Frequently Asked Questions
- What is OPSAS?
- What can OPSAS do for me?
- How do the OPSAS academic support programs advocate for students?
- Can I work with an OPSAS staff member for advising?
- What do the cultural centers do?
- Are the cultural centers open daily?
- Are the cultural Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) part of OPSAS?
- Do I need to enroll in programs within OPSAS?
- Once I’m enrolled in an OPSAS program, do I have to continue my involvement through all four years?
- How can I find out more about the programs?
What is OPSAS?
The Office of Programs & Services (OPSAS) is an umbrella administrative organization for our academic support programs and cultural enrichment programs. We also provide student development opportunities as well as support for institutional diversity on the UMass Amherst campus.
What can OPSAS do for me?
OPSAS provides funding for student and professional development, credit for inter-group dialogues as well as events that celebrate the wide-range of racial and ethnic groups on-campus.
How do the OPSAS academic support programs advocate for students?
Our academic support programs help monitor student progress through their undergraduate career. They work with offices across campus to help with a variety of issues that students encounter along their path toward graduation.
Can I work with an OPSAS staff member for advising?
We can help you understand your degree audit, scheduling timelines and give you insight on course difficulty and content, but we strongly encourage students to establish a relationship with Undergraduate Advising or their department advisors.
What do the cultural centers do?
The cultural centers provide cultural enrichment, social and educational activities to enhance the experience of ALANA students and the UMass Amherst community.
Are the cultural centers open daily?
Each cultural center has its own individual schedule. See Locations for more information.
Are the cultural Registered Student Organizations (RSOs) part of OPSAS?
No. The cultural RSOs are advised by the Center for Student Development's Advising and Programming unit and funded through the Student Government Association (SGA). Our office collaborates with these RSOs on educational, social and cultural programming. We also offer these RSOs grant opportunities.
Do I need to enroll in programs within OPSAS?
Although enrollment is not required, we encourage students to fill out an affiliation card at our offices. This provides us with the information we need to better serve you. If you are applying to UMass Amherst, you may also check off any of the programs listed under Special Interest Programs on the application.
Once I’m enrolled in an OPSAS program, do I have to continue my involvement through all four years?
No. Participation in OPSAS is optional. However, navigating the university becomes easier the longer you are involved with the programs. Also, continued involvement provides opportunities for leadership and professional development.
