Survey and Evaluation Research

ASER provides survey data and analyses to inform and support evidence-based practice, decision making, benchmarking, and strategic planning. We also work with administrators and faculty to evaluate University programs and services by gathering and analyzing institutional, survey, and/or focus group data, as needed. ASER designs and conducts a wide array of periodic and ad hoc surveys to meet University assessment and planning needs. We also direct the administration of externally developed national surveys in which UMass Amherst participates, and we provide consultation and support for other campus surveys.

ASER works to promote survey research best practices and to foster a campus survey climate that supports high survey participation rates among students, staff, and faculty. To this end, ASER collaborates with University Analytics and Institutional Research, the SACL Director of Assessment, and others to coordinate campus surveys through the UMass Amherst Campus Survey Coordination Committee. The Survey Coordination Procedures are designed to diminish over surveying, reduce survey fatigue, eliminate conflicting survey administrations, and facilitate collaboration and data sharing across University units.

ASER’s evaluation research activities include surveys, focus groups, and more comprehensive program evaluations. 

Surveys of Undergraduates: Entering First Year Student Survey (EFYS), Graduating Senior Survey, and the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE)

Surveys of Graduate Students: Doctoral Student Experiences Survey, Master’s Student Experiences Survey

Other Surveys include the Campus Climate Survey, Modern Workplace Survey, COVID Disruption Surveys, Sustainability Survey, Faculty AFR/ALR Survey, and Dining Services Customer Survey

Evaluation Research: Surveys, Program Evaluations, Focus Groups, and Periodic Performance Reviews

Survey Coordination and Procedures: Survey Coordination Procedures and Scope, University Survey Calendar, UMass Amherst Survey Request Form