Commonwealth College

If you're an academically talented student, the Commonwealth College at the University of Massachusetts Amherst offers both the advantages of a small honors college and the wide-ranging opportunities of a nationally recognized research university.
You'll find the challenges of a dynamic curriculum including interdisciplinary seminars, enriched honors courses, colloquia, independent study, service learning, and honors thesis, project, or activity. You'll find an innovative residential academic experience that maximizes active student involvement and student-faculty interaction. You'll have the opportunity to enroll in distance-learning classes taught by a team of faculty from across the Commonwealth, that combine small-group discussions with on-site professors, teleconferencing with faculty at other campuses, video presentations by experts in the field, and Internet resources. Commonwealth College also sponsors a lecture series that brings distinguished visitors to the campus to speak on selected national issues.

Independent Studies

Often a student in an area which is not covered sufficiently in any regular course. He/she may wish to pursue this interest through an Independent Study. Once a clear idea as to what to do is developed, a student would find a faculty member who is willing to advise on the project. A short agreement form (available in French 100) must be completed. PLEASE NOTE that no grade can be given unless this form is on file by the end of the pre-registration period. This is the only way we know you are enrolled in an Independent Study, and who the instructor is. This information is necessary in assigning grades; otherwise, "no grade" will be awarded (equivalent to an "F").

Studying Abroad

Students in The College of Natural Resources and the Environment have the opportunity to take advantage of a wide variety of international exchange and overseas study programs. You can choose to spend a whole year abroad or just a semester. Lack of foreign language proficiency should not deter you; there are plenty of English-speaking options, even in non-English countries. Start to investigate your options now. Most students choose to study abroad their junior year, and proper planning should enable you to graduate on time. Talk to your academic advisor or visit the International Programs Office in Hills South.

Domestic Exchange

If you want a change of pace but are not interested in studying in another country, consider spending a semester or year at another college or University in the United States. Umass students can choose to study at over 160 participating schools at no extra cost in places such as Florida, Puerto Rico, Hawaii, California or even as close to home as Connecticut. With proper planning, going on a domestic exchange should have no impact on your expected graduation date. For more information, visit the Domestic Exchange Office in 614 Goodell.

Involvement on Campus or in the Community

Make a contribution! The Office of Community Service Learning has many opportunities for all types of service projects. You’re here because you have tremendous talent and ability, and it would be a shame if you did not share that with others. Being involved also helps you develop as a person and will teach you a lot about yourself and others. Service can change you for life. Here on campus we have scholarship programs, independent studies, and service learning classes. The opportunities to make a difference are all around you. See the Office of Community Service Learning for more information.