UML Ensures that Every Student can Gain a Career-Connected Experience that Turns Learning into Action
04/15/2026
Learning extends far beyond the classroom at UMass Lowell. Through coops, internships, research, clinical placements and creative projects, students gain the skills, confidence and connections that lead to meaningful careers.
The UML Guarantee, introduced by Chancellor Julie Chen in 2023, means every first-year student will have the opportunity to pursue at least one career-connected experience during their undergraduate years—earning pay, credits or both before graduation. The initiative ensures that all students, regardless of background or major, can access high-impact learning that prepares them to thrive in an evolving workforce.
Career-connected experiences take many forms. Engineering and science students work alongside faculty and industry partners to develop sustainable technologies and conduct cutting-edge research and products. Business students gain professional experience through co-ops and corporate partnerships. Health sciences students complete clinical placements that prepare them for patient care. And in the College of Fine Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, students connect classroom learning to professional practice through initiatives such as Braven, a new leadership and career-acceleration program; the TIE Hub, which links students with startups and social ventures; and The Washington Center, which offers semester-long internships in government, policy and media.
Together, these programs give every student the chance to earn, learn and lead with purpose. Here's a look at how some River Hawks are putting what they are learning on campus into practice out in the world.
