UMass Global: Flexible Online Degrees for Adult Learners and Working Professionals

The University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global), formerly Brandman University, is a private, non-profit institution within the UMass system that specializes in flexible, online education tailored for adult learners, working professionals, and military personnel.

Originally established in 1958 to serve active-duty military through Chapman University, it rebranded as UMass Global in 2021 after separating from Chapman and aligning with the University of Massachusetts. Regionally accredited by WSCUC and offering over 50 career-focused programs across five schools, UMass Global emphasizes accessible, high-quality education through online and hybrid formats.

With a student body primarily over age 25 and a strong focus on part-time enrollment, the university supports its diverse population with comprehensive financial aid, military benefits, and student services, aiming to provide practical, career-relevant education in a supportive and flexible learning environment.

University of Massachusetts Global: A Deep Dive into its Online and Flexible Education Model

University of Massachusetts Global (UMass Global) stands as a distinctive institution within the larger University of Massachusetts system, primarily focusing on delivering flexible and online education for working adults and diverse learners. While part of a historically public university system, UMass Global operates as a private, non-profit institution, a unique structure that allows it to adapt swiftly to the evolving needs of its student body.

A Legacy of Evolution: From Brandman to UMass Global

The institution’s origins trace back to 1958 when Chapman University (formerly Chapman College) began offering on-base classes to active-duty military members. This initiative steadily grew, evolving into the College of Lifelong Learning, then Chapman University College in 2001. In 2008, it was incorporated as a separate, regionally accredited university within the Chapman University system. The name Brandman University was adopted in 2009 following a substantial donation from the Joyce and Saul Brandman Foundation.

In September 2021, a pivotal change occurred. Brandman University officially separated from the Chapman University system and formed a new affiliation with the University of Massachusetts, rebranding as UMass Global. This strategic move was driven by a desire to expand online educational opportunities for adult learners on a national and global scale. The agreement involved Chapman receiving $96 million from UMass Global over a 10-year period, along with the purchase of its Irvine, California, campus for $37 million. While the name changed, the core mission, administrative leadership, faculty, staff, and most existing programs remained in place.

Accreditation and Academic Excellence

UMass Global, like its predecessor Brandman University, is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). This accreditation is crucial as it signifies that the university meets rigorous standards of academic quality, facilitating credit transfer and eligibility for federal financial aid. Beyond institutional accreditation, UMass Global also holds various program-specific accreditations, including:

• California Commission on Teaching Credentialing (CTC) for its School of Education programs.
• Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) for its Baccalaureate of Science in Nursing (BSN) and Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree programs.
• Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) for its Bachelor of Arts in Social Work and Master in Social Work programs.

The university also maintains membership in the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) and the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP).

Academic Offerings: Programs for Diverse Career Paths

UMass Global offers a wide array of undergraduate, graduate, credential, and certificate programs across five main schools:

• Marybelle and S. Paul Musco School of Nursing and Health Professions
• School of Arts and Sciences
• School of Business and Professional Studies
• School of Education

The university provides over 50 programs, designed to cater to the needs of working professionals and those seeking career advancement. While specific program lists can be extensive, common areas of study include:

• Business: Accounting, MBA, Leadership, Organizational Development
• Education: Special Education, School Counseling, Educational Leadership
• Nursing and Healthcare: Various nursing specializations, Health Administration
• Arts and Sciences: Psychology, Criminal Justice, Legal Studies

Many programs are available in entirely online formats, with some hybrid options, providing significant flexibility for students balancing work, family, and studies.

Student Body and Demographics

UMass Global serves a diverse student population, often characterized by a higher proportion of non-traditional students, including working adults, military personnel, and transfer students.

As of 2023, UMass Global had a total enrollment of 9,069 students, with 3,777 full-time and 5,292 part-time students. This indicates a significant emphasis on part-time enrollment, catering to the schedules of its target demographic.

Key demographics from 2023 enrollment data include:

• Gender: Approximately 68.05% female and 31.95% male. In terms of degrees awarded in 2023, 72.4% were to women and 27.6% to men.
• Race/Ethnicity: The student population is predominantly White (54.7%), followed by Black or African American (11.5%), Hispanic or Latino (5.52%), Two or More Races (5.14%), Asian (5.03%), American Indian or Alaska Native (1.21%), and Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islanders (0.54%). A notable 16.3% of students did not report their race.
• Age: A significant majority of students are over 25 years old (approximately 77%), reflecting its focus on adult learners.
• Geographic Reach: While its physical administrative campus is in Aliso Viejo, CA, UMass Global’s online nature allows it to serve students across the globe.

Admissions and Acceptance

In 2021, UMass Global received 168 undergraduate applications, accepting 156 students, leading to a high acceptance rate of 92.9%. The overall enrollment yield, representing admitted students who ultimately enroll, was 48.7%.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition and fees at UMass Global vary by program and level of study. As of 2025, estimated first-year tuition fees are:

Undergraduate (UG): Approximately USD 12,520 (INR 10,67,706)

Graduate (PG): Ranging from USD 19,131 to 23,000 (INR 16,31,492 to 19,61,440)

Beyond tuition, students should also account for living expenses, including accommodation, which can be significant.

UMass Global offers various financial aid options to help students fund their education. These include:

• Federal and State Grants: Eligibility determined by the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). UMass Global’s FAFSA code is 042322.
• Scholarships: Merit-based, need-based, and program-specific scholarships are available. Notable scholarships include the Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship, Transfer Student Scholarships, and various military and veteran scholarships.
• Loans: Federal and private loan options are accessible.
• Military Benefits: UMass Global is committed to supporting active-duty military, veterans, and their families through scholarships and tuition discounts.

Unique Features and Strengths

UMass Global distinguishes itself through several key features:

• Flexibility and Online Learning: The institution’s core strength lies in its robust online learning environment, catering to individuals who require flexible schedules and remote access to education.
• Adult Learner Focus: Programs and support services are specifically designed to meet the needs of adult learners, often with prior work experience and diverse life circumstances.
• Career-Oriented Curriculum: The curriculum is often designed with direct career relevance, aiming to equip students with practical skills applicable in their professional fields.
• Supportive Environment: The university emphasizes strong support services, including academic advising and resources tailored for online students.
• Connection to UMass System: Being part of the esteemed University of Massachusetts system provides a recognized brand and a broader network of resources and opportunities, even while maintaining its distinct operational model.

Conclusion

University of Massachusetts Global represents a significant player in the landscape of online and adult education. By combining the established reputation of the UMass system with a flexible, student-centered approach, it aims to provide accessible and high-quality higher education for a diverse and growing population of learners seeking to advance their careers and enhance their lives. Its continued evolution and commitment to supporting non-traditional students position it as a key institution in the future of higher education.

FAQs about UMass Global

What is UMass Global?
UMass Global is a private, non-profit university affiliated with the University of Massachusetts system, offering flexible, career-focused education primarily online for adult learners and working professionals.

Is UMass Global part of the University of Massachusetts?
Yes, UMass Global is affiliated with the University of Massachusetts system, though it operates independently as a private, non-profit institution.

When was UMass Global founded?
UMass Global’s roots go back to 1958 when it began as part of Chapman University. It became UMass Global in 2021 after separating from Chapman and affiliating with UMass.

Is UMass Global accredited?
Yes, UMass Global is regionally accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC), and several of its programs have specialized accreditations.

What kind of students does UMass Global serve?
UMass Global primarily serves non-traditional students, including working adults, military personnel, veterans, and transfer students.

Are UMass Global degrees respected and recognized?
Yes, UMass Global’s degrees are fully accredited and recognized by employers and other educational institutions, especially due to its regional accreditation and UMass affiliation.

What programs does UMass Global offer?
UMass Global offers over 50 programs across Business, Education, Nursing and Health, Arts and Sciences, and more at the undergraduate, graduate, and certificate levels.

Is UMass Global 100% online?
Most programs are offered fully online, with some hybrid options available depending on the program and location.

Where is UMass Global located?
The university’s administrative headquarters is in Aliso Viejo, California, but it serves students nationally and globally through its online platform.

How much is tuition at UMass Global?
As of 2025, undergraduate tuition is about $12,520 annually, while graduate tuition ranges from $19,131 to $23,000, depending on the program.

Does UMass Global offer financial aid?
Yes, UMass Global offers federal and state aid, scholarships, grants, loans, and military/veteran education benefits.

What is the admissions process like?
UMass Global has a high acceptance rate. Applicants must submit transcripts and may need to meet additional criteria depending on the program.

What is UMass Global’s acceptance rate?
In 2021, the acceptance rate was approximately 92.9%.

Does UMass Global accept transfer credits?
Yes, UMass Global is transfer-friendly and accepts a wide range of credits from accredited institutions.

Is UMass Global military-friendly?
Yes, it has a long history of serving active-duty military and veterans, offering tuition discounts and scholarships for military-affiliated students.

Can I work while studying at UMass Global?
Absolutely. Programs are designed to be flexible, allowing students to balance work, family, and education.

What support services are available to online students?
UMass Global offers academic advising, tech support, career services, tutoring, library access, and more for online learners.

Do I need to take the SAT or ACT to apply?
Standardized test scores are generally not required, especially for adult and transfer students.

How long will it take to complete a degree?
Completion time depends on the student’s pace, course load, and transfer credits. Most undergraduate degrees take 2–4 years, while master’s degrees take 1–2 years.

Are there scholarships available at UMass Global?
Yes, the university offers various merit-based, need-based, transfer, and military-related scholarships.

What is the demographic breakdown of students at UMass Global?
As of 2023, about 68% of students are female, 77% are over age 25, and the population is ethnically diverse.

Can international students enroll in UMass Global?
Yes, international students can enroll in online programs, although visa sponsorship is generally not provided for on-campus study.

Does UMass Global offer career support?
Yes, students have access to career counseling, resume reviews, job search help, and networking resources.

What makes UMass Global different from other online universities?
Its strong support for adult learners, affiliation with the UMass system, flexible scheduling, and accredited, career-focused programs make it stand out.

Is there a campus I can visit?
UMass Global’s physical operations are based in Irvine, California, but most students attend classes online.

Can I get a teaching credential at UMass Global?
Yes, the university offers credential programs accredited by the California Commission on Teacher Credentialing (CTC).

Does UMass Global offer nursing programs?
Yes, UMass Global offers accredited BSN and DNP programs through its School of Nursing and Health Professions.

Are UMass Global courses self-paced?
Courses follow a term-based schedule but offer flexibility in when and how students complete assignments each week.

What is UMass Global’s learning platform like?
The university uses an intuitive online platform that includes video lectures, discussions, assignments, and direct access to instructors.