The Universities at Shady Grove: A Hub for Higher Education in Maryland
The Universities at Shady Grove (USG) stands as a unique model within the University System of Maryland, offering a collaborative and accessible pathway to higher education for mid-career working professionals and non-traditional students. Located in Rockville, Maryland, in the heart of Montgomery County, USG provides a central location where nine public universities collaborate to offer their degree programs. Founded in 2000, USG has become a vital resource for students seeking to complete their bachelor's and master's degrees.
History and Formation
The concept of USG began in 1992 as part of the University of Maryland University College. Recognizing the need for a more focused and collaborative approach to higher education in the region, it reformed under its present name in 2000. This restructuring allowed USG to expand its offerings and better serve the diverse needs of its student population.
A Unique Educational Model
USG operates as a regional higher education center within the University System of Maryland. This means that students do not apply directly to USG itself, but rather to the specific university offering the program they wish to pursue. Students are taught by the same professors, take the same courses, and follow the same curriculum as students enrolled at the university's main campus. This ensures that students at USG receive a high-quality education that is equivalent to that offered at the main campus.
Programs Offered
USG offers a wide array of undergraduate and graduate degree programs across various disciplines. These programs are designed to meet the needs of a diverse student body, including working professionals and transfer students.
Here are some examples of the types of degrees offered at USG:
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- Bachelor of Science (B.S.)
- Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)
- Bachelor of Fine Arts (B.F.A.)
- Bachelor of Technology and Professional Studies (B.T.P.S.)
- Master of Science (M.S.)
- Master of Arts (M.A.)
- Master of Professional Studies (M.P.S.)
- Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.)
- Master of Arts in Teaching (M.A.T.)
- Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Focus on Transfer Students
A key feature of USG is its focus on serving transfer students. All undergraduate programs at USG are geared toward providing upper-division coursework (junior and senior year) for students seeking bachelor's degrees. This makes USG an ideal option for students who have completed their associate's degrees at community colleges and are looking to continue their education at a four-year university. Most credit earned at Maryland community colleges will transfer, and students can choose from a variety of majors, with classes offered at times that meet their schedules.
Partner Universities
USG is a partner campus of nine Maryland universities, including:
- University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)
- University of Maryland, College Park (UMD)
These universities collaborate to offer their top degree programs, as well as certificate and continuing education programs, at the USG campus.
Student Resources and Support
USG is committed to providing its students with the resources and support they need to succeed. The campus offers a range of services, including:
- Advising
- Financial aid assistance
- Career and internship opportunities
- Academic support
- A library
- Fitness center
- Cafe
At the Universities at Shady Grove campus, students work closely with professors from nationally ranked academic programs.
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Terp Transfer Partnership
The University of Maryland, the Universities at Shady Grove, and Montgomery College have worked together to offer the Terp Transfer Partnership, which benefits students while they are still enrolled at Montgomery College and creates a seamless pathway to one of the University of Maryland programs offered at the Universities at Shady Grove.
A Thriving Community
USG is more than just a place to earn a degree; it is a thriving community of students, faculty, and staff. The campus hosts a variety of events and activities throughout the year, providing students with opportunities to connect with their peers and engage with the broader community.
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