Our Commitment
The Center at Springfield embodies UMass Amherst’s commitment to cultural and economic equality and opportunity in Springfield.
UMass Amherst, one of the world’s leading research institutions, is just a 30-minute drive from downtown Springfield. Yet, that drive represents a significant barrier for many Springfield residents and their access to earning a certificate or degree. The university’s decision to invest in the Springfield Center makes a powerful statement about its mission and values.
UMass Amherst offers academic programs aligned with high-demand career opportunities available in Springfield. Once students are enrolled, we work to enhance the likelihood that our students earn their certificate, undergraduate, or master’s degree through our flexible, student-centered programming and our committed faculty and staff.
Helping Students Succeed
The Springfield Center is here to make what was impossible for many a reality. Our downtown satellite center is centrally located and easily accessible via public transportation. We help students navigate the application process and class schedule. Students plan their program around their life circumstances. They attend classes at Springfield Center, online, or a combination of both. Our supportive staff helps students acclimate to academic life and offers encouragement along the way.
Community Ties
Springfield Center staff members have strong ties to the community. They are involved in civic and community life and serve as resources to our students as they begin to think about internships and job searches. The impact the Springfield Center has on meeting the demand for job-ready employees does not go unnoticed by the city’s business leaders.
Impact
Measuring our impact requires more than anecdotal information. UMass Amherst measures the impact we are making in strengthening Springfield’s social and economic fabric.
Beyond an academic and research center, we strive to serve as a community center. We invite organizations to use our facilities and, in turn, seek opportunities to help support their missions.
Springfield is our home.