What is the UMass Edge?

From yesterday to today, UMass Amherst graduates have gone on to become leaders, innovators, and creators intent on making their mark. There's no denying it, our students and alumni are unconventional thinkers and risk-takers who embody our revolutionary spirit. So, what is it that gives them an edge? Our world-class academics? Our game-changing research? Our internationally respected faculty? Our commitment to progress? 

The UMass Edge is all of this and more. It is the balance between finding belonging and stepping outside your comfort zone. Between acknowledging history and looking toward the future. UMass Amherst changes the world by inspiring people to pursue opportunities that benefit the common good.

WHAT HAS UMASS AMHERST BEEN UP TO?

Welcoming One of the Most Diverse Classes in UMass Amherst History
After a second straight year of receiving more than 50,000 applications for admission, the University of Massachusetts Amherst welcomes a diverse first-year class of more than 5,300 students to campus this week.

UMass Amherst Ranked No. 26 in U.S. News & World Report’s Top Public Universities for 2025
This marks the 10th straight year that UMass Amherst has been ranked as a top public university and is the only public university in New England to place in the top 30. 

Promoting the Vitality of the Arts Through Research and Education
For 50 years and counting, the Arts Extension Service at UMass Amherst has worked at the cutting edge of arts management to invigorate local arts scenes nationwide.

Gaining New Insights into Human Behavior Through Technology
The opening of the Berthiaume Behavioral Research Lab at UMass Amherst’s Isenberg School of Management will elevate industry-relevant research and provide valuable career training for students.

Ensuring Equity in the Transition to Renewable Energy
The ELEVATE program, associated with UMass Amherst's Energy Transition Institute, supports interdisciplinary graduate student research, training, and community engagement.

Redesigning Search Engines for an AI Future
An award-winning team of UMass Amherst scientists introduces a cost-effective method evaluate the reliability of AI-generated searches. Called “eRAG,” the method is a way of putting the AI and search engine in conversation with each other, then evaluating the quality of search engines for AI use.