University of Massachusetts-Amherst (UMass) vs Bentley University

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the primary academic focuses of UMass Amherst and Bentley University?

  UMass Amherst is a comprehensive public research university with a wide range of programs across various disciplines, including engineering, sciences, humanities, and business. Bentley University, on the other hand, is primarily focused on business-related fields, offering specialized programs in areas like accounting, finance, marketing, and information technology.

• How do the campus environments differ between UMass Amherst and Bentley University?

  UMass Amherst has a large, traditional college campus with a vibrant atmosphere, offering a wide array of extracurricular activities, sports, and social events. Bentley University has a smaller, more intimate campus focused on creating a close-knit community centered around business and professional development.

• What is the typical class size and student-to-faculty ratio at each university?

  UMass Amherst, being a larger public university, generally has larger class sizes, especially in introductory courses. The student-to-faculty ratio is around 18:1. Bentley University, with its smaller size, offers smaller class sizes and a more personalized learning experience, with a student-to-faculty ratio of approximately 12:1.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities compare?

  Both universities offer robust career services. UMass Amherst leverages its extensive alumni network and partnerships across various industries. Bentley University excels in career services tailored specifically to business careers, with strong connections to companies in the Boston area and a high internship placement rate.

• What is the cost of attendance difference between UMass Amherst and Bentley University?

  UMass Amherst, as a public university, generally has a lower cost of attendance, especially for in-state students. Bentley University, as a private institution, has a higher tuition cost. However, both universities offer financial aid and scholarship opportunities to help students manage expenses.

• What types of students typically thrive at UMass Amherst versus Bentley University?

  UMass Amherst is a good fit for students who are independent, enjoy a diverse and dynamic environment, and are interested in exploring a wide range of academic and extracurricular options. Bentley University is well-suited for students who are highly focused on business careers, prefer a smaller and more career-oriented environment, and value close relationships with faculty.

• How do the locations of UMass Amherst and Bentley University impact student life and opportunities?

  UMass Amherst is located in a college town in Western Massachusetts, offering a more traditional college experience with access to outdoor activities and a strong sense of community. Bentley University is located in Waltham, Massachusetts, a suburb of Boston, providing easy access to internships, networking events, and cultural attractions in a major metropolitan area.

• What are the strengths of UMass Amherst's Isenberg School of Management compared to Bentley University's overall business focus?

  UMass Amherst's Isenberg School of Management is a highly regarded business school within a large public university, offering a broad range of business programs and research opportunities. Bentley University's strength lies in its singular focus on business education, providing specialized programs, a strong career-oriented curriculum, and extensive connections to the business world.

• What are the research opportunities like at UMass Amherst compared to Bentley University?

  UMass Amherst, as a research university, offers extensive research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students across various disciplines. Bentley University, while primarily focused on teaching, also provides research opportunities, particularly in business-related fields, often with a focus on applied research and industry collaboration.

• How do the alumni networks of UMass Amherst and Bentley University compare?

  UMass Amherst has a large and diverse alumni network spanning various industries and geographic locations. Bentley University has a smaller but highly engaged alumni network concentrated in the business world, particularly in the Northeast region, providing strong career support and networking opportunities for graduates.