UMass Boston vs University of New Hampshire-Main Campus (UNH)

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are the main differences in location and campus environment between UMass Boston and UNH?

  UMass Boston is a public research university located in the vibrant city of Boston, Massachusetts, offering a diverse urban experience. UNH, on the other hand, is situated in Durham, New Hampshire, providing a more traditional, residential college town atmosphere. UMass Boston's campus is modern and overlooks Boston Harbor, while UNH boasts a classic New England campus with historic buildings and green spaces.

• How do the academic reputations of UMass Boston and UNH compare?

  Both UMass Boston and UNH are respected public universities. UNH is generally considered to have a slightly higher overall academic ranking, particularly in certain STEM fields and business. UMass Boston excels in areas like public policy, education, and nursing, and benefits from its location providing access to internships and research opportunities in Boston.

• What is the typical cost of attendance for UMass Boston versus UNH?

  Generally, UMass Boston is more affordable for Massachusetts residents due to lower in-state tuition. UNH's tuition is higher, especially for out-of-state students. Both universities offer financial aid and scholarships, so it's best to check their respective websites for the most up-to-date cost information and to explore potential aid packages.

• What types of academic programs are UMass Boston and UNH known for?

  UMass Boston is known for its strong programs in public policy, nursing, education, and environmental science, leveraging its urban location for practical experience. UNH is recognized for its programs in engineering, business, marine science, and agriculture, benefiting from its research facilities and partnerships.

• What is the student body like at each university?

  UMass Boston has a highly diverse student body, reflecting the demographics of the city. It's primarily a commuter school, with a significant portion of students living off-campus. UNH has a more traditional residential student population, with a larger proportion of students living on campus. While UNH is becoming more diverse, it is less so than UMass Boston.

• What are the opportunities for research at UMass Boston and UNH?

  Both universities offer research opportunities for undergraduate and graduate students. UNH is a Carnegie R1 research university, indicating very high research activity. UMass Boston also has growing research programs, particularly in areas related to urban issues, environmental sustainability, and health disparities. Both schools provide funding and resources to support student research projects.

• How do the career services and internship opportunities compare?

  UMass Boston benefits from its location in a major metropolitan area, providing students with access to a wide range of internship and job opportunities in various industries. UNH also offers strong career services and internship programs, particularly in fields related to its academic strengths, with connections to companies throughout New England and beyond.

• What is campus life like at UMass Boston versus UNH?

  Campus life at UMass Boston is more focused on academics and career preparation, with a strong emphasis on community engagement and social justice. UNH offers a more traditional college experience, with a vibrant social scene, numerous student organizations, and a strong emphasis on athletics and outdoor activities.

• What are the admission requirements for UMass Boston and UNH?

  Both universities require a strong academic record, including high school transcripts and standardized test scores (though test-optional policies may be in place, so check their websites). UNH is generally more selective in its admissions process than UMass Boston. Both schools also consider factors such as extracurricular activities, essays, and letters of recommendation.

• How do UMass Boston and UNH support students with disabilities?

  Both UMass Boston and UNH are committed to providing accommodations and support services for students with disabilities. They offer resources such as disability services offices, assistive technology, and academic accommodations to ensure that students with disabilities have equal access to educational opportunities.

• What athletic programs are offered at each university?

  UMass Boston competes in NCAA Division III athletics, offering a range of sports including basketball, hockey, and soccer. UNH competes in NCAA Division I athletics, with a strong emphasis on hockey and football. Both universities offer intramural sports and recreational activities for students of all skill levels.

• How do the surrounding communities of Boston and Durham impact the student experience?

  Boston offers UMass Boston students unparalleled access to cultural attractions, historical sites, and a diverse range of industries for internships and career opportunities. Durham provides UNH students with a close-knit community, access to outdoor recreation in the surrounding New Hampshire countryside, and a more traditional college town experience.