Quick Facts
Public urban research university committed to diversity and access
Location
Boston, MA (Dorchester campus on harbor)
Degrees
Certificates, Bachelor's, Master's, Doctorate
Popular Majors
Business/Management, Nursing, Psychology, Social Sciences, Biology, Computer Science, Criminal Justice
Total Students	Undergrad Students
15,600	12,100
Tuition (2025-2026)	Room and Board
$16,064 (In-State) $38,281 (Out-of-State)	$19,752
Selectivity	Average Net Price *
Moderately Selective (~83% acceptance rate)	$18,000
Distance from Boston	School Website
In Boston (Dorchester)
* 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.

The University of Massachusetts Boston (UMass Boston) is the only public research university in the city of Boston and a key member of the prestigious University of Massachusetts system. Established in 1964, UMass Boston serves a highly diverse student body of approximately 15,600, including around 12,100 undergraduates, with a strong commitment to access, equity, and urban engagement. As an R1 research institution, it emphasizes real-world impact through interdisciplinary programs, community partnerships, and global perspectives. U.S. News & World Report consistently recognizes UMass Boston for social mobility, diversity, and public service.

UMass Boston offers more than 200 undergraduate and graduate programs across multiple colleges, excelling in fields like nursing, business, psychology, education, public policy, and environmental sciences.

The university provides flexible learning options, including evening, weekend, online, and hybrid courses, making it ideal for working adults, first-generation students, and commuters.

Graduate and professional programs focus on advancing careers in high-demand areas such as public health, education leadership, business analytics, and conflict resolution.

UMass Boston's Beacons compete in NCAA Division III athletics (Little East Conference) with varsity teams in sports like basketball, ice hockey, soccer, tennis, and track & field.

The stunning waterfront campus in Boston's Dorchester neighborhood offers panoramic harbor views, modern facilities, and convenient public transit access to downtown Boston and beyond.

Contents

Academics>

Admission>

Career Outcomes>

Campus>

Student Life>

Graduate Schools>

International Students>

Visiting UMass Boston>

Academics

UMass Boston delivers a comprehensive, student-centered education that combines academic rigor with practical application and community relevance. Undergraduates can choose from over 100 majors, with particularly strong programs in Business Management, Nursing, Psychology, Criminal Justice, Biology, Computer Science, Exercise and Health Sciences, and Communication. The university's urban mission drives curricula focused on social justice, public service, sustainability, and global issues. Small class sizes (average 20-25 students) ensure personalized attention, while flexible scheduling—including evening, weekend, online, and hybrid formats—supports working adults and non-traditional learners. Honors programs, undergraduate research, study abroad, and service learning opportunities enrich the academic experience, preparing students for careers or advanced study.

Admission

Admission to UMass Boston is moderately selective, with an acceptance rate around 83%, reflecting its mission of broad access while maintaining academic standards. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis through the Common Application or UMass application portal, with priority deadlines for scholarships and housing consideration. The holistic review process evaluates high school GPA (average admitted ~3.4), course rigor, essays, recommendations, extracurricular activities, and personal circumstances. UMass Boston is test-optional, allowing students to choose whether to submit SAT/ACT scores. Special consideration is given to first-generation college students, veterans, and those from underrepresented backgrounds. In-state residents benefit from significantly lower tuition, and generous financial aid packages make attendance affordable for many.

Career Outcomes

UMass Boston graduates enter the workforce well-prepared, with strong employment rates and pathways to meaningful careers, particularly in public service, healthcare, education, business, and nonprofit sectors. The university's career services office provides robust support through resume workshops, interview preparation, job fairs, internship placement, and networking events. Many students gain practical experience through internships in Boston's hospitals, government agencies, schools, and corporations. The diverse alumni network and location in a major metropolitan area open doors to opportunities in growing fields. Graduates often pursue advanced degrees or leadership roles, benefiting from UMass Boston's emphasis on social mobility and real-world skills.

Campus

UMass Boston's breathtaking waterfront campus in Dorchester occupies a 177-acre peninsula with panoramic views of Boston Harbor and the city skyline. Modern facilities include the Integrated Sciences Complex, state-of-the-art nursing simulation labs, the McCormack Theater, and the recently renovated University Hall. Green spaces, walking paths, and outdoor study areas take full advantage of the coastal setting. The campus is commuter-friendly with ample parking, free shuttles to the JFK/UMass Red Line station, and easy access via I-93. Sustainability initiatives, including LEED-certified buildings and harbor cleanup partnerships, reflect the university's environmental commitment.

Student Life

UMass Boston fosters a vibrant, inclusive community primarily for commuter students, with over 100 student organizations, cultural events, leadership programs, and recreational activities creating a strong sense of belonging. The University offers on-campus housing for about 1,000 students in modern residence halls with harbor views, while most live off-campus in Boston neighborhoods. Student government, identity-based clubs, honor societies, and service organizations provide opportunities for involvement. Wellness resources, counseling, food pantry, and career advising support student success. Athletics events, arts performances, guest lectures, and harborfront gatherings add excitement. The university's diversity—students from over 140 countries and varied backgrounds—enriches social and intellectual life.

Graduate Schools

Visiting UMass Boston