Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does the name change mean for Massachusetts public higher education?

Legislation enacted on July 28, 2010 created the Massachusetts state university system. The bill recognizes that the Massachusetts state colleges already were regional teaching universities in everything but name. As comprehensive institutions offering undergraduate and graduate degrees in a wide range of disciplines, the state colleges all met nationally recognized criteria of being universities.

As a result of this bill, six comprehensive state colleges will be renamed as Bridgewater State University, Fitchburg State University, Framingham State University, Salem State University, Westfield State University and Worcester State University. Three state colleges - Massachusetts College of Art and Design, Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts and Massachusetts Maritime Academy - which have very specialized missions, will retain their existing names but as members of a state university system.

How will the name change benefit students?

Graduating from a campus within a state university system, with academic offerings on par with teaching universities across the nation, will help our students compete on a more equal footing, especially as 45 other states have already moved to state university systems. A state university system more accurately describes the breadth and depth of educational offerings and opportunities available to our students.

When will we be called Bridgewater State University?

Immediately. Though all non-emergency bills signed into law are subject to a 90-day waiting period before they officially take effect, for all intents and purposes we are now Bridgewater State University and should refer to the institution as such. No additional action is needed by the Board of Trustees or the Administration.

When will Bridgewater State University diplomas be issued?

Beginning with the January 2011 commencement ceremony, all students will receive Bridgewater State University diplomas. Students graduating in August 2010 will receive a Bridgewater State College diploma.

Will alumni be able order a new diploma with the university moniker?

This matter is currently under discussion.

Will the university's five schools now be referred to as colleges?

Authority to rename the schools as colleges rests with the Board of Trustees. This option will be proposed to the Board this fall.

Will the name change result in higher admission standards for students?

No. Admissions standards were set by the Board of Higher Education for the system as a whole and have been in place for over a decade. This law does not change them. The change to a state university system is one of name only; it does not change our mission of expanding access to higher education for residents of the Commonwealth.

Will the name change result in an increase in student tuition and fees?

No. We are committed to maintaining our distinction as the most affordable path to a four-year degree or specialized master's program. Student costs will not increase as a result of the change to a state university system.

Is financial aid impacted by the name change?

No. The same forms, procedures and standards for applying for and receiving financial aid will continue to apply.

Will the name change affect faculty teaching responsibilities?

No. This law does not alter the teaching load, scholarly requirements, advising and other responsibilities, nor faculty compensation.

How will this change impact transfer students?

The change will not impact transfer students. The same requirements and standards for transferring credits will apply. Transfer students will not see any increase in costs as a result of the new law.

Will the name change result in new programs?

No. The law does not approve any new programs. New programs will continue to need to be approved by the state Department and Board of Higher Education according to procedures already in place.

Will this change give the state universities the ability to offer doctoral degrees?

No. The new law does not authorize the state universities to offer any new degrees, including doctorates. Prior to the state university law, the state colleges were able to offer doctoral degrees only in conjunction with the University of Massachusetts. This new law does not change that requirement nor approve any new doctoral programs.

Will the name change increase the size of Bridgewater's student body?

No. Consistent with the institution's strategic plan, the student population of Bridgewater State University will grow only modestly for the foreseeable future.

Are the state colleges now part of UMass?

No. The state universities are not part of the UMass system. The state university system and University of Massachusetts serve very different missions. UMass is a research university, focused on research and training of students at the doctoral level. The state universities will remain teaching universities, with faculty who concentrate on teaching, scholarship and service. In addition, Bridgewater State University will retain its local Board of Trustees.

As state universities, will the schools now jump up to Division I in athletics?

No. The state universities will continue to compete in sports within their current division level.

When will signage be changed?

Signage will be changed gradually over the course of the 2010-11 academic year. Please consult the Transition Timetable for more information.

When will stationery (letterhead, business cards, etc.) be changed?

Stationery bearing the new university logo will be available in late August. In an effort to be fiscally conscious and environmentally responsible, employees are strongly encouraged to deplete all existing supplies before ordering replacements.

Will there be a celebratory event to mark this change?

Yes. An official ceremony on the Boyden Quadrangle will be held at 5:00pm on September 1, 2010. This event coincides with the annual Opening Day Barbeque and will be open to all students, employees and alumni.

Will the university's web address (www.bridgew.edu) remain the same?

For the time being, yes. This matter is currently under discussion.

Will Bridgewater State College "Connect" cards still be usable on campus and with local vendors?

Yes. Connect cards will function as normal both on and off campus

Do I need a new parking pass?

Your existing parking remains valid through its expiration date.

How should alumni and former employees of Bridgewater State College list the name of the institution on their resumes and/or vitas?

It is acceptable to use the moniker of "Bridgewater State University" on resumes and vitas irrespective of the dates of employment and/or graduation. If you so choose, it is also acceptable to use either "Bridgewater State University (formerly Bridgewater State College") or "Bridgewater State College (now Bridgewater State University)."

Are there any special considerations given the 90-day legal waiting period (expires on October 28, 2010)?

All contracts initiated by or with the institution should read "Bridgewater State College" through October 28, 2010. Similarly, checks made to the institution should be addressed to "Bridgewater State College" through the same date. Lastly, no transcripts, grade reports or diplomas bearing the name "Bridgewater State University" will be issued before the waiting period has expired.

Where can I go with additional questions or suggest additions to the current list of Frequenty Asked Questions (FAQs)?

Bryan Baldwin, Chief of Staff in the President's Office, is coordinating all facets of the transition. He may be reached at bbaldwin@bridgew.edu or by calling the President's Office at (508) 531-1201.

Last Modified: August 18, 2010