University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth: 95.5% Acceptance Rate

95.5%Acceptance

$15,208Tuition

5,289Students

49%Grad Rate (6-yr)

$68,804Earnings

Public4-yearSAT/ACT Test OptionalResearch UniversityNCAA Division IIIStudy AbroadData: 2023-24

About University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth

The University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth serves 5,289 students on a midsize suburban campus known for strong engineering programs and marine science research. The school sits in coastal Massachusetts, giving students access to both ocean-based research opportunities and the practical advantages of studying near New Bedford's working waterfront. With a 95.52% acceptance rate, UMass Dartmouth opens its doors to students with a wide range of academic backgrounds. The average SAT score of 1140 reflects a student body that spans from high achievers to those looking for a second chance at higher education.

Students pay an average net price of $20,605 after financial aid, making this one of the more affordable public university options in Massachusetts. Graduates earn a median of $68,804 ten years after graduation, which provides solid returns on the investment. With median debt of $25,000 and monthly loan payments around $265, most graduates can manage their financial obligations while building careers in engineering, marine sciences, and other fields.

The retention rate of 63.73% suggests some students struggle with the transition to college life or academic demands. However, 90.17% of students come from Massachusetts, creating a tight-knit community where many students already know the local culture and stay connected to home.

Academics & Faculty

UMass Dartmouth operates as a public research university with particularly strong engineering and marine science programs that take advantage of its coastal location. The 15:1 student-faculty ratio provides decent access to professors, though the 52% four-year graduation rate suggests students often need extra time to complete degrees. Engineering students benefit from hands-on research opportunities and industry connections in the region's manufacturing sector. The marine science program leverages the university's proximity to Buzzards Bay for fieldwork and research. Business and nursing also draw significant enrollment. With 95% acceptance rate, the university serves as an accessible entry point for students who may need additional academic support to reach graduation.

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Full-Time Faculty: 67.5%
Graduation Rate (4-year): 51.8%
Graduation Rate (6-year): 49.0%
Retention Rate: 63.7%
Median Earnings (10 years): $68,804
Carnegie Classification: Doctoral University (R2)

Popular Programs by Earnings

Popular programs by earnings
Program	Level	Median Earnings
Computer and Information Sciences, General.	Bachelor	$68,858
Business Administration, Management and Operations.	Master	$68,666
Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing.	Bachelor	$64,258
Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering.	Bachelor	$63,997
Mechanical Engineering.	Bachelor	$62,260
Clinical/Medical Laboratory Science/Research and Allied Professions.	Bachelor	$57,619
Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods.	Master	$51,356
Civil Engineering.	Bachelor	$49,937
Biomedical/Medical Engineering.	Bachelor	$48,823
Management Information Systems and Services.	Bachelor	$46,478

View all 114 programs →

Campus Life

UMass Dartmouth sits on a sprawling 710-acre campus about an hour south of Boston, where brutalist concrete architecture defines the academic core. With housing capacity for 3,190 students and total enrollment of 5,289, roughly 60% of students live on campus. The coastal Massachusetts location means you'll need both winter coats for snowy January days and light layers for humid summers.

The campus feels commuter-heavy since 90% of students are from Massachusetts, with many heading home on weekends. Those who stay often take advantage of the nearby beaches or drive to New Bedford for dining and entertainment. The Corsairs compete in 19 NCAA Division III sports with 424 total athletes, creating pockets of school spirit without dominating campus life. With a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, classes feel manageable rather than impersonal. The engineering and marine science programs draw students to well-equipped labs, while the suburban setting provides a quiet study environment. Campus traditions remain low-key, reflecting the practical, work-focused culture of this public research university.

Setting: Suburb-Midsize
Housing Capacity: 3,190 beds
Calendar System: Semester
Study Abroad: Available

Campus Safety (2023)

46 total reported incidents. Source: Clery Act / U.S. Department of Education

Campus safety incidents by location
Offense	On Campus	Residential
Rape	7	7
Fondling	5	5
Aggravated Assault	4	3
Stalking	4	2
Arson	2	2
Domestic Violence	2	2
Motor Vehicle Theft	1	0

Climate & Weather

January Avg: 20°–39°F
July Avg: 61°–82°F
Annual Precipitation: 45.9"
Annual Snowfall: 32.5"

Student Demographics

UMass Dartmouth draws heavily from Massachusetts communities, with nine out of ten students staying close to home for their engineering and marine science education. The student body reflects the region's diversity, with significant Black and Hispanic representation alongside white students. Many students come from working-class families who see the university as an affordable path to technical careers. The nearly even gender split reflects strong enrollment in both traditional engineering programs that attract men and growing fields like nursing and business that draw more women. Students typically choose UMass Dartmouth for its practical programs and reasonable cost rather than prestige.

Men: 48.1%
Women: 51.9%
White: 56.3%
Black: 18.2%
Hispanic: 13.4%
Asian: 3.2%
In-State Students: 90.2%
Pell Grant Recipients: 35.6%

Location

North Dartmouth sits in southeastern Massachusetts, about 60 miles south of Boston and 30 miles from Providence, Rhode Island. The campus occupies 710 acres in a suburban setting near the Massachusetts coast. With 90.17% of students coming from in-state, most are familiar with the region's mix of industrial history and coastal New England charm. The university serves as an anchor in the greater New Bedford area, known for its fishing industry and maritime heritage. Students have access to both urban amenities in nearby cities and coastal recreation along Buzzards Bay. Students considering colleges in Massachusetts may also compare University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth with similar schools in the region.

Address: North Dartmouth, Massachusetts 02747-2300

UMass Dartmouth, MacLean Campus Center - North Side

After College

Source: College Scorecard / U.S. Department of Education

Median Earnings (10 years): $68,804
Median Earnings (5 years): $68,294
Mean Earnings (6 years after entry): $41,100
Loan Repayment Rate: 66.5%
Monthly Loan Payment: $265/mo
Median Debt at Graduation: $25,000

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the acceptance rate at University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth?

UMass Dartmouth accepts 95.52% of applicants, making it highly accessible to students. The middle 50% of admitted students score between 1020-1260 on the SAT. This open admission approach reflects the university's mission to serve the diverse population of southeastern Massachusetts.

How much does University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth cost after financial aid?

Students pay an average net price of $20,605 annually after aid is applied. In-state students start with tuition of $15,208, while those from families earning under $30,000 pay just $14,122 on average. About 36% of students receive federal Pell Grants, indicating significant economic diversity on campus.

What academic programs is University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth known for?

The university has built a strong reputation for engineering and marine science programs that take advantage of its coastal location. With a 15:1 student-faculty ratio, students get meaningful access to professors in these specialized fields. The school's research focus helps students gain hands-on experience in modern scientific work.

What are the graduation rates at University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth?

About 52% of students graduate within four years, while 49% complete their degrees within six years. Graduates earn a median salary of $68,804 ten years after graduation, reflecting the value of the university's career-focused programs. The 95.3% employment rate shows strong job market outcomes for UMass Dartmouth alumni.

Where is University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth located and what is campus life like?

The campus sits in North Dartmouth, a mid-sized suburban community in southeastern Massachusetts. With housing for 3,190 students and 90% of enrollment coming from in-state, it maintains a close-knit regional identity. The Corsairs compete in 19 NCAA Division III sports in the Little East Conference.

Does University of Massachusetts-Dartmouth have good student retention?

The university retains 63.73% of first-year students into their sophomore year, which is below the national average. This reflects the challenges many regional public universities face in supporting diverse student populations. However, those who stay benefit from smaller class sizes and strong connections to local industries and research opportunities.