University of Massachusetts, Amherst

One of today's leading centers of public higher education in the Northeast, the University of Massachusetts Amherst was established in 1863 under the original Land Grant Act. In recent decades it has achieved a growing reputation for excellence in an increasing number of disciplines, for the breadth of its academic offerings, and for the expansion of its historic roles in education, research, and outreach. A large number of faculty, especially in the physical sciences and engineering, actively engage in sponsored activities. Research expenditures in the past year totaled more than $100 million. An increase in applications has made enrollment more selective. Within its 10 schools and colleges the University offers bachelor's degrees in 90 areas, master's degrees in 68, and the doctorate in 49. Ninety-four percent of the approximately 1,063 full-time faculty hold the highest degree in their fields. There are approximately 24,000 students, made up of nearly 18,000 undergraduates and 6,000 graduates, including part-time. The University prides itself on the diversity of its student body, and is committed to the principles of affirmative action, civility, equal opportunity,and the free exchange of ideas. Located in the historic Pioneer Valley of Western Massachusetts, the 1,450-acre campus provides a rich cultural environment in a rural setting. The University is one of the founding members of the Five College cooperative program, offering reciprocal student access among the University, and Amherst, Hampshire, Mount Holyoke, and Smith colleges. The University of Massachusetts Amherst is the flagship campus of the Commonwealth's university system. There are three other undergraduate campuses, at Boston, Dartmouth and Lowell. The University's Worcester Medical School includes the medical school and associated teaching hospital.

School Philosophy

UMass Architecture provides an accessible, intellectually rigorous design education that firmly grounds students in the art and science of the built environment The interdisciplinary, collaborative program embraces spirited,socially progressive, and environmentally responsive design. As New England's first public architecture program, the faculty and students engage the region as a laboratory for integrated teaching, research, and outreach.