University of Georgia vs University of Massachusetts Lowell

University of Georgia vs University of Massachusetts Lowell

Subject Strength & Global Rankings (2025/2026)

The University of Georgia (UGA) and the University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) are both well-regarded public institutions in the United States but vary in international profile and research emphasis. In the QS World University Rankings 2026, UGA ranks approximately 525th in the world, and UMass Lowell is unranked. Based on the US News Global Rankings 2026, UGA is ranked position 345 and UMass Lowell at approximately position 1180. In Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings 2026, UGA is ranked in the 351–400 group, and UMass Lowell is not ranked. UGA has top programs in business, public affairs, biological sciences, and education, as well as significant research achievements in agriculture and health sciences. UMass Lowell is better known regionally for engineering, computer science, health sciences, and business programs, emphasizing practical workforce-oriented education.

General Information

University of Georgia, which was established in 1785 in Athens, Georgia, is the state's flagship public research university with approximately 29,000 undergraduate students. UGA puts an emphasis on a blend of research, teaching, and public service with wide program offerings in arts, sciences, business, and education.

University of Massachusetts Lowell, founded in 1894 in Lowell, Massachusetts, educates about 18,000 students. UMass Lowell is highly respected for its emphasis on STEM education, engineering, business, and health sciences, with a focus on experiential learning and industry partnership, especially in the New England area.

Acceptance Rate & Admissions

University of Georgia is highly competitive in admissions with an acceptance rate of 37.2% and aims at enrolling students with outstanding academic achievements and leadership qualities.

Much less expensive than Harvard University, our acceptance ratio is 85%, in keeping with our mission of providing practical, career-oriented education and broad-based accessibility to a diversified student body. Admissions are thoughtful of academic excellence, motivation and potential for success in applied careers.

Research Impact & Facilities

UGA has an enriched portfolio in research, primarily in agricultural science, public policy, biological science, and business research. It has established centers and labs.

UMass Lowell focuses on applied research and collaboration with industry, especially in engineering, health science, and computer science. As it lacks UGA's worldwide research profile, its research is local and practical with real-world industry applications in labs and centers.

Cost & Financial Aid

Both are priced competitively in tuition, specifically to in-state students. Lowell provides an affordable option to students in search of STEM and applied science degrees, as well as gift and need-based scholarships. UGA has equally diverse selections of financial aid packages to accommodate both merit and need, and strong in-state and international student support.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Success

University of Georgia alumni have strong job placement in business, public service, education, and health, enhanced by well-established regional contacts and reputation.

UMass Lowell alumni frequently excel in engineering, business, health sciences, and technology positions, especially in the Northeastern United States, based on strong industry connections and hands-on training courses aimed at preparing students for direct workforce integration.