University of Massachusetts-Lowell
The Vibe Check
UMass Lowell has a gritty, hands-on energy rooted in its history as a mill town and its focus on practical innovation. It feels like a place where students work hard in state-of-the-art labs and then unwind along the scenic Pawtucket Falls. The campus blends historic brick buildings with modern facilities, creating a collaborative and industrious atmosphere.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
UMass Lowell is a powerhouse for applied sciences and engineering, with strong ties to regional industries like tech and healthcare. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and undergraduate research, particularly in its renowned engineering and computer science programs. Faculty are known for being accessible and bringing real-world experience into the classroom.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Lowell
Student life in Lowell revolves around the campus, with activities organized by student groups and the university's recreational facilities. The city offers a growing food scene, coffee shops, and access to outdoor activities like kayaking on the Merrimack River. For bigger city experiences, Boston is less than an hour away via train or car.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($64,874):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The UMass Lowell campus is generally considered safe, with a dedicated university police department and well-lit pathways. The surrounding city of Lowell has seen revitalization but students should still practice standard urban safety awareness, especially at night.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Strong co-op and internship programs with major companies in tech and engineering
- ✓ Excellent value for in-state students with high ROI
- ✓ Robust research opportunities for undergraduates in STEM fields
- ✓ Vibrant and growing campus with modern facilities like the new health and social sciences building
Cons
- ✗ Campus can feel spread out with significant uphill walking
- ✗ Social scene is more focused on campus activities than a bustling city nightlife
- ✗ Out-of-state tuition is significantly higher, reducing value for non-residents
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UMass Lowell is nationally recognized for its strong programs in engineering, computer science, and business, with a particular emphasis on hands-on, applied learning. The university is also known for its research in areas like nanotechnology, plastics engineering, and renewable energy. Its history as a center for industry and innovation in the region deeply influences its academic offerings.
No, UMass Lowell has a high acceptance rate of 85.24%, making it an accessible option for many students. The average SAT score for admitted students is around 1253, and a strong high school GPA is important. While it's not highly selective, applicants should still submit a complete application with a solid academic record to be competitive for admission and scholarships.
Campus life at UMass Lowell is active and centered around its residential and academic communities. Students can get involved in over 120 student clubs, NCAA Division I athletics, and numerous campus events. The university's location in a historic city provides a unique blend of campus community and access to local amenities and outdoor recreation along the river.
For in-state students, UMass Lowell is widely considered an excellent value, offering a high-quality STEM and business education at an affordable price. The 10-year median earnings of $64,874 and strong job placement rates in high-demand fields support a strong return on investment. For out-of-state students, the value proposition is less clear and depends heavily on the chosen major and career goals.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Suburban
- Undergrad 14,734
- In-State Tuition $16,570
- Out-of-State $35,396
- Zip Code 01854
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $18,627 and strong in-state tuition value, UMass Lowell offers a solid return on investment for Massachusetts residents. The 10-year median earnings of $64,874 are competitive, especially for graduates in high-demand fields like engineering and computer science. Out-of-state students should carefully weigh the higher tuition against the university's strong regional job placement.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.