Best
Private Colleges in Maryland in 2027

Business Administration

Studying a business administration program in Maryland combines foundational business knowledge with practical skills in communication, leadership, and analysis. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, and data analytics. Maryland students can explore programs at the University of Maryland, College Park, Towson University, UMBC, Loyola University Maryland, Morgan State University, and Salisbury University. Graduates commonly pursue entry-level roles such as management analyst, marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, or operations manager.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Maryland offers coursework in research methods, developmental psychology, social behavior, cognition, statistics, and abnormal psychology. Students learn to assess evidence, understand mental processes, and apply psychological principles. Options include the University of Maryland, College Park, Towson University, Johns Hopkins University, and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Graduates pursue roles in human resources, case management, behavioral health support, research assistance, or community services; clinical practice generally requires advanced education and supervised training.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Maryland combines programming fundamentals with access to technology employers and research centers. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, computer architecture, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students often build skills through projects, internships, and collaboration. Popular choices include the University of Maryland, College Park, Johns Hopkins University, UMBC, and Towson University. Graduates commonly pursue roles as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or machine learning engineers.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Maryland combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural counseling, assessment, group therapy, and career guidance. Students typically complete supervised practicum or internship experience. Popular Maryland options include Loyola University Maryland, McDaniel College, Bowie State University, and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, licensed professional counselors, behavioral health counselors, college advisers, or substance-use counselors, depending on degree level, specialization, and state licensure requirements.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Maryland combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, mental health, pediatrics, and community health. Graduates commonly work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, schools, or public health agencies, with specialties such as emergency, pediatric, and critical-care nursing. Popular Maryland colleges include Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Towson University, and Salisbury University.

Best Colleges in Maryland Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is $39,356, compared with $55,230 at schools in the top 10% of the ranking.
• An average of 100% of students receive financial aid overall, compared with 70.19% at top-10% schools. The average acceptance rate is 70.19%.
• Schools receive an average of 5,885.88 applicants; top-10% schools average 8,419 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 1,261, while the median number of female applicants is 2,115.
• The average SAT score is 1,304 and the average ACT score is 28.5.
• Schools enroll an average of 3,093.37 students, including averages of 174.33 men and 227.57 women.
• The average graduation rate is 55.94%, compared with 83.5% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 54% for men and 70% for women.
• Three institutions offer associate's degrees, 19 offer bachelor's degrees, 16 offer master's degrees, and six offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 16 coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside admissions figures, academic measures, enrollment, and graduation rates. Consider how degree offerings and the reported graduation outcomes align with your educational goals.

How much does studying at a college in Maryland cost?

Based on the figures, the average total cost of studying in Maryland is $35,582.89. Reported averages also include tuition and fees of $38,976.84, room and board of $15,426.93, and books and supplies of $1,229.15. Because these figures do not add up to the reported total, treat them as separate estimates rather than a precise itemized budget.

For a Maryland student, costs can vary between public and private institutions and by program. The University of Maryland, College Park, UMBC, Towson University, and Johns Hopkins University are popular options to compare as you explore colleges. Ask each school about tuition for residents, financial aid, housing, and required materials; these details can shape what you pay. If you're living at home, commuting, or choosing campus housing, your room-and-board expenses may differ from the state average. Scholarships and grants can make college feel more affordable, so check aid offers early and compare your net price before enrolling.

How long does it take to finish college in Maryland?

In Maryland, a bachelor's degree typically takes four years of full-time study, and an associate degree usually takes about two years. Your timeline can stretch if you attend part time, change majors, or need prerequisite courses; planning early can help you stay on track. At the University of Maryland, UMBC, or Towson University, check your program's course sequence and advising options before enrolling.

Maryland's average graduation rate is 55.94%, so completing a degree is achievable but not automatic; the average is 83.5% among the top 10% of schools. Rates are 49.25% for men and 68.73% for women, underscoring the value of support and persistence.

Ask an advisor about credit limits before choosing an accelerated route; support makes a quicker pace manageable. You may finish sooner by:

• Bringing in AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits
• Taking summer courses or heavier course loads
• Using credit-by-exam or approved prior-learning options, where offered

Salary

After graduating from college in Maryland, alumni earn a median salary of about $49,836. Graduates of schools ranked among the top 10% earn a median of about $65,843, giving you an encouraging benchmark as you consider your options.

Maryland offers a range of well-known colleges and universities, including the University of Maryland, Johns Hopkins University, Towson University, and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. The figures above are broad benchmarks, not salary guarantees for graduates of any particular school; your earnings can vary with your field, experience, and career path.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Maryland?

There's no objective winner, but Johns Hopkins University's Homewood campus in Baltimore is a strong contender. Its red-brick Georgian buildings, leafy pathways, and welcoming central quad create a classic campus feel, especially in spring and fall. If you're nearby, walking around Homewood can be a lovely way to picture student life.

What is the most selective college in Maryland?

Johns Hopkins University is generally considered Maryland's most selective college, with a very low acceptance rate in recent admission cycles. That makes admission highly competitive, so strong grades and thoughtful applications matter. For Maryland students, its selectivity is balanced by the excitement of studying at a globally recognized university close to home.

What is the richest university in Maryland?

By endowment, Johns Hopkins University is the richest university in Maryland. Its multibillion-dollar endowment is substantially larger than those of other Maryland universities and helps support research, financial aid, and academic programs. For prospective students, that financial strength can mean access to impressive resources, though aid and costs vary by individual circumstances.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Maryland Ranking in 2026-2027

Johns Hopkins University offers Maryland students a major research university experience in Baltimore, with 29,969 enrolled students. Its 94% graduation rate and 6% acceptance rate indicate strong outcomes and selective admission. Total cost of studying is $64,730, while median alumni salary is $48,926. Students can explore a broad range of disciplines and benefit from the city's hospitals, cultural institutions, and professional networks while pursuing a degree close to home in Maryland. Baltimore provides an energetic urban setting for campus life.

Washington College gives Maryland students a small liberal arts setting in Chestertown on the Eastern Shore. It enrolls 933 students, with a 65% graduation rate and 57% acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $53,190, and median alumni salary is $41,864. Its intimate scale can appeal to students seeking close faculty interaction and a quieter campus community. Chestertown's historic waterfront location offers an alternative to Baltimore-area study while keeping students within Maryland for classes, campus activities, and exploration.

St. John's College in Annapolis offers Maryland students a liberal arts education in the state capital. Its 583 enrolled students, 71% graduation rate, and 55% acceptance rate describe a small campus with moderately selective admission. The total cost of studying is $39,356, and median alumni salary is $28,611. Known for a discussion-centered Great Books approach, the college suits learners drawn to classic texts and seminar-style classes. Annapolis adds historic streets, waterfront views, and access to Maryland's government and cultural life.

Stevenson University offers Maryland students a career-oriented university experience in suburban Baltimore County. It enrolls 3,717 students, with a 68% graduation rate and 79% acceptance rate. The total cost of studying is $37,734, while median alumni salary is $55,250, the highest figure among these five schools. Students can consider its range of professional and liberal arts programs and enjoy a campus setting near Owings Mills. Baltimore-area employers, services, and cultural attractions are also within reach during a Maryland degree program.

Goucher College in Towson gives Maryland students a small liberal arts campus near Baltimore. It enrolls 1,586 students; its graduation rate is 57%, and its acceptance rate is 78%. The total cost of studying is $53,100, with median alumni salary of $34,822. Goucher is known for an international outlook and a required study-abroad experience, offering students opportunities to learn beyond the classroom. Its location combines a residential college atmosphere with access to Baltimore's internships, arts, and broader Maryland communities nearby.