The Five College Consortium is a collaboration among five higher education institutions in the Pioneer Valley of Massachusetts. The member colleges are Amherst College, Smith College, Mount Holyoke College, Hampshire College, and University of Massachusetts Amherst. This partnership allows students to take courses across all five campuses, enhancing their academic experience and providing access to a wider range of resources. Founded in 1965, the consortium promotes cooperation in academics, research, and community engagement. Students benefit from shared libraries, events, and extracurricular activities, fostering a diverse and enriching educational environment. The consortium aims to strengthen the individual institutions while providing a broader educational landscape.