The University of Massachusetts, commonly known as UMass, is a public university system in the United States. It consists of five campuses located in Amherst, Boston, Dartmouth, Lowell, and Worcester. Established in 1863, UMass offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various fields of study. UMass Amherst is the flagship campus and is known for its research initiatives and diverse student body. The university system emphasizes accessibility and affordability, making higher education available to a broad range of students. UMass is also recognized for its commitment to public service and community engagement.