-
What is the community studies major?
The community studies major is an academically challenging program that examines human communities - their histories and cultures, identities and values, institutions and economies, and problems and prospects. The content and methods of this interdisciplinary major are drawn from the social sciences as well as the humanities. The program also concentrates on skill development in the areas of academic research, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and academic writing.
-
What will a degree in community studies do for me?
A community studies major will be useful in many professional and academic arenas. Our program will give you a skill-set and knowledge that prepare you to work with an array of private and public community development organizations. If you plan to continue with advanced study, the major will serve well as preparation for graduate programs in urban planning, public policy, or the social sciences. A number of our graduates have gone on to master's and PhD programs.
-
Who is an ideal online student?
Our successful online learners are mature, independent, and self-motivated, and possess strong time-management skills. Many are working adults who manage academic work, careers, and family responsibilities.
-
How does online study differ from on-campus study?
The major difference is your location. You do not have to travel to the campus, but may participate from your home or office, or while traveling. You do, however, have access to the same excellent UMass Boston faculty as do those who study on campus. UMass Boston courses are rigorous and require you to complete work by set deadlines. For the most part, you may participate at times that suit your schedule.
-
How much time does an online course require?
An online semester is thirteen weeks. For each 3-credit course, students should plan to spend a total of 9 to 12 hours per week on course material and assignments.
-
How important are writing skills in an online course?
Writing skills are very important, and the primary means of communication in an online course. Your ability to reflect upon a problem, to organize your thinking, and argue your point of view persuasively are skills required in upper level courses. One way in which students polish their writing skills is by completing UMass Boston's general education requirements, including the writing proficiency requirement – link to
www.umb.edu/academics/vpass/undergraduate_studies/writing_proficiency/
The writing proficiency requirement measures your ability to evaluate different points of view, read critically, and write analytically. Your proficiency is assessed through a portfolio of your writing or an exam.
-
Do I need to have superb computer skills?
No, but you should be able to use email, use the web for research, send file attachments via email, and participate in threaded discussions.
-
What learning management system does UMass Boston use?
-
How do I interact with my professor?
Instructors answer email questions, participate in online discussions, and evaluate assignments.
-
How do I interact with the other students in my class?
You will post questions and comments to threaded discussions. This allows you to hold virtual conversations with classmates and your instructor without having to be online at the same time. You will also use email to communicate with classmates and your instructor. Students are encouraged to work collaboratively, utilize peer-to-peer learning techniques, and work in teams.
-
What is your current student body like?
We have an impressive and diverse group of students, including individuals from many states and several countries. They range in age from their early 20s to their 60s. Many have attended at least two colleges or universities in the past. Among the majors that students have previously studied are social psychology, business, political science, music, journalism, liberal studies, communication, anthropology, art, and history. Many students work full time, and many are parents.
-
How will my previous courses transfer into this program?
Once accepted into the program, the UMass Boston Undergraduate Admissions Office will evaluate your transcript(s) and generate a transfer credit evaluation.
The transfer credit evaluation indicates which credits are deemed transferable. Transferred credits not meeting general education requirements may be used for electives.
Read more »
-
How long does it take to complete the program?
The five foundation and 10 required courses in the major are scheduled in a sequence that will allow you to complete the program in two years. Students who wish to complete the degree in two years will be expected to take four courses in the fall and spring semesters. In addition, summer sessions will include coursework to complete electives and general education requirements. An advisor will help students select the appropriate courses to satisfy the major and general education requirements.
-
What is the cost of the program?
-
Will my degree show that I completed an online program?
No. There is no distinction on the final transcript or the diploma between our online and regular on-campus programs.
-
What are the application dates?
Applications for fall admission must be received by July 1. Applications for spring admission must be received by December 15.
-
How do I apply for admission to the program?
-
Who can answer my questions about the program?
-
Who can answer my questions about admissions?
Questions about the admissions process should be directed to Enrollment Information Services at 617.287.6000 or
enrollment.info@umb.edu.
Questions about admissions standards should be directed to Undergraduate Admissions at 617.287.6100 or
undergrad.admissions@umb.edu.
