The OGA Gen Ed Committee evaluates courses taught abroad to determine their eligibility for UMass Gen Ed credit. Courses that have already been submitted for review are listed on the Global Education Gen Ed Database.
Global Education Gen Ed Database
Gen Ed Review Request
Before requesting a review, always check the Global Education Gen Ed Database to see if the course has already been evaluated.
- If the course is listed with a Gen Ed designation, it will automatically count for Gen Ed credit—no review or permission needed.
- If the course is listed as “not approved” or doesn’t have the Gen Ed designation you want, do not resubmit it for review.
- If the course is not listed, you may submit a Gen Ed Review Request.
It's important to note...
- The OGA Gen Ed Committee will not re-review courses that are already in the database.
- A database listing does not guarantee the course will be offered while you’re abroad.
- The OGA Gen Ed Committee cannot review courses on Faculty-Taught Programs.
- In rare cases, if the course is an exact equivalent of a UMass Amherst course, the UMass course designation—including its Gen Ed status or lack thereof—applies and supersedes any Global Education Gen Ed designation.
How to Submit a Gen Ed Review Request
First, check the Global Education Gen Ed Database to see if the course has already been evaluated. If it has not, you may submit a review request. You will need the following information:
- Course title
- Course number (if available)
- Official syllabus (link to the syllabus or a full PDF). The syllabus must show the complete course content.
Global Education Gen Ed Review Request
Three-Credits Gen Eds
You can use 3 credit courses abroad to meet UMass Gen Ed requirements. To do so, you must switch to Transfer Student Gen Ed requirements. This change allows a three-credit course to fulfill a Gen Ed requirement but also requires two additional Gen Ed courses in any area except writing; some students will need extra coursework, while others have already completed additional Gen Eds in the course of their degree requirements.
If you plan to use a three‑credit Gen Ed course taken abroad to satisfy Gen Ed requirements and you entered UMass as a first‑year student, request to change your Gen Ed status in SPIRE from "Freshman" to "Transfer" after your credits are visible on SPIRE.
For guidance ahead of your upcoming program, please consult your Academic Advisor.
To file a Request for Change to Transfer General Education Requirements form, visit Transfer Credit Services in 213 Whitmore or email @email.