Quick Facts
Public community college with open access and strong transfer programs
Location
Wellesley Hills and Framingham, MA
Degrees
Certificates, Associate's
Popular Majors
Liberal Arts/General Studies, Nursing, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Computer Science, Automotive Technology, Biotechnology
Total Students	Undergrad Students
~4,000	All undergraduate
Tuition (2025-2026, in-state full-time)	Room and Board
$5,928	No on-campus housing
Selectivity	Average Net Price *
Open Admission	$11,000
Distance from Boston	School Website
15 miles west
* Average Net Price is the actual average cost to students for attending the college. This is calculated by adding the cost of attendance (tuition, fees and room and board where applicable) and subtracting the average amount of federal, state/local government, or institutional grant or scholarship aid.

Massachusetts Bay Community College (MassBay), founded in 1961, is a public two-year institution serving the MetroWest region west of Boston. As an open-access college, MassBay provides affordable pathways to associate degrees, certificates, workforce training, and seamless transfer to four-year universities. With campuses in Wellesley Hills, Framingham, and Ashland, the college emphasizes equity, inclusion, and student success for a diverse population including first-generation, working, and international learners.

MassBay offers over 70 academic programs, with popular pathways in liberal arts for transfer, nursing, business, criminal justice, computer science, automotive technology, and biotechnology.

The college supports flexible learning with day, evening, weekend, online, and hybrid courses to accommodate busy schedules.

As a community college, MassBay specializes in two-year degrees with strong articulation agreements to Massachusetts public universities and private partners.

MassBay fields competitive NJCAA teams in basketball, soccer, and other sports.

The Wellesley Hills and Framingham campuses offer modern facilities with commuter-friendly access near Boston.

Contents

Academics>

Admission>

Career Outcomes>

Campus>

Student Life>

Transfer Pathways>

International Students>

Visiting MassBay>

Academics

Massachusetts Bay Community College offers accessible, high-quality education through more than 70 associate degree and certificate programs designed for transfer or direct workforce entry. Popular options include Liberal Arts/General Studies (for seamless university transfer), Nursing, Business Administration, Criminal Justice, Computer Science, Automotive Technology, and Biotechnology. Classes are available in multiple formats—day, evening, weekend, online, and hybrid—to support working adults and commuters. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, while free tutoring, learning communities, honors courses, and service-learning projects enhance engagement. MassBay's focus on career readiness and academic foundations prepares students for immediate employment or successful transfer to bachelor's programs.

Admission

Massachusetts Bay Community College maintains an open admission policy, welcoming all applicants with a high school diploma, GED, or equivalent—no entrance exams or minimum GPA required for most programs. Applications are free and accepted year-round on a rolling basis, with recommended deadlines for financial aid and selective health programs (e.g., Nursing requires additional steps like TEAS exam and prerequisites). Placement testing in English and math helps determine starting course levels, with support available for skill-building. International students follow specific guidelines for transcripts and English proficiency. This accessible approach makes MassBay an ideal starting point for first-generation college students, adult learners, veterans, and those seeking a second chance at higher education.

Career Outcomes

MassBay graduates achieve strong results, with many entering the workforce directly in high-demand fields or transferring to complete bachelor's degrees. Career services provide resume assistance, job fairs, internship connections, and employer partnerships in MetroWest and Boston region. Popular pathways lead to roles in healthcare, business, public safety, technology, and automotive. The college's workforce training programs and certificates align with regional needs, offering quick entry into growing sectors. Transfer students benefit from guaranteed admission agreements (MassTransfer) to Massachusetts public universities, ensuring smooth progression and credit acceptance. Alumni report high satisfaction with MassBay's practical preparation and support for long-term success.

Campus

MassBay's main Wellesley Hills campus features modern buildings, green spaces, and easy commuter access, while the Framingham campus serves additional communities with specialized facilities. Both locations offer updated classrooms, science labs, library, fitness center, and student lounges. Public transit and parking support commuters, while partnerships with nearby institutions enrich resources. The campuses reflect MassBay's community mission—welcoming, diverse, and focused on student achievement.

Student Life

MassBay fosters an inclusive, supportive community for its diverse commuter population, with students from varied backgrounds and many countries. Over 50 clubs and organizations—covering cultural, academic, leadership, and special interest groups—offer ways to connect and lead. Events like cultural festivals, guest speakers, wellness workshops, and service projects build community. Athletics include competitive NJCAA teams in basketball, soccer, and other sports. Support services such as food pantry, counseling, childcare assistance, and veteran resources address real needs. While primarily commuter-focused, the college fosters belonging through lounges, activities, and advocacy for student voices.

Transfer Pathways

Visiting MassBay