Cost & earnings at University of Massachusetts Amherst What students borrow here, and what they go on to earn
Education graduates earn a median $33,993 Across 412 US programmes, two years after finishing
See the degree grade →The Bachelor's in Education at the University of Massachusetts Amherst prepares students for careers in teaching, educational support and policy by combining foundations in learning theory with sustained school-based experience. It suits students who want a licence-track route into primary/early childhood classrooms or a broad undergraduate grounding for roles in educational services and graduate study.
This undergraduate programme blends theoretical study with classroom practice. Core topics include child and adolescent development, foundations of American education, educational psychology, curriculum and instruction, assessment and classroom management. You will study subject-specific pedagogy for literacy and mathematics, approaches to inclusive and special education, and the use of educational technology to support learning.
Programme structure typically includes introductory foundation courses in the first year, intermediate courses that address instructional methods and diversity in education, and advanced seminars on assessment, curriculum design and research methods. A sustained sequence of field experiences — practicum placements progressing to full-time student teaching — gives hands-on classroom practice under faculty and mentor teacher supervision. Many students also complete a capstone or professional portfolio that documents their teaching approach and evidence of impact.
Applicants are expected to hold a secondary school qualification equivalent to a US high school diploma. Typical entry evidence includes a competitive high school GPA and an academic transcript showing strength in core subjects such as English and mathematics. The University of Massachusetts Amherst uses a holistic admissions process; standardised test submission may be optional depending on current institutional policy.
Application materials generally include a completed undergraduate application (via the Common Application or Coalition Application), a personal statement, and at least one academic reference. Applicants planning to pursue licensure should be prepared for additional requirements during the programme such as background checks, immunisation records and the ability to complete criminal record clearance for school placements.
Graduates of the Bachelor's in Education go into a range of education-related careers. Many become licensed classroom teachers in early childhood and elementary settings after completing required certification sequences and state licensure steps. Others work as special education assistants, literacy tutors, curriculum coordinators, education programme specialists in non-profit organisations, or classroom technology coaches.
Graduates frequently pursue postgraduate certification, master’s degrees in education, school psychology, educational leadership or related fields to expand their career options and advance into roles such as reading specialist, instructional coach, school administrator and policy analyst. The programme’s practicum experiences and local school partnerships also help students build networks for classroom employment.
UMass Amherst offers preparation grounded in research-active faculty and long-standing partnerships with schools across the Pioneer Valley, providing diverse placement experiences. The College of Education emphasises evidence-based practice, equity and culturally responsive teaching, giving students the theoretical grounding and practical skills needed in contemporary classrooms.
Students benefit from campus resources for teacher development, mentorship from experienced mentor teachers in partner schools, and support services such as career advising and placement assistance. The size and research profile of UMass Amherst also create opportunities to engage with educational research projects, community outreach and interdisciplinary study across departments.
Shortlist scholarships and plan your application — free guidance from our advisors.