UMass Amherst vs. Amherst College

Kinda stuck between UMass Amherst and Amherst College. Both seem pretty good, but how do they compare? What are the pros and cons of each? Can anyone who has been to either shed some light?

Both UMass Amherst and Amherst College are excellent institutions but they offer vastly different experiences because they have different focuses - UMass Amherst is a large public research university, whereas Amherst College is a smaller liberal arts college.

UMass Amherst provides a robust, diverse academic environment, with numerous options for study in its various Colleges and Schools. Being a larger institution, it would offer you a wide array of extracurricular activities, clubs, and organizations. If you favor a bustling, high-energy atmosphere and a larger social community, UMass would appeal to you.

Amherst College, on the other hand, offers a distinctive liberal arts education with a focus on smaller class engagement with professors and peers. The student-faculty ratio at Amherst is much lower, which allows for closer connections, personalized attention, and mentoring opportunities. The College also follows an open curriculum which means you'll have the freedom to explore your academic interests without common distribution requirements.

In terms of academics, UMass Amherst is well-known for its programs in business, natural resources, and healthcare. It stands out for its research opportunities and career services. On the other hand, Amherst College is known for its academic strengths in English, history, and social sciences.

From a financial perspective, as a state school, UMass Amherst is often a more affordable choice, especially for in-state students. While Amherst College has a higher sticker price, it practices need-blind admissions, meaning your financial situation won’t affect your chance of admission. It also meets 100% of demonstrated financial need.

Ultimately, the choice between UMass Amherst and Amherst College would come down to your preference for a large university community vs a small college setting, your academic interests, and your financial considerations. Ensure to visit both campuses virtually or in person to get a feel for where you see yourself fitting best.