Assumption University: A Vibrant Location for Academic and Personal Growth

Assumption University, formerly known as Assumption College, offers a unique blend of academic rigor and a supportive community within the dynamic setting of Worcester, Massachusetts. Founded in 1904 by the Augustinians of the Assumption, the university provides a liberal arts education grounded in Catholic tradition. This article explores the location of Assumption University, highlighting its advantages and the opportunities it offers to students.

Worcester: A City of Culture, Innovation, and Opportunity

Assumption University is located in Worcester, Massachusetts, New England’s second-largest city. Worcester, pronounced “WOO-STAH,” was first settled in 1673 and officially incorporated as a town in 1722. The name comes from Worcester, England, and like many towns in colonial New England, played a role in the American Revolution.

By the 19th century, Worcester had become a powerhouse of American industry. Known for its manufacturing strength, the city produced everything from wire and textiles to machine parts and boots. Alongside its industrial success, Worcester grew into a center of education and innovation. Today, eight higher education institutions call Worcester home as the city continues to lead in areas like health care, biotechnology, and the arts. The city is home to a vibrant community of innovators, entrepreneurs, and startup businesses, providing students with valuable internship, mentorship, and employment opportunities.

In recent decades, Worcester has experienced a major revitalization. Investment in the downtown area, the development of Polar Park, and a growing food, arts, and innovation scene have injected new life into the city.

Worcester is pulsing with creativity, culture, and opportunity, making college life unforgettable. The city boasts a large student population of approximately 37,000, contributing to its vibrant atmosphere. The presence of the DCU Center, a major indoor arena, ensures access to concerts, hockey games, and large events.

A Prime Location in New England

Assumption University's location in Worcester offers convenient access to various attractions and destinations throughout New England. The university is proud to call New England home, and in Worcester, you’re not far from everything the region has to offer! Whether it’s a quick day trip to Boston, a beach weekend with friends, or fall hikes in the Berkshires, there’s always somewhere new to explore.

Easy Access to Major Cities and Attractions

Worcester's location and transit options make it easy to get to campus-or explore New England and beyond.

Boston: A quick day trip to Boston provides access to historical sites, cultural attractions, and a wide range of entertainment options. Train service is available through the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority with service from Boston via the Worcester/Framingham Commuter Rail.
The Berkshires: Fall hikes in the Berkshires offer stunning natural landscapes and outdoor recreational activities.
Beaches: A beach weekend with friends is easily accessible, with numerous coastal destinations within a reasonable driving distance.
Wachusett Mountain: Located about 30 minutes from campus in Princeton, MA, Wachusett Mountain is a popular ski destination.

Transportation Options

Getting to Assumption University is simple, thanks to several major airports just a short drive away. T.F.

Airports: Several major airports are within a short drive, providing convenient travel options.
Train Service: Train service is available through the Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority with service from Boston via the Worcester/Framingham Commuter Rail.
Local Transportation: City buses, taxis/cab services, and shuttle buses operated by the Colleges of Worcester Consortium are available for transportation within the city.

Directions to Campus

From the North: Take I-495 or I-190 to I-290 West into Worcester to Exit 18-Ware, Framingham, Route 9. Bear right from the exit ramp onto Lincoln St. Bear right onto Concord St. which becomes Salisbury St. Continue on Salisbury St. for about two miles through the intersection at Park Ave., bear left at the Forest St. fork and right at the Flagg St. fork.
From the South, East, or West: Take the Massachusetts Turnpike to Exit 10-Worcester/Auburn Exit and follow I-290 East to Exit 17-Ware, Framingham, Route 9. Turn left from the exit ramp onto Belmont St. (Route 9). Go down the hill and through the intersection at Lincoln Square to the top of the next hill. Turn right onto Harvard Street. Turn left at the second traffic light onto Salisbury Street. Continue on Salisbury St. for about two miles through the intersection at Park Ave., bearing left at the Forest St. fork, and right at the Flagg St. fork.

A "Beautiful, Diverse, and Secured Campus"

Students love their "beautiful, diverse, and secured campus," and 85% of attendees choose to remain on their picture-perfect campus thanks to a four-year housing guarantee. The 185-acre (75 ha) campus is located off Salisbury Street on the west side of the city. Assumption relocated to its current location off Salisbury Street, officially opening in 1956 with the completion of La Maison Francaise.

A Tight-Knit Community

Assumption has "a tight-knit, faith-based community where everyone is part of a family" and students feel that "there is a great sense of belonging" that makes it "easy to meet new people," especially for those who are "very invested in academics, sports, extracurriculars, and social experiences." Hound Nation "is like no other" in terms of community and manners, and everyone is "courteous and [will] hold doors open or lend you a calculator in class if your forgot yours."

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Campus Features

The Chapel of the Holy Spirit serves as the center of the university's spiritual community.

Housing Guarantee

Assumption offers a four-year housing guarantee, ensuring that students can remain on campus throughout their academic journey.

Academics and Experiential Learning

Assumption University focuses both on education and "core values."

Curiosity, faith, and learning are cornerstones of an Assumption University education, which "helps foster well-rounded, creative, intelligent and caring young adults to be successful and morally sound in their future endeavors." The Catholic school's curriculum begins with the Foundations Program, which encourages self-exploration and introspection to help students discover who they want to become; this is achieved through "service, meaningful discussions, and liberal arts classes." To help students make the transition from high school to college, all first-years also participate in COMPASS (Common Pursuit of Academic and Social Success), a semester-long program.

Experiential learning is emphasized, with the idea that students "receive a greater impact" through the application of skills via service learning, study abroad (the school has a campus in Rome), and internships; campus jobs represent another avenue for experience and are said to be "abundant." Within the classroom, the "beyond helpful" professors are engaging and approachable, "willing to talk to you whenever you need it and [caring] about your wellbeing." Their "diversity of teaching styles," complemented by a variety of backgrounds, allows them to "bring their personal experiences into the classroom" and make classes "interesting and enjoyable." Students take note of these efforts: "the professors here at Assumption all love what they do, and it is obvious in the classroom." This level of support extends to all arms of the university, including the Academic Support Center (which provides tutoring) and the Career Development and Internship Center.

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The school counseling program gives students the opportunity to earn a master’s degree in school counseling - or, for those who already have one, the opportunity to pursue a certificate of advanced graduate study (CAGS). The master of arts in school counseling at Assumption prepares students to become licensed as either school counselors or school adjustment counselors/school social workers, both at all grade levels.

Assumption College is a coeducational, residential, comprehensive liberal arts and professional studies college. It offers bachelor's degrees and programs in education, business and science. The college offers a variety of degree programs, including Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science and associate degrees. It grants bachelor s degrees in various subjects, such as arts, business administration, biology, chemistry, communications, education, English and environmental science.

Athletics

Assumption University teams participate as a member of the National Collegiate Athletic Association's Division II in most sports. In 1979, Assumption became one of the founding member institutions of the NE10 (then the Northeast-7). In addition, Assumption offers intramural sports tournaments each academic year. In 2024, Assumption earned its 14th straight NCAA President's Award for Academic Excellence, presented annually to NCAA Division II athletics programs with a 90 percent or higher academic success rate (ASR).

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