The Hampshire cohort at MCLA
Continue Your Path. With Your People.
We recognize that transferring was not part of your original plan. This change may
bring uncertainty, disruption, and difficult choices. We want to provide you with
some clarity, support, and hopefully, relief.
MCLA has been working diligently over the past few days to develop and launch the
Hampshire cohort. It’s a thoughtfully and intentionally designed transfer experience
that prioritizes belonging, continuity, and personal support for Hampshire students
who decide that MCLA is the right next step.
Why MCLA is such a good fit
MCLA is a stable, public liberal arts college and receives financial support from the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Currently, MCLA is in the best financial position in institutional history. Our students are known by name, supported by dedicated faculty and staff, and prepared for success without unnecessary student debt.
For Hampshire students, MCLA offers:
✓ Small classes and close faculty mentorship
✓ An affordability model that prioritizes long‑term financial stability
✓ An environment where difference is celebrated and belonging is prioritized
✓ A campus culture focused on personal, academic, and community well‑being
✓ Strong outcomes provide return-on-investment and solid career preparation
The Hampshire cohort Experience at MCLA
Hampshire students who transfer to MCLA will join the Hampshire cohort, a group intentionally designed to support students during academic transition. The cohort model ensures that students:
- Transition together rather than individually
- Continue peer connections with fellow Hampshire students
- Retain a sense of continuity while joining the broader MCLA community
This approach reflects MCLA’s belief that students succeed best when they feel connected,
supported, and grounded during times of change.
Housing Together
Members of the Hampshire cohort will be offered the opportunity to live together in comfortable campus housing. This ensures a supporting community, familiarity, and peer connection outside the classroom for Hampshire transfers. Living together helps:
- Provides familiarity and reduces disruption
- Creates a natural peer support network
- Fosters belonging early in the transition
A Dedicated Hampshire cohort Mentor
Students in the Hampshire cohort will be supported by a dedicated Hampshire cohort mentor, specifically for students transferring from Hampshire College. This mentor will:
- Serve as a consistent point of contact
- Help students navigate advising, registration, and campus resources
- Provide ongoing support throughout the transition and beyond
At MCLA, students don’t just receive information — they receive personal support.
Academics & Credit Transfer
MCLA is committed to honoring the academic work Hampshire students have already completed.
Under the approved transfer agreement:
- Coursework will be reviewed individually and in good faith
- MCLA will make every effort to apply Hampshire credits toward degree requirements
- Residency requirements will be waived
Tuition and financial aid policies follow MCLA standards, with proximity‑rate consideration
Ready to Start with MCLA's Hampshire Cohort?
Begin Your Application
MCLA offers a streamlined application process for Hampshire College students. After completing this form, you will automatically receive login credentials for the Hampshire online application.
Hi, I’m Justina, Your Dedicated Hampshire Transfer Admission Rep
Justina Trova '11 (SHE, Her, hers)
Associate Director of Admission
justina.trova@mcla.edu
413-662-5498
Choosing where to continue your education is a personal decision, and each student’s path will be different. If MCLA feels like a path you would like to explore, I am here to help you discover more about us.
The new Hampshire cohort reflects our commitment to providing a transfer experience rooted in care, clarity, and community. You will come to learn what makes MCLA special, and I will make sure the process is as smooth as possible!