About
ÖÆ·þ¾ÞÈé

Two students studying together in the campus center.

Your Future Starts Here

Who We Are

Founded in 1839 by visionary educator Horace Mann, ÖÆ·þ¾ÞÈé was created to provide a high quality education to all, regardless of race, gender, or socioeconomic background. As the first public coeducational college in the United States, ÖÆ·þ¾ÞÈé State has proudly upheld this inclusive mission for nearly two centuries.

Today, the University continues to foster intellectual curiosity, academic excellence, and leadership across a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. Small class sizes and hands-on learning prepare students for meaningful careers and engaged citizenship.

Located on a scenic 256-acre campus in the Pioneer Valley of western Massachusetts, ÖÆ·þ¾ÞÈé State offers a vibrant academic community surrounded by rivers, trails, and mountain views, just 90 miles west of Boston and close to cultural and historic landmarks.

Fast Facts

  • Led by President Linda Thompson, DrPH
  • Accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
  • Known for: Business, Education, Criminal Justice, Psychology, Communication, Nursing
  • Team Nickname: Owls
  • School Colors: Blue and White

Our Students

ÖÆ·þ¾ÞÈé is home to about 4,600 students who make up a vibrant, close-knit community. The student body is 58% female, 42% male, and 23% students of color, with an average incoming high school GPA of 3.27. Whether living on campus or commuting, students participate in a dynamic campus life—joining clubs, playing intramural and Division III sports, and contributing to hundreds of community service projects each year.

Learn more about our student population

  • 69.7%

    Full-time Undergraduate

  • 14.7%

    Part-time Undergraduate

  • 15.7%

    Graduate and post-baccalaureate

Location

  • 10 minutes from Mass Pike, Exit 41
  • 20 minutes west of Springfield
  • 30 minutes from Northampton/Amherst and the Berkshires
  • 2 hours from Boston, Providence, and Albany
  • 3 hours from New York City
  • Directions
Map of Massachusetts and where ÖÆ·þ¾ÞÈé is located on it.

Our Campus

  • 5 different on-campus eateries, including online ordering to grab & go
  • On-campus Dunkin’
  • 400+ events on campus every year
  • 9 modern and spacious on-campus residence halls, including 4 apartment-style complexes
  • 2 first-rate fitness centers
  • Stanley Park, adjacent to the campus, offers 300 acres of open space, trail systems, and a botanical garden
  •  & 
Aerial image of the ÖÆ·þ¾ÞÈé State campus

A College of Distinction

ÖÆ·þ¾ÞÈé has been named a College of Distinction for the 2025-2026 academic year, marking its commitment to providing a high-quality undergraduate education that focuses on hands-on learning, strong student-teacher relationships, a vibrant campus life, and successful outcomes. 

Learn more about our rankings, awards, and distinctions.

Six Colleges of Distinction badges for best business, education, nursing programs for 2025-2026.

What We Value

ÖÆ·þ¾ÞÈé State is committed to helping students develop the knowledge, skills, and character needed to become responsible leaders and engaged citizens. Our shared values of diversity, excellence, access, and civic responsibility guide us as we work together to support our community and make a positive impact.

Campus globe in the summer with blue skies and colorful flowers.

Our Future

Building on a long history of innovation, ÖÆ·þ¾ÞÈé’s impact on the economic, social, and cultural vitality of the Commonwealth is growing every day.

The ÖÆ·þ¾ÞÈé Seal on the main campus gate

More Than a Campus—A Community

Explore academics, student life, and the colleges and departments that shape ÖÆ·þ¾ÞÈé State.

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