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University of Massachusetts - Boston

Boston, United States

  • Cost of Living$ 30,984
  • Tuition Fee From$ 28,350
  • Country Rank-
  • Batch Strength63,500
  • Global Diversity14%
  • Gender Ratio50 : 50

Overview

About

The University of Massachusetts - Boston, also known as UMass Boston or UMass, is the only public land-grant university in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and is located in Boston, Massachusetts. The university was previously known as Boston State College. Founded in 1852, it is an open research university affiliated with the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities, the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, and Urban 13. 

 

It is the only public research institution in Boston. With approximately 16,000 students, UMass Boston Campus is the third-largest campus in the University of Massachusetts system. It has 12% international students from more than 150 countries. In 1965, there were 1,240 undergraduate students in the freshman classes. 'The Mass Media', the university's first student newspaper, was published in 1966. Enrollment had increased from 1,240 to 2,500 students by 1968. WUMB-FM, a folk music radio station, was founded by a group of students the same year.

 

The University of Massachusetts - Boston is a premier research university with over 28,000 students from 85 countries and 49 states. The university has ten schools and colleges that offer over 100 undergraduate majors, 78 master's programmes, and 48 doctoral programmes. The university offers undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral degree programmes, as well as professional certificate programmes. There are approximately 20 courses divided into various departments. The university provides the best campus food in the country, which is a huge plus for students staying on campus. There are over 200 student organisations where students can pursue interests apart from academics.

 

Undergraduate and postgraduate degree programmes are available at the university. The university has a total of 16,164 students. The undergraduate programme has 12,714 students, and the postgraduate programme has approximately 3,450 students. The university's academic structure consists of eight colleges: Liberal Arts College, Science & Mathematics College, Management College, Education & Human Development College, Nursing & Health Sciences College, Environment College, Advancing & Professional Studies College, and Public & Community Service College. Students are mentored by experienced faculty members. The university also has exchange programmes for students.

Ranking

The University of Massachusetts Boston, a public research institution founded in 1964, has shown mixed performance in recent rankings. In 2024, the university achieved significant improvement in the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings, rising to 123rd place from 191st in 2023 and 201st in 2022. The US News & World Report National University rankings also reflect progress, with the university climbing to 216th position in 2024, up from 227th in 2022. However, the institution has experienced a decline in the QS World University Rankings, dropping to 801st in 2024 from 551st in 2023, with a further projected decrease to 1001st in 2025. Despite these fluctuations, the University of Massachusetts Boston has continued to be recognised by major global ranking organisations since 2021, highlighting its ongoing dedication to academic excellence and research impact on an international scale.

 

University of Massachusetts Boston - QS Ranking 2025

In 2025, the University of Massachusetts Boston is ranked 1001st in the QS World University Rankings, marking a decrease from its position in 2024 at 801st and its ranking in 2023 at 551st.

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

World University

551

801

1001

 

University of Massachusetts Boston - US News & World Report Ranking 2024

According to the US News & World Report rankings, the University of Massachusetts Boston has seen a mixed performance across different categories. In the Global Universities ranking, it was ranked 417 in 2022 and 487 in 2023. However, in the National Universities category, the university has shown improvement, moving from 227 in 2022 to 216 in 2024. These rankings reflect the university's efforts to strengthen its academic programmes and research initiatives both domestically and internationally.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Global Universities

417

487

-

National University

227

234

216

 

University of Massachusetts Boston - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

In 2024, the University of Massachusetts Boston is ranked 123rd in the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings, showing significant improvement from its 2023 position of 191st and its 2022 ranking of 201st.

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

University

201

191

123

 

Learn More About: University of Massachusetts Boston’s Admission

 

University of Massachusetts Boston - QS Ranking 2025

Ranked by

2023

2024

2025

Accounting and Finance

301

-

-

Biological Sciences

501

-

-

Communication and Media Studies

201

-

-

Masters in Business Analytics

81

91

-

Nursing

101

-

-

Physics and Astronomy

401

501

-

 

University of Massachusetts Boston - US News & World Report Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Best Graduate Nursing Schools

63

58

66

UG Business

143

164

159

 

University of Massachusetts Boston - THE (Times Higher Education) Ranking 2024

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

Arts and Humanities

126

101

73

Clinical and Health

301

301

126

Engineering

126

126

88

Life Sciences

92

78

70

PG Business and Economics

126

126

80

PG Computer Science

81

85

57

Psychology

176

151

101

 

Course Rankings

BBA

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

US News & World Report - UG Business

143

164

159

 

LL.M.

Ranked by

2022

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Law

101

 

M.A.

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

QS - Communication and Media Studies

-

201

201

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences

301

301

301

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Sociology

-

-

151

THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities

-

126

101

 

Learn More About: University of Massachusetts Boston’s Courses

MIM

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Accounting and Finance

-

301

-

QS - Masters in Business Analytics

71

81

91

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

126

126

80

 

MS

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Physics and Astronomy

401

401

501

QS - Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

451

-

-

QS - Biological Sciences

501

501

-

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

92

78

70

THE (Times Higher Education) - Engineering

126

126

88

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science

81

85

57

 

MSN

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Nursing

101

101

-

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Nursing Schools

63

58

66

 

Others PG

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

176

151

101

THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health

301

301

126

 

Accounting & Commerce

Ranked by

2023

QS - Accounting and Finance

301

 

Arts ( Fine / Visual / Performing )

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Arts and Humanities

126

101

73

 

Business & Management Studies

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Masters in Business Analytics

71

81

91

US News & World Report - UG Business

143

164

159

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

126

126

80

 

Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

451

-

-

THE (Times Higher Education) - Engineering

126

126

88

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science

81

85

57

 

Humanities & Social Sciences

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences

301

301

301

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Sociology

-

-

151

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

-

176

151

 

Law

Ranked by

2022

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Law

101

 

Mass Communication & Media

Ranked by

2022

2023

QS - Communication and Media Studies

201

201

 

Medicine & Health Sciences

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Clinical and Health

301

301

126

 

Nursing

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Nursing

101

101

-

US News & World Report - Best Graduate Nursing Schools

63

58

66

 

Science

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Physics and Astronomy

401

401

501

QS - Biological Sciences

501

501

-

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

92

78

70

 

Biology

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Biological Sciences

501

501

-

THE (Times Higher Education) - Life Sciences

92

78

70

 

Business Analytics

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Masters in Business Analytics

71

81

91

 

Business Economics

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Business and Economics

126

126

80

 

Computer Science Engineering

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - PG Computer Science

81

85

57

 

Mechanical Engineering

Ranked by

2022

QS - Mechanical Aeronautical and Manufacturing Engineering

451

 

Physics

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

QS - Physics and Astronomy

401

401

501

 

Accounting

Ranked by

2023

QS - Accounting and Finance

301

 

Political Science

Ranked by

2021

2022

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Political Sciences

301

301

301

 

Psychology

Ranked by

2022

2023

2024

THE (Times Higher Education) - Psychology

176

151

101

 

Sociology

Ranked by

2023

ARWU (Shanghai Ranking) - Sociology

151

Year

QS Ranks

US News Ranks

2025

#1001 - 1200

-

2024

#1001 - 1200

#675

Facilities

There are numerous residence halls, administrative buildings, libraries, labs, playing fields, recreation facilities, and fine arts centres on campus. The university contributes significantly to the local art scene, and there are numerous sightseeing opportunities nearby. The university has over 400 active groups in which students can participate. The campus is home to some of the best art museums and galleries in the country, including the Augusta Savage Gallery and the Hampden Gallery. Every year, approximately 200 varsity events are held on campus. The University Of Massachusetts - Boston facilities also include-

 

Student Services: The Student Affairs and Campus Life community actively promotes diversity, equity, and inclusion, which are based on fundamental ideals of empathy, concern, and care for others. The university focuses on eight critical tasks that, when combined, create a positive living and learning environment that encourages retention, graduation, and post-college success.

 

Housing Services: There are 52 residence halls, which include traditional halls, suites, and apartments. Whether you prefer a neighbourhood in the heart of campus or a residential area nestled among rolling hills, a high-rise tower or a red brick residence hall, a suite or a regular room, the university has housing options to meet your needs and preferences. Each residential area includes recreational and social centres, kitchenettes, and cultural centres in addition to the usual bedrooms, study spaces, laundry rooms, television rooms, and dining facilities.

 

Library Services: The Libraries promote a diverse, inclusive, and user-centred environment in which students can engage with ideas and develop the skills required for independent learning and critical thinking as key partners in teaching, learning, and research during their time at the university.

 

ICT Services: Information technologies at the Commonwealth's premier research campus support the university's core mission of teaching, learning, research, and engagement by leveraging technology to achieve new levels of excellence.

 

Medical Services: With a focus on the requirements and issues of college students, The university offers complete health and wellness services to the campus community.

 

Sports Facilities: For members of the campus community and users of recreation facilities such as the Recreation Centre, Boyden gymnasium, handball/squash courts and pool, Curry Hicks pool, Turf Fields, and Mullins tennis courts, the university maintains a safe and healthy environment.

Notable Alumni

Paul English
Paul English
American entrepreneur and computer scientist
Joseph P. Kennedy II
Joseph P. Kennedy II
Former United States Representative ‧ Robert F. Kennedy's son
William Bratton
William Bratton
Former New York City Police Commissioner

Courses

Admission

Acceptance Rate

University of Massachusetts - Boston has an acceptance rate of 81% for 2024 applicants. This means that it is in the middle in terms of the difficulty of admission among universities in the United States. Therefore applicants aiming for this university have to be particular in terms of grades and scores raised by the university.

 

The University of Massachusetts - Boston Entry Requirements

More than 95% of the faculty members are committed to providing high-quality education and hold the highest degree in their fields. The student-faculty ratio at UMass Boston is 18:1, due to the university's more than 1,400 full-time instructors. The average class size is 36 students, with about 81% of classes having fewer than 40 students.

The application process is very concise at UMass Boston, offering programmes leading to undergraduate and graduate degrees. While submitting an application as an international student, keep the following University of Massachusetts - Boston entry requirements in mind:

 

Undergraduate Admission Requirements-

  • Official academic transcripts
  • Financial proof
  • Bank statements, affidavit of sponsor
  • Academic LOR submitted by a recommender, preferably an academic teacher
  • SAT/ACT scores
  • Interview
  • English proficiency test scores

 

Graduate Admission Requirements-

 

  • All academic transcripts
  • Competitive GPA (average: 3.1-3.8/4.0 ~87-93%)
  • Statement of purpose
  • Resume or CV
  • 2 letters of recommendation
  • GRE/GMAT scores (Average GMAT score: 648)
  • English language proficiency test scores

 

The University of Massachusetts - Boston English Proficiency Requirements

 

The table below lists the IELTS and TOEFL requirements for the University of Massachusetts- Boston. Scores for undergraduate and graduate programmes are listed below.

 

Test

Undergraduate

Graduate

IELTS

6.0

6.5

TOEFL iBT

80

80

PTE

58

61

 

The University Of Massachusetts - Boston Fees

 

Listed below are the University of Massachusetts - Boston fees based on different courses for international students-

 

  • M.S Business Analytics - $40,862 /Yr
  • M.S Computer Science - $40,862 /Yr
  • M.B.A - $40,862 /Yr
  • M.B.A Business Analytics - $40,862 /Yr
  • M.S Biotechnology - $40,862 /Yr
  • M.B.A Supply Chain and Service Management - $40,862 /Yr

 

Placements

Strong employment statistics have always been a feature of the university, with the top employers including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, IBM, Apple, etc. The university’s median annual salary is $112,000. When it comes to the University Of Massachusetts - Boston placements, about 90% of MS graduates and 83% of BS/BA graduates from the class of 2022 are working or going to college.

 

Students from the Isenberg School of Management at the University of Massachusetts - Boston land jobs with organisations like Oracle, Ernst and Young, Bose Corp, Citigroup, Amazon, Dell EMC, Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and others. Graduates from business schools typically earn $60,241 annually. The university provides students with a variety of on-campus jobs. Additionally, it has connections to a number of businesses and organisations that could aid students in finding side jobs to go along with their studies.

Scholarship

UMass Boston does not offer scholarships to international freshmen but there are a limited number of scholarships that may be available for continuing international students. It is pertinent to note that international students do not qualify for federal or state grants. International students are advised to check the specific eligibility for each scholarship to see if they qualify before applying.

Below are lists of scholarships for international students in the USA and awards of grants that international students may qualify for:

 

Name of the Scholarship

Amount

The Putnam UMass Scholarships

$1,000

The Halal Alamgir Memorial Scholarships

$2,606

The Rusty Simonds Award

$3,549

 

No matter your chosen field of study, the University of Massachusetts - Boston, alongside various other institutions such as UniScholars, offers numerous scholarship avenues. With a wealth of scholarships currently accessible, international students can substantially mitigate the financial challenges associated with studying in a foreign land. Consider contacting UniScholars to apply for external scholarships enabling you to pursue your academic goals at the university. 

Finances

Most international students are obligated to show proof of sufficient funds in order to obtain a visa. While some students may have the opportunity to make use of scholarships, not all students cut the eligibility to get a scholarship or a grant. Moreover, not all scholarships cover 100% of your study abroad expenses. At such times, most students resort to acquiring education loans to avoid the financial hassles associated with studying at the university. For Indian students, UniCreds is the ideal education loan marketplace if you’re looking for low-interest rates and free consultation services!

Accommodation

There are several student housing options available for students planning to attend the University of Massachusetts - Boston. You may select from a wide choice of affordable yet elegant student flats, halls of residence, studios, ensuites, and more! You have the option of staying on campus in the university halls of residence or in a private residence. Because of their proximity to the university, on-campus housing options may be ideal; nevertheless, they tend to fill up fast and are more expensive.

 

UniAcco simplifies the process of finding student housing and offers a variety of options. As a result, students can select from a wide range of available student accommodations near the university, such as luxury studios, en-suites, and shared apartments that are more inexpensive and student-friendly.

Cost of Living

Boston is one of the best cities for international students, providing a welcoming and relaxed environment. The city is home to the renowned University of Massachusetts - Boston, which is ranked at the top of institutions worldwide, offering a diverse range of outstanding study options. The city provides excellent study opportunities as well as the feel of a big city while maintaining the safety and friendliness of a small one. The overall living costs for international students are much more affordable in the city. The breakdown of living costs is provided below to assist you in planning your budget -

 

Item

Cost (Per Month)

Off-Campus Accommodation

$1,808

On-Campus Accommodation

$1,251

Transportation

$132

Food 

$406

Utility 

$181

Entertainment

$60

Groceries

$68

Clothes

$108

Health Insurance

$80

Total Cost of Living with Off-Campus Accommodation (Per Month)

$2,843

Total Cost of Living with On-Campus Accommodation (Per Month)

$2,286

Annual Cost of Living

$34,116

 

 

The above data is sourced from Cost of Living in Boston on UniAcco.

FAQs