Acceptance Rate
83%
Avg. SAT
1370
75th percentile
“A dynamic public university in Lowell, MA, blending hands-on tech and engineering with a gritty, industrial-city spirit.”
Lowell, MA
Location
Large Suburb
Campus Setting
Nestled in the historic mill town of Lowell, Massachusetts, the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UML) carries a legacy of innovation rooted in its founding as two separate institutions in the late 19th century, which merged in 1975 to form the modern university. Originally focused on textile education and teacher training, UML has evolved into a comprehensive public research university with a knack for practical, career-ready learning. Its location along the Merrimack River, in a city once at the heart of the Industrial Revolution, infuses the campus with a no-nonsense, hardworking ethos that mirrors Lowell’s blue-collar past. Today, with over 15,000 undergraduates, it’s a bustling hub for students who value affordability and real-world impact over prestige or sprawling rural campuses.
If you’re a pragmatic, self-motivated student who thrives on solving tangible problems—especially in fields like engineering or business—you’ll feel right at home here. UML attracts a diverse crowd, many of whom are first-generation college students or commuters balancing work and study, so the vibe is grounded and focused rather than rah-rah or overly social. However, if you crave a tight-knit, traditional college-town experience with endless school spirit, you might find UML’s urban, commuter-heavy atmosphere a bit impersonal. The surrounding city of Lowell offers a mix of cultural gems like the Lowell National Historical Park, but it’s not a polished college town, and the gray, industrial feel and harsh New England winters can wear on some.
Still, there’s a certain charm in Lowell’s grit, from its historic brick mills to its growing arts scene, and UML students often embrace this underdog spirit. The campus itself, split between north and south sides along the river, mixes modern facilities with a functional, unpretentious layout. For those willing to dive into a place that prioritizes substance over flash, UML offers a unique blend of opportunity and resilience.
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Admissions
Acceptance Rate
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Average GPA
Application Fee
Academics
Student-Faculty Ratio
Programs Offered
Full-Time Faculty
Women Faculty
Research Spending
Available Online
Degree Levels Offered
At the University of Massachusetts Lowell, academics are geared toward hands-on, applied learning, with standout programs in engineering, computer science, and business that reflect the university’s industrial roots and tech-forward vision. You’ll find specialized offerings like plastics engineering—a rare niche where UML is a national leader—alongside robust research in robotics and renewable energy through centers like the Emerging Technologies and Innovation Center. Many classes emphasize projects and co-ops, so expect to roll up your sleeves early, whether you’re designing prototypes or crunching data for a local company. The university’s focus on undergraduate research also means you can often work alongside faculty on meaningful projects, even as a freshman or sophomore.
That said, as a large public university, some introductory courses can feel crowded, with lecture halls packed and less personal attention from professors until you reach upper-level classes. Certain high-demand majors, like engineering or nursing, can be competitive to enter or progress through, so you’ll need to stay on top of requirements and deadlines. If you’re looking for a highly individualized academic experience or a broad liberal arts focus, UML’s practical, career-driven approach might feel narrow—but for students eager to build technical skills and land internships, it’s a goldmine of opportunity.
Student Body
Total Enrollment
12,122 undergrad • 4,476 grad
Undergraduate
Graduate
International
White
50%
Black / African American
8%
Hispanic / Latino
13%
Asian
13%
Other / Multi-racial
16%
Campus Life
Campus Setting
Lowell, MA
Varsity Athletics
NCAA Athletics
Campus life at UML is shaped by its commuter-heavy student body, with many juggling jobs or family responsibilities alongside classes, so the social scene leans more toward focused, low-key connections than wild weekend parties. You’ll find a rhythm of weekday hustle—grabbing coffee at the campus centers, studying in groups at the library, or attending career workshops—rather than constant tailgates or Greek life dominance, though there are fraternities and sororities for those interested. Traditions like the annual River Hawk Pride events or hockey games at the Tsongas Center bring bursts of school spirit, especially since UML’s Division I hockey team often draws big crowds. Housing on campus, mostly modern dorms and apartments, is available, but many students live off-campus or at home, which can make building a tight community take extra effort.
The surrounding Lowell area adds a layer of character, with its historic vibe and cultural spots like folk festivals or art galleries, but the city’s industrial feel and cold, snowy winters might dampen your mood if you’re not prepared for gray days. Cost of living around Lowell is moderate for Massachusetts, though still higher than many other states, and parking or commuting can be a hassle for off-campus students. If you’re outgoing and proactive, you can carve out a fulfilling social life through clubs or campus events, but introverts or those expecting a built-in party scene might find it tougher to plug in.
Housing
On-Campus Housing
Housing Capacity
Meal Plan Available
Average Room & Board
Athletics
Athletic Association
America East Conference
ROTC & Veteran Support
Army
Yes
Navy
No
Air Force
Yes
Veteran’s Programs Available
Yellow Ribbon Program (Post-9/11 GI Bill)
Yes
Credit for military training
Yes
Dedicated point of contact for veteran support services
Yes
Recognized student veteran organization
Yes
Member of DoD Voluntary Educational Partnership MOU
Yes
Cost & Aid
In-State Tuition
Out-of-State Tuition
Room & Board
Estimated Cost
Financial Aid
Students Receiving Aid
Receiving Pell Grants
Average Grant
Average Federal Loan
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Outcomes & Earnings
Retention Rate
84%
4 Years Graduation Rate
48%
6 Years Graduation Rate
63%
Median 10-Year Earnings
$64,874
84% of first-time, full-time students complete their freshman year at University of Massachusetts-Lowell and return in the fall. 48% of first-time, full-time students graduate in 4 years, and 63% graduate within 6 years.
Graduation Rate
4-year grads
48%
4-5 years
15%
6-8 years
2%
Non-grad
35%
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Key Statistics
Type
Public
Tuition
$15,462
Acceptance
83%
Undergrads
12,122
4-Year Grad Rate
48%
Endowment
$182M
Lowell, MA 01854
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