Tips
As an online student, you have special privileges at the UMass Amherst Library. You can access articles and other materials online, you can speak with a subject specialist librarian and you can order print materials delivered to your home.
Tricks
How do I get access to SPIRE, UMail and online library resources?
You need to activate your Student OIT Account to get access to SPIRE, UMail, and Online library resources.
What should I expect after I’ve enrolled in my first course prior to being formally accepted to the program?
After your enrollment request has been processed and you’ve been added to the course, you will receive an email to your Non-UMass email address with instructions to activate your OIT Accounts for UMail (UMass email) and SPIRE (online student information system) . Once this email is sent to you, all future university correspondences will be sent to your UMail email address. Check this email regularly for updates and notices from UMass.
What course materials, such as textbooks, are required for my course?
Once you have been enrolled in a course and have access to SPIRE, you can find out what course materials will be required by looking at your course schedule in SPIRE.
Can I preview my classes before they begin?
Yes! One week prior to the official start date of each course, you can preview the course to familiarize yourself with the course syllabus, get details about course materials, and introduce yourself to the professor and fellow students. Go to
UMass Online to login to your class.
How do I access my online class for the first time?
To access your online class for the first time, check your UMail account for an email that contains your username and password details. If you enrolled in the course more than one week ago and still do not have access, please contact us. Go to UMass Online to login to your class.
Current Student
