The University of Massachusetts Dartmouth (UMass Dartmouth) is a public research university located in North Dartmouth, Massachusetts. Established in 1895 as the New Bedford Textile School, it later merged with the Bradford Durfee Textile School to form the Southeastern Massachusetts Technological Institute (SMTI) in 1964. In 1991, it became part of the University of Massachusetts system and adopted its current name. UMass Dartmouth offers a broad range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs with a strong emphasis on research and community engagement.
Here are some key points about the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth:
1. Academic Programs: UMass Dartmouth offers a wide range of academic programs through its various colleges and schools:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- Charlton College of Business
- College of Engineering
- College of Visual and Performing Arts
- College of Nursing and Health Sciences
- School for Marine Science and Technology
- University Studies
2. Rankings: UMass Dartmouth is consistently ranked among the top public universities in the United States. According to the U.S. News & World Report's 2021 rankings, UMass Dartmouth was ranked #217 among National Universities.
3. Enrollment: UMass Dartmouth has a diverse student population, with approximately 7,000 undergraduate students and around 2,000 graduate students from various states and countries.
4. Research: UMass Dartmouth is classified as an R2 Doctoral University, indicating its high level of research activity. The university houses numerous research centers and institutes, such as the Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, the Center for Portuguese Studies and Culture, and the School for Marine Science and Technology.
5. Campus: UMass Dartmouth's main campus is located on 710 acres in North Dartmouth, featuring a mix of historic and modern buildings, state-of-the-art facilities, and green spaces. The campus is known for its distinctive Brutalist architecture designed by architect Paul Rudolph.
6. Athletics: UMass Dartmouth is a member of the NCAA Division III and competes in the Little East Conference (LEC) and the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC). The university fields 25 varsity sports teams, known as the Corsairs.
7. Student Life: UMass Dartmouth offers a vibrant campus life, with over 160 student clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests, such as cultural groups, performing arts ensembles, service organizations, and academic groups.
8. Community Engagement: UMass Dartmouth is committed to promoting community engagement and social responsibility. The university partners with various local, national, and international organizations on initiatives such as service-learning projects, internships, and volunteer opportunities.
9. Notable Alumni: UMass Dartmouth has a strong alumni network, with graduates pursuing careers in various fields such as academia, business, government, and non-profit organizations. Some notable alumni include artist and designer Brian McKeever, former U.S. Congressman Barney Frank, and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Dana Priest.
10. Financial Aid: UMass Dartmouth is committed to making its education accessible to students from diverse economic backgrounds, offering need-based financial aid packages that include grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study opportunities. The university also provides several merit-based scholarships.
UMass Dartmouth is known for its strong emphasis on research, community engagement, and providing students with a high-quality, well-rounded education that prepares them for success in their chosen fields.
