University of Maryland, College Park: A Comprehensive Overview

Founded in 1856, the University of Maryland, College Park (UMD), often referred to as the University of Maryland, UMD, or simply Maryland, stands as the flagship institution of the state of Maryland and a top-ranked public research university. Situated in College Park, Maryland, within close proximity to Washington, D.C., UMD leverages its location to provide unparalleled opportunities for its students and faculty. With a rich history, diverse academic offerings, a vibrant campus community, and a commitment to innovation and research, UMD continues to be a leading force in higher education.

A Legacy of Growth and Transformation

The University of Maryland has undergone significant transformations since its establishment. Originally known as the Maryland Agricultural College, the institution faced numerous challenges, including financial difficulties following the Civil War. In 1866, the Maryland legislature assumed half ownership, marking the beginning of its transition into a state institution.

A turning point arrived in 1916 when the state purchased the college, renaming it Maryland State College. That same year, Elizabeth Gambrill Hook and Charlotte Ann Vaux became the first female students to enroll. In 1920, the college became part of the existing University of Maryland, solidifying its place as the university's undergraduate campus.

Throughout the 20th century, UMD continued to evolve, expanding its academic programs and increasing its enrollment. In 1951, the first black students enrolled, marking a significant step towards diversity and inclusion. President Wilson H. Elkins spearheaded efforts to raise academic standards, leading to the creation of one of the first Academic Probation Plans.

In 1988, a restructuring of Maryland's higher education system designated UMD as the flagship campus, officially named the University of Maryland, College Park. Despite facing challenges such as data breaches in 2014, the university has remained resilient, receiving a record-breaking donation of $219.5 million from the A. James & Alice B. Clark Foundation in 2017. In 2020, Darryll J. Pines became the 34th president of the university, continuing its legacy of leadership and innovation.

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Academics: A World of Opportunities

UMD's eleven schools and colleges offer over 200 degree-granting programs, including 113 undergraduate majors, 107 master's programs, and 83 doctoral programs. This comprehensive range of academic offerings ensures that students can find a program that aligns with their interests and career aspirations. The university prides itself on providing superior academic programs, world-class faculty, and a conducive learning environment.

As a member of the Association of American Universities, UMD is committed to advancing knowledge and fostering intellectual growth. The university's faculty includes four Nobel Prize laureates, including Juan Ramón Jiménez (1956), William Daniel Phillips, Thomas Schelling, and John C. Mather. Additionally, numerous alumni have achieved prominence in various fields, including Herbert Hauptman (Nobel Prize in Chemistry) and Charles Fefferman (Fields Medal).

UMD also emphasizes research and innovation, with several centers and institutes dedicated to advancing knowledge in specific areas. The National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START) is one such center, supported by the Department of Homeland Security. The university also fosters entrepreneurship, attracting investment, launching successful startups, and stimulating job creation.

Campus Life: A Vibrant Community

The University of Maryland, College Park, is more than just classrooms and libraries; it's a vibrant community where students, faculty, and staff come together to learn, grow, and make a difference. The campus spans 1,347 acres and offers a diverse array of experiences to enrich students' education.

Diversity and Inclusion

UMD embraces diversity and fosters a welcoming environment for students from all backgrounds. The university strives to create a community where everyone feels valued and respected. With students and professors from around the world, UMD offers a global perspective that enriches the learning experience.

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Student Life

There is more to the University of Maryland than what you learn in the classroom. Whatever experience you're looking for to round out your education, you can find it here. The campus is alive with activity, offering a wide range of clubs, organizations, and events to suit every interest. From academic societies to sports clubs to cultural organizations, there's something for everyone at UMD.

The university also hosts "living-learning" programs (LLPs) that allow students with similar academic interests to live in the same residential community, take specialized courses, and perform research in those areas of expertise. These programs provide a unique opportunity for students to connect with like-minded peers and deepen their knowledge in their chosen field.

Housing and Dining

There are two main residential areas on campus, North Campus and South Campus. North Campus includes Cambridge Community, Denton Community, Oakland Community, Ellicott Community, and the Courtyards. The Heritage community, completed in 2024, features two residence halls and a dining hall. Most residence halls have AC, but some do not.

There are three dining halls on campus, as well as a food court in the Stamp Student Union. The 251 North dining hall is located in the Denton Community on the northern part of campus.

Transportation

The University of Maryland is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The College Park-University of Maryland Metro station provides access to Downtown, Washington, D.C. The university is also accessible through the three airports in the greater Washington metropolitan area: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, Washington Dulles International Airport, and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport.

A free shuttle service, known as Shuttle-UM, is available for UMD students, faculty, staff, and some residents of College Park and Greenbelt. The university is also served by an off-campus stop on the Washington Metro's Green Line called College Park - University of Maryland, which is adjacent to a stop on the MARC Camden line.

Campus Landmarks and Facilities

The University of Maryland, College Park campus is home to several notable landmarks and facilities that contribute to its unique identity and enhance the student experience.

McKeldin Mall

The center of the university's campus is McKeldin Mall, the largest academic mall in the United States. Bordered by McKeldin Library and the Thomas V. Miller, Jr. Administration Building, the Mall serves as a central gathering place for students and faculty. Academic buildings surround McKeldin Mall on the north and south ends, housing various departments in the College of Behavioral and Social Sciences, College of Arts and Humanities, and the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources.

The "M"

Another iconic landmark is The "M", a mound with a large "M" formed by flowers in its center. Located at the intersection of Campus Drive and Regents Drive, The "M" is a popular spot for students to take photos and celebrate their Terp pride.

Athletic Facilities

UMD boasts top-notch athletic facilities, including the XFINITY Center, home of Maryland basketball. The university sponsors varsity athletic teams in 20 men's and women's sports, known as the "Terrapins."

Athletics: A Tradition of Excellence

The University of Maryland has a rich athletic tradition, with its teams competing in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I. Maryland became a founding member of the Atlantic Coast Conference in 1952 but joined the Big Ten Conference on July 1, 2014.

As of 2025, Maryland's athletic teams have been awarded 47 national championships by the NCAA, USILA, AIAW, and NCA. The Princeton Review named the University of Maryland's athletic facilities the best in the nation in 2008 and 2010.

Men's Basketball

Men's basketball is the most popular sport at the university. Long-time head coach Lefty Driesell began the now nationwide tradition of "Midnight Madness" in 1971. Alumnus Gary Williams revived the program in 1989, leading Maryland basketball to national prominence with two Final Four appearances and a national championship in 2002.

Men's Lacrosse

Maryland men's lacrosse remains one of the sport's top programs since its beginnings as a squad in 1865. The team most recently won the national championship in 2022, completing an undefeated season.

Men's Soccer

The men's soccer team has won four NCAA Division I College Cup national championships, most recently in 2018. Under the guidance of head coach Sasho Cirovski, the soccer team has reached nine Final Fours and won three College Cups since 1997.

Admissions and Rankings

University of Maryland, College Park accepts the Common Application and has a test-optional admissions policy. In the 2026 edition of Best Colleges, University of Maryland, College Park is ranked No. 42 in National Universities and No. 16 in Top Public Schools by U.S. News & World Report.

For the Class of 2026 (enrolled fall 2022), Maryland received 56,766 applications and accepted 19,451 (34.3%). The school's in-state tuition and fees are $11,809; out-of-state tuition and fees are $41,186. Thirty-five percent of first-year students receive need-based financial aid, and the average net price for federal loan recipients is $16,590. The four-year graduation rate is 77%. Six years after graduation, the median salary for graduates is $67,785.

The University of Maryland, College Park is a college sponsor of the National Merit Scholarship Program and sponsored 58 Merit Scholarship awards in 2020.

Notable Alumni

The University of Maryland, College Park has produced numerous notable alumni who have made significant contributions to various fields. These include:

Steny Hoyer: House Democratic Whip
Sergey Brin: Google co-founder
Jim Henson: The Muppets creator
David Simon: The Wire creator
Norman "Boomer" Esiason: Former NFL Quarterback
Gayle King: CBS host
Connie Chung: Journalist
Larry David: Seinfeld co-creator and Curb Your Enthusiasm creator
Ed Snider: Former chairman of Comcast Spectacor and former owner of the Philadelphia Flyers
Jim Walton: Former president and CEO of CNN
Kevin Plank: Founder and executive chairman of Under Armour
Chris Kubasik: Former president of Lockheed Martin
Carly Fiorina: Former CEO of Hewlett-Packard
Raymond Davis Jr.: Nobel laureate in Physics
Herbert Hauptman: Nobel laureate in Chemistry
Charles Fefferman: Fields Medal winner
George Dantzig: Considered the father of linear programming
Judith Resnik: NASA astronaut
Michael D. Griffin: NASA Administrator

Philanthropy: Supporting the Future

The University of Maryland, College Park, has benefited from the generosity of numerous donors who have made significant contributions to support its mission and enhance its programs.

Robert H. Smith: Gave over $45 million to the business school and the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center.
A. James Clark: Donated over $45 million to the college of engineering.
Jeong H. Kim: Gave $5 million for the construction of a state-of-the-art engineering building.
Philip Merrill: Donated $10 million to the College of Journalism.
Robert E. Fischell: Donated $30 million to the A. James Clark School of Engineering, establishing the Fischell Department of Bioengineering.

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