The University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) is a public research university located in Lowell, Massachusetts. It is part of the University of Massachusetts system, which includes five campuses across the state. UMass Lowell was founded in 1894 as two separate institutions, Lowell State College and Lowell Technological Institute, which later merged in 1975 to form the University of Lowell. The university joined the UMass system in 1991, becoming UMass Lowell.
Here are some key points about UMass Lowell:
1. Academic Programs: UMass Lowell offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs through its six colleges and schools:
- College of Fine Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
- College of Education
- College of Health Sciences
- Francis College of Engineering
- Kennedy College of Sciences
- Manning School of Business
The university is known for its strong programs in engineering, business, and science and technology.
2. Rankings: UMass Lowell consistently ranks among the top public universities in the United States. According to U.S. News & World Report's 2021 rankings, UMass Lowell was ranked #176 among National Universities and #90 among Public Universities in the United States.
3. Enrollment: UMass Lowell has a diverse student population, with approximately 14,000 undergraduate students and 4,000 graduate students from various states and countries.
4. Research: UMass Lowell 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 Raytheon-UMass Lowell Research Institute, the Center for Advanced Materials, and the Center for Terrorism and Security Studies.
5. Campus: UMass Lowell has a 150-acre campus, which is divided into three sections: North Campus, South Campus, and East Campus. The university features a mix of historic and modern buildings, providing a dynamic learning environment for students.
6. Athletics: UMass Lowell is a member of the NCAA Division I and competes in the America East Conference. The university fields 17 varsity sports teams, known as the River Hawks.
7. Student Life: UMass Lowell offers a vibrant campus life, with over 200 student clubs and organizations catering to diverse interests, such as cultural groups, performing arts ensembles, service organizations, and academic groups.
8. Study Abroad: UMass Lowell encourages students to participate in study abroad programs to enhance their global perspectives and cultural understanding. The university offers a variety of study abroad opportunities, including semester-long programs, short-term trips, and international internships.
9. Notable Alumni: UMass Lowell 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 novelist Andre Dubus III, former NASA astronaut Richard Linnehan, and television producer David MacLeod.
10. Financial Aid: UMass Lowell 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 Lowell is known for its focus on engineering, science, and technology, as well as its commitment to providing a high-quality, affordable education for its diverse student population.
