must demonstrate English proficiency through TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo English Test. The specific score requirements vary by program but generally require a minimum TOEFL score of 80 or equivalent. More details are available on the UMass Amherst International Admissions page​ (Language Requirements).

  • Undergraduate: Requires the Common Application or Coalition Application, high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores (optional for 2023-2024), essays, and letters of recommendation.
  • Graduate: Typically includes a completed application, transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and GRE scores for some programs. More details can be found on the UMass Amherst Graduate Admissions page​ (Apply)​

The University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) is known for its strong academic programs across various disciplines. Notable specialties include:

  • Engineering: The College of Engineering offers highly ranked programs in chemical, civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering.
  • Computer Science: The College of Information and Computer Sciences is recognized for its expertise in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science.
  • Business: The Isenberg School of Management is well-regarded for its programs in finance, marketing, and sport management.
  • Food Science: UMass Amherst has one of the oldest and most prestigious food science programs in the U.S., focusing on food safety and food engineering.
  • Public Health: The School of Public Health and Health Sciences offers comprehensive programs in public health, preparing students for careers in health services and policy​.

UMass Amherst is a leading research university with significant contributions in fields such as food science, engineering, and public health. The university houses numerous research centers and institutes that foster interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation​ (Research)​

UMass Amherst offers over 200 undergraduate majors and more than 70 graduate programs across its various colleges and schools. The university is known for its interdisciplinary approach and opportunities for undergraduate research​ (Study Program).

UMass Amherst offers a variety of scholarships for both in-state and out-of-state students. These include merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, and specific scholarships for academic and extracurricular achievements. More information can be found on the UMass Amherst Financial Aid page​ (Scholarship).

The International Programs Office (IPO) at UMass Amherst provides extensive support for international students, including visa and immigration advising, orientation programs, and ongoing support for academic and cultural adjustment​ (International).

The UMass Amherst Career Development and Professional Connections Hub offers extensive support for job placement and career development, including job fairs, resume workshops, and internship placements. The university's strong alumni network also provides valuable connections in various industries​ (UMass System).

  • James Kurose (Computer Science)

    • Field: Computer Networks and Internet Protocols.
    • Recognition: Kurose is a leading expert in computer networking and has co-authored a widely used textbook on the subject, "Computer Networking: A Top-Down Approach". He is a former Assistant Director for Computer and Information Science and Engineering at the National Science Foundation (NSF), where he influenced national research policy​
  • Sandra Petersen (Veterinary and Animal Sciences)

    • Field: Endocrinology and Neurodevelopment.
    • Recognition: Petersen has made significant contributions to the study of how environmental toxins affect neurodevelopment and endocrine function. She has received numerous awards for her research and has been a strong advocate for increasing diversity in STEM fields
  • David Julian McClements (Food Science)

    • Field: Food Science and Nutritional Biochemistry.
    • Recognition: McClements is a leading expert in nanotechnology in foods and the development of functional foods. He has authored numerous influential papers on food chemistry, and his work has significantly impacted the food industry in terms of food safety and innovation​
  • Shlomo Zilberstein (Artificial Intelligence)

    • Field: AI and Decision-Making.
    • Recognition: Zilberstein is known for his work in artificial intelligence, particularly in areas related to autonomous systems and decision-making under uncertainty. He is widely respected for his research on multi-agent systems and has contributed to the development of AI systems that can operate in dynamic, real-world environments​

UMass Amherst has been associated with several Nobel laureates, reflecting its contributions to groundbreaking research and global impact, particularly in the fields of physics and chemistry​ (Nobel).