
285 Old Westport Road, North Dartmouth, MA 02747-2300, USA


The University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth holds accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), ensuring that it meets rigorous standards of quality in higher education. This regional accreditation affirms the institution's commitment to continuous improvement in academic programs, faculty qualifications, student services, and institutional resources.
The university also maintains specialized accreditations in various professional fields, reflecting a dedication to meeting the industry and educational standards specific to those disciplines. These endorsements provide prospective students with assurance about the quality and relevance of their chosen programs, which can be crucial for professional licensure and employment opportunities after graduation.
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth requires applicants to have completed a high school education or possess a General Educational Development (GED) certificate. Prospective students must provide proof of their secondary school academic performance, including their grade point average, and submit recommendations along with other competency evidence.
The university does not demand the use of a personal computer for application but offers computer leasing options. Applicants must have completed college-level programs prior to admission, and Advanced Placement (AP) credits are accepted. However, credit for dual enrollment or transfer credit options is not available.
English language proficiency is mandatory, with the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) required for non-native speakers. No additional standardized test scores beyond this are specified as required, though other tests might be considered case by case.
The acceptance rate is notably high, standing at approximately 92%, indicating a generally accessible admissions process. Admissions decisions reflect a diverse range of applicants, with an average SAT score around 1145 and an average ACT score near 23, both scores being around the median national level.
The University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth requires an application fee for prospective students submitting their college applications. This fee must be paid to process an application and is a standard requirement among many universities.
Applicants may inquire about the availability of fee waivers, which can reduce or eliminate the application fee under certain circumstances. These waivers are typically granted to students who demonstrate financial need or meet specific eligibility requirements. Prospective students are encouraged to contact the university's admissions office directly to learn more about qualifying for these fee waivers and the application process involved.
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth hosts an ROTC branch unit on its campus, enabling students to participate directly in military training programs while pursuing their academic studies. In addition, the university offers access to ROTC opportunities through a cooperating host institution, allowing students to engage with ROTC programs even if certain branches or specializations are not available onsite. This dual arrangement provides flexibility for prospective students interested in military officer training, combining the benefits of campus-based programs with options available at partner institutions.
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth welcomes transfer students during the fall and spring terms, providing flexibility for those planning to join mid-academic year. The admission process for transfer applicants is considered moderately difficult, reflecting a balanced level of selectivity.
The university accepts a variety of credit types to facilitate smoother transitions for transfer students. Specifically, it recognizes credits earned through CLEP exams, both subject-specific and general, as well as credits from DANTES testing. This acceptance of exam-based credits can help reduce the time needed to complete a degree.
Additionally, the university is open to recommendations as part of the transfer application, potentially allowing applicants to strengthen their candidacy through supportive references. Prospective students transferring credits should be aware that the institution does accept prior college coursework for transfer, easing their path toward graduation.
University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth offers a variety of study abroad opportunities designed to enhance students' global perspectives and academic experiences. These programs allow students to immerse themselves in different cultures while earning credits toward their degrees. Participants can choose from faculty-led trips, semester exchanges, and internships abroad, each tailored to different academic interests and schedules.
The faculty-led programs typically take place during summer or winter sessions, providing short-term, intensive experiences in locations aligned with specific courses. Semester exchange programs enable students to spend an entire term studying at a partner institution overseas, expanding their academic horizons with courses not available on campus. Additionally, internship programs abroad provide practical work experience in international settings, helping students develop professional skills alongside cultural understanding.
These varied programs support a range of disciplines, creating opportunities for students across all majors to participate. The university assists students with pre-departure preparation and ensures that credits earned abroad integrate smoothly into their degree plans.
Median composite SAT score
1145Median composite ACT score
23Percent of students submitting ACT scores
1%Percent of students submitting SAT scores
10%High school completions
General Educational Development (GED) requiredComputer required
NoComputer purchase/lease plan is available in the institution
YesSecondary school GPA
RequiredSecondary school rank
Data not availableSecondary school record
RequiredCompletion of college-preparatory program
RequiredRecommendations
RequiredFormal demonstration of competencies
RequiredAdmission test scores
Data not availableTOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language
RequiredOther Test (Wonderlic, WISC-III, etc.)
Data not availableOpen admission policy
NoDual credit
NoCredit for life experiences
NoAdvanced placement (AP) credits
YesOrientation program
YesDisabilities services
YesOff-campus study
YesROTC-Army
ROTC branch unit at a cooperating host institutionROTC-Navy
ROTC branch unit on campusROTC-Air Force
ROTC branch unit on campusStudy abroad
YesWeekend/evening college
YesStudent can complete their preparation in certain areas of specialization
YesPreparation at another institution required
NoApproved by the state for initial certification or licensure of teacher
YesEntrance difficulty for transfer students
ModerateGenerally accepts credits
YesAccept ACE recommendation for credit
YesPossible transfer
Fall, Spring