UMass Amherst: A Land Grant Research University; a World-Class Reputation

The University of Massachusetts Amherst, founded in 1863, is the flagship of the five-campus UMass system and home to world-class faculty and students. UMass Amherst incorporates innovative teaching methods involving new communication and information technology, yet remains an immersive, residential campus offering students a comprehensive array of academic programs. True to its land grant roots, UMass Amherst is engaged in research and creative work in all fields and is classified by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching as a doctoral university with the “highest research activity” or R1.

Consistently rated as a “Top Producer of Fulbright Students,” UMass Amherst is one of the nation’s top 30 public universities, as ranked by the US News and World Report. "I am thrilled to see that UMass Amherst continues to rank among the best universities across the nation," said Fouad Abd-El-Khalick, provost and senior vice chancellor for academic affairs. "We have world-class faculty and staff supporting our students' success and preparing them to take on complex challenges as they join our communities and enter the 21st century workforce. These rankings reflect the growing excellence, leadership, and impact that are now synonymous with the UMass Amherst name."

UMass Amherst is home to over 30,000 students and 1,300 full-time faculty, and is the largest public university in Massachusetts. Diversity at UMass is more than an ideal, given the size of our institution, it is a vibrant opportunity coupled with a serious commitment to excellence and diversity. Enriching our excellence through diversity is a prominent goal at UMass Amherst. As emphasized in our diversity strategic plan, we aim to achieve “socially just learning and working environments that foster a culture of excellence through diverse people, ideas, and perspectives.” UMass believes increasing diversity in the faculty body is critical to enhancing the culture of excellence and rising prominence.