Located in the heart of the Pioneer Valley in Western Massachusetts, the University of Massachusetts Amherst (UMass Amherst) is a public research university that offers a wide range of academic programs to suit every interest and career goal. With over 30,000 students from more than 70 countries, UMass Amherst is a vibrant and diverse community that provides students with a world-class education and unparalleled opportunities for growth and development. For prospective students looking to find their dream college program, UMass Amherst offers several campus tours that showcase the university's academic, research, and extracurricular offerings.
Introduction to UMass Amherst Campus Tours
UMass Amherst campus tours are designed to provide prospective students and their families with a comprehensive overview of the university’s academic programs, research opportunities, and campus life. The tours are led by experienced student ambassadors who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and experiences with visitors. With seven ultimate campus tours to choose from, prospective students can explore the university’s various colleges and schools, including the College of Natural Sciences, the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences, the Isenberg School of Management, and the College of Engineering, among others.
Tour 1: General Campus Tour
The General Campus Tour is a 1.5-hour tour that provides a broad overview of the university’s academic and research programs, as well as its campus facilities and resources. The tour covers the university’s main campus, including the W.E.B. Du Bois Library, the Student Union, and the Recreation Center. Prospective students will also have the opportunity to visit the university’s residence halls and dining facilities. Key highlights of the tour include the university’s state-of-the-art research facilities, including the Life Sciences Laboratories and the Integrative Learning Center.
| Tour Category | Tour Length | Tour Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| General Campus Tour | 1.5 hours | W.E.B. Du Bois Library, Student Union, Recreation Center |
| College of Natural Sciences Tour | 1 hour | Life Sciences Laboratories, Integrative Learning Center |
| College of Engineering Tour | 1 hour | Engineering Research Building, M5 Lab |
Tour 2: College of Natural Sciences Tour
The College of Natural Sciences Tour is a 1-hour tour that focuses on the university’s natural sciences programs, including biology, chemistry, physics, and environmental sciences. The tour covers the college’s research facilities, including the Life Sciences Laboratories and the Integrative Learning Center. Prospective students will also have the opportunity to meet with faculty members and current students to learn more about the college’s academic programs and research opportunities. Key highlights of the tour include the college’s state-of-the-art research equipment, including scanning electron microscopes and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry instruments.
Tour 3: College of Engineering Tour
The College of Engineering Tour is a 1-hour tour that showcases the university’s engineering programs, including mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, and computer science. The tour covers the college’s research facilities, including the Engineering Research Building and the M5 Lab. Prospective students will also have the opportunity to meet with faculty members and current students to learn more about the college’s academic programs and research opportunities. Key highlights of the tour include the college’s state-of-the-art research equipment, including 3D printers and robotics systems.
Tour 4: Isenberg School of Management Tour
The Isenberg School of Management Tour is a 1-hour tour that focuses on the university’s business programs, including accounting, finance, management, and marketing. The tour covers the school’s research facilities, including the Isenberg Trading Room and the Business Innovation Hub. Prospective students will also have the opportunity to meet with faculty members and current students to learn more about the school’s academic programs and research opportunities. Key highlights of the tour include the school’s state-of-the-art research equipment, including financial databases and market simulation software.
Tour 5: College of Social and Behavioral Sciences Tour
The College of Social and Behavioral Sciences Tour is a 1-hour tour that showcases the university’s social and behavioral sciences programs, including psychology, sociology, anthropology, and economics. The tour covers the college’s research facilities, including the Social Science Research Center and the Behavioral Medicine Laboratory. Prospective students will also have the opportunity to meet with faculty members and current students to learn more about the college’s academic programs and research opportunities. Key highlights of the tour include the college’s state-of-the-art research equipment, including functional magnetic resonance imaging and eye-tracking systems.
Tour 6: College of Education Tour
The College of Education Tour is a 1-hour tour that focuses on the university’s education programs, including teacher education, special education, and educational leadership. The tour covers the college’s research facilities, including the Education Research Center and the Teaching Laboratory. Prospective students will also have the opportunity to meet with faculty members and current students to learn more about the college’s academic programs and research opportunities. Key highlights of the tour include the college’s state-of-the-art research equipment, including classroom simulation software and educational assessment tools.
Tour 7: Self-Guided Tour
The Self-Guided Tour is a flexible tour option that allows prospective students to explore the university’s campus at their own pace. The tour includes a comprehensive guidebook that highlights the university’s academic and research programs, as well as its campus facilities and resources. Prospective students can use the guidebook to navigate the campus and visit the university’s colleges and schools, including the College of Natural Sciences, the College of Engineering, and the Isenberg School of Management, among others. Key highlights of the tour include the university’s campus map and directory of academic programs.
What are the benefits of taking a campus tour?
+Taking a campus tour provides prospective students with a comprehensive overview of the university's academic and research programs, as well as its campus facilities and resources. The tour also allows students to meet with faculty members and current students, and to get a sense of the university's community and culture.
How do I schedule a campus tour?
+To schedule a campus tour, prospective students can visit the university's website and fill out the online tour request form. Students can also contact the university's admissions office directly to schedule a tour.
What should I wear on the campus tour?
+Prospective students should dress comfortably and wear shoes that are suitable for walking. The campus tour may involve walking on uneven terrain and climbing stairs, so students should be prepared for a moderate level of physical activity.
In conclusion, the University of Massachusetts Amherst offers a range of campus tours that cater to the needs and interests of prospective students. From the General Campus Tour to the Self-Guided Tour, each tour option provides students with a unique perspective on the university’s academic programs, research opportunities, and campus life. By taking a campus tour, prospective students can gain a deeper understanding of the university’s community and culture, and make an informed decision about their academic and career goals.
