Hybrid Program FAQs

After satisfactory completion of four online courses, students may join the in-person program. Students must earn a B or better in at least two core courses and a C or better in non-core courses before beginning in-person coursework.

International students may begin on-campus coursework after satisfactory completion of four courses. The visa sponsorship process would begin during the semester the student is enrolled in the fourth course. The graduate programs office will notify the International Programs Office of the necessary sponsorship. Please visit the UMass Office of Global Affairs website for more information about cost, travel, and arrival requirements.

Yes, you will have completed two semesters of full-time coursework at UMass Amherst and will be eligible for OPT upon completion of your degree requirements.

For the fall semester, the priority deadline is June 1; the final deadline is July 15.

For the spring semester, the priority deadline is Oct.1; the final deadline is Nov. 15.

Applications for the fall semester are reviewed in February and March and applications for the spring semester are reviewed in October.

Sign up for an information session to learn more about online coursework or sign up to receive more information about events, deadlines, and our program. 

Yes, the curriculum for the hybrid program is the same as the in-person program. Not all courses are available online, but more are being added each semester. 

Students in the hybrid program can begin coursework for the data science or cybersecurity concentrations while remote. Talk to your advisor to ensure that you optimize your course schedule to complete the concentrations.

We recommend taking two or more courses per semester. Talk to your advisor about your specific situation.