Boston, MA, February 11, 2026
News Summary
Massachusetts is launching a statewide initiative aimed at re-engaging former students to complete their degrees. Focused on providing support and pathways back to education, public colleges, led by UMass Boston, are partnering with ReUp Education to assist ‘stop-out’ students. The initiative underscores the importance of degree completion for individual success and economic vitality, contributing to a skilled workforce and enhancing the state’s educational landscape.
Boston, MA — Higher education in Massachusetts is making significant and proactive strides to support individuals who previously paused their academic journeys. A statewide initiative is focusing on reconnecting with former students, offering them pathways to complete their degrees and contribute to the Commonwealth’s vibrant economy. This effort underscores a commitment to academic rigor and personal growth, recognizing the profound impact of higher education on individual lives and community prosperity.
In a landscape where intellectual discipline and continuous learning are paramount, these programs highlight the value of every student’s potential. By fostering an environment that encourages perseverance and offers tangible support, Massachusetts public colleges are not only bolstering their enrollment but also investing in the future leadership and innovation of the state. This strategic re-engagement aims to transform “stop-out” students into accomplished graduates, ready to enhance the Massachusetts workforce and civic life.
Massachusetts Leads the Way in Degree Completion
A collaborative effort across Massachusetts’s public colleges is actively working to bring back students who left before earning their degrees. This statewide initiative addresses a growing need to ensure more residents achieve their educational goals and contribute to the state’s economic vitality. The program recognizes that for many, circumstances outside of academics can interrupt their studies, and providing a clear path back is crucial for both individual success and broader societal benefit.
This dedication to student success is bolstered by legislative action. The Acts of 2024 Chapter 238, titled “An Act relative to strengthening Massachusetts’ economic leadership,” provides for a program of community development, economic opportunities, support for local governments, increased industry innovation, and job creation. While broad in scope, the spirit of this legislation aligns with initiatives that strengthen the workforce through education, reinforcing the idea that a skilled populace is fundamental to sustained economic leadership. Furthermore, a Financial Assessment and Risk Monitoring (FARM) report from November 7, 2022, acknowledged the challenges in ensuring admitted students complete their degree programs but noted that the number of students at Massachusetts public institutions remained substantial.
UMass Boston’s Commitment to Re-enrollment
At the forefront of this statewide initiative is the University of Massachusetts Boston (UMass Boston). The institution has successfully re-enrolled 260 former students through a strategic partnership, as reported on February 10, 2026. This significant achievement reflects UMass Boston’s dedication to supporting its students throughout their academic journeys, even when those journeys are interrupted. The university’s enrollment management recognizes that a gap exists when a student leaves campus without completing a degree and has committed resources to bring them back.
The partnership provides intensive reengagement support for these returning students. This comprehensive support system is designed to address the various factors that might have led to a student’s initial departure and to ensure their successful reintegration and completion of their studies. UMass Boston has a clear re-enrollment policy for inactive degree-seeking students, requiring them to complete an application to reactivate their accounts.
The Role of ReUp Education in Statewide Initiatives
The statewide effort, including UMass Boston’s successful re-enrollment program, is powered by a collaboration with ReUp Education, a national organization specializing in reconnecting with adult learners. ReUp Education works with public schools facing limited resources for extensive outreach to former students, providing college coaches who can guide individuals through the process of returning to complete their degrees. This partnership model has demonstrated success in other states, with ReUp Education assisting tens of thousands of adult students in re-enrolling nationwide.
Beyond UMass Boston, six other public institutions in Massachusetts are also actively engaging with ReUp Education, including Bunker Hill Community College, Cape Cod Community College, Greenfield Community College, MassBay Community College, Fitchburg State University, and UMass Dartmouth. This collective effort highlights a shared understanding across the Commonwealth’s higher education system that investing in degree completion for former students is a vital strategy for both individual advancement and state-level economic growth. The Healey-Driscoll Administration launched a pilot program on December 2, 2025, to re-engage students who did not complete degrees or certificates at public colleges and universities, emphasizing direct student outreach and coaching provided by ReUp Education.
Intensive Support for Returning Students
The intensive reengagement support provided to returning UMass Boston students encompasses various crucial services aimed at facilitating a smooth transition back into academic life. This includes guidance on navigating academic requirements, credit transfers, and financial aid. For students who have been away for four or more consecutive semesters, new academic requirements may apply. Additionally, students who attended other institutions while away from UMass Boston are required to send official transcripts for review.
UMass Boston emphasizes personalized service for its students. From academic advising to registration support, faculty and staff are committed to providing resources necessary for success. The university also offers various support systems, including assistance with immunizations, updating biographical information, and resolving holds on student accounts. These comprehensive supports demonstrate a commitment to individual responsibility by equipping students with the tools and information needed to take charge of their academic paths and succeed.
Broadening Impact on the Massachusetts Economy
The commitment to degree completion initiatives extends beyond individual academic achievements, creating a tangible positive impact on the broader Massachusetts economy. By increasing the number of graduates, these programs directly contribute to a more educated and skilled workforce. This, in turn, fuels innovation, supports local industries, and enhances the state’s competitiveness in a globalized economy. The Department of Higher Education’s “Vision Project” focuses on increasing the percentage of students earning certificates and degrees to meet the state’s need for a highly educated citizenry and workforce, including removing barriers that slow student progress.
These initiatives align with the principles of self-reliance and community contribution, demonstrating how investing in education can yield significant returns for both individuals and the collective good. The ability for individuals to complete their degrees strengthens their personal economic prospects and enriches the intellectual capital available to businesses and communities throughout Massachusetts. This strategic approach to education is essential for building leadership and ensuring the long-term prosperity of the Commonwealth.
Summary of Massachusetts Public Colleges Re-enrollment Initiative
| Key Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Lead Institution | University of Massachusetts Boston (UMass Boston) |
| Students Re-enrolled (UMass Boston) | 260 former students |
| Key Partner | ReUp Education (National Organization) |
| Support Provided | Intensive reengagement support, college coaching |
| Statewide Context | Several public colleges in Massachusetts are involved |
| Legislative Support | Acts of 2024 Chapter 238 (Economic Leadership Act) |
| Broader Impact | Enhanced workforce, economic opportunity, innovation |
These ongoing efforts to reconnect former students with their academic goals underscore a vital truth: education is a lifelong endeavor, and providing opportunities for degree completion benefits everyone. The initiatives by the University of Massachusetts and other Massachusetts higher education institutions are fostering a culture of academic perseverance and personal growth. As these programs continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly strengthen Boston’s role as a hub of learning and innovation.
We encourage all interested individuals to explore the many programs offered by local institutions. Stay updated on Boston MA college news and consider how these educational opportunities can empower personal success and contribute to the community. Your future, and the future of Massachusetts, depends on a well-educated and engaged citizenry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the primary goal of the re-enrollment initiatives at Massachusetts public colleges?
A: The primary goal is to reconnect with students who left before earning their degrees, offering them pathways to complete their studies and enhance their contribution to the Commonwealth’s economy.
Q: Which specific university has re-enrolled a significant number of former students?
A: The University of Massachusetts Boston has re-enrolled 260 former students through a partnership.
Q: What kind of support is provided to former students returning to UMass Boston?
A: UMass Boston provides intensive reengagement support, including guidance on academic requirements, credit transfers, and financial aid, to help former students successfully return to their studies.
Q: How does the statewide initiative impact the Massachusetts economy?
A: By increasing the number of graduates, these programs contribute to a more educated and skilled workforce, fueling innovation, supporting local industries, and enhancing the state’s competitiveness.
Q: What legislative act supports community development and economic opportunities in Massachusetts?
A: The Acts of 2024 Chapter 238, known as “An Act relative to strengthening Massachusetts’ economic leadership,” provides for programs supporting community development, economic opportunities, and job creation.
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Massachusetts Colleges Support Student Re-Enrollment
Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
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