Most
Affordable Colleges in Maryland in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Maryland combines foundational coursework with access to an economy spanning government, healthcare, technology, and finance. Typical classes include accounting, marketing, management, economics, business law, finance, and operations. Students develop skills in communication, data analysis, and leadership. Popular options include the University of Maryland, College Park, Towson University, UMBC, Loyola University Maryland, and the University of Baltimore. Graduates pursue varied roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, project managers, or human resources specialists.

Psychology

Studying a psychology program in Maryland combines scientific study of behavior with applications. Students take courses in introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, abnormal psychology, social psychology, and cognition. Maryland options include University of Maryland, College Park, Towson University, UMBC, Johns Hopkins University, and Salisbury University. Graduates with a bachelor's degree may pursue roles such as research assistant, case manager, human resources assistant, or behavioral health technician; advanced study is needed for clinical practice.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Maryland offers access to universities, research centers, and technology employers. Programs typically cover programming, data structures, algorithms, computer systems, databases, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students build practical skills through labs, projects, and internships. Popular options include the University of Maryland, College Park; Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore; and Towson University. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data scientists, or IT consultants across Maryland's economy.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Maryland typically combines psychology foundations with supervised practice. Courses often cover counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural counseling, assessment, group counseling, and clinical practicum. Graduates may pursue roles such as school counselor, licensed professional counselor, mental health counselor, substance use counselor, or career counselor, depending on degree and licensure. Maryland options include Loyola University Maryland, Johns Hopkins University, University of Maryland College Park, and McDaniel College, with programs spanning specialties.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Maryland prepares students to provide safe, evidence-based care in settings. Programs typically cover anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and clinical practice. Graduates may work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, health, or community agencies; advanced study can lead to roles such as nurse practitioner. Maryland options include the University of Maryland School of Nursing, Johns Hopkins University, Towson University, and University of Maryland Eastern Shore.

Best Colleges in Maryland Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The total median cost of studying is 25,213.0, compared with 53,163.0 at schools in the top 10%, making the top 10% figure higher.
• An average of 100.0% of students receive financial aid, compared with an average of 71.93% at top 10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 71.93%. Schools receive an average of 9,334.41 applicants, while schools in the top 10% average 21,212.6 applicants. The median number of applicants is 1,608.0 for men and 2,587.0 for women.
• The average SAT score is 1,151.45, and the average ACT score is 24.7.
• The average number of enrolled students is 7,559.59; average enrollment is 410.15 men and 522.76 women.
• The average graduation rate is 52.84%, compared with 78.3% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 47.0% for men and 67.0% for women.
• Among the institutions, 6 offer associate's degrees, 32 offer bachelor's degrees, 28 offer master's degrees, and 16 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 31 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare the total cost with the financial aid available, and weigh those costs against admissions selectivity, SAT and ACT scores, enrollment, and graduation outcomes. The figures vary across schools, so consider which factors best fit your academic goals and circumstances.

How much does studying at a college in Maryland cost?

The average reported total cost of studying in Maryland is $29,151.41. For a student planning to earn a degree in the state, this is a practical benchmark for comparing options, although your actual expenses will depend on the college, program, housing choice, and financial aid. Other reported averages are:

• Tuition and fees: $26,407.79
• Room and board: $15,525.10
• Books and supplies: $1,334.96

When researching popular choices such as the University of Maryland, College Park, Towson University, or Johns Hopkins University, compare each school's published cost of attendance rather than relying on a single statewide average. Tuition can differ substantially by institution and residency status, while living on campus versus commuting can change room-and-board costs. The figures provide a helpful first step - not a guarantee of your personal bill. Exploring scholarships, grants, and in-state options can make the path feel more manageable and help you build a budget with confidence.

How long does it take to finish college in Maryland?

Most full-time students in Maryland need about two years for an associate degree and four years for a bachelor's degree with full-time, year-round enrollment; part-time study can take longer. At the University of Maryland, Towson University, or UMBC, the timeline depends on program requirements, course availability, and whether credits transfer.

Maryland's average graduation rate is 52.84%, while the top 10% of schools average 78.3%. Rates average 46.83% for men and 61.0% for women, showing that completion varies and planning support matters.

To finish sooner, consider:

• Bring eligible AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits; confirm each college accepts them.
• Take summer or winter-session classes and map prerequisites with an adviser to avoid delays.
• Start at a Maryland community college, then transfer an approved associate-degree pathway to a four-year campus.
• Ask about accelerated, online, or competency-based options; steady course loads and early advising can make a faster route feel more manageable and affordable.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Maryland have a median alumni salary of $49,381. At schools in the top 10% nationally, the median alumni salary is about $64,151 - a promising benchmark as you plan how a degree could support your career and financial goals.

Maryland offers a range of options, including the University of Maryland, College Park; Johns Hopkins University; Towson University; and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. These figures are broad benchmarks, not salary guarantees for graduates of any one school. Your earnings can vary with your field, experience, location, and the specific program you choose.

• Median alumni salary: $49,381
• Median at top 10% of schools: about $64,151

People also ask

What college in Maryland has the lowest tuition?

There isn't one college that is always the least expensive: tuition depends on whether you qualify for in-county, in-state, or out-of-state rates, and fees can change the total. Maryland community colleges are generally the most affordable place to start, especially for residents paying their local county rate. Compare current tuition and fees for your county before choosing.

What college in Maryland has the lowest GPA requirement?

Many Maryland community colleges have open-admission policies for general enrollment, so they typically do not set a minimum high-school GPA for admission. That means there may not be one college with the uniquely lowest requirement. Some competitive programs, however, require a particular GPA or prerequisite courses, so check the requirements for your intended program.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Affordable Colleges Ranking in Maryland Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in College Park, the University of Maryland-College Park offers Maryland students a large public university experience near Washington, D.C. Its 42,290 enrolled students create extensive campus and academic opportunities. The graduation rate is 89%, and the acceptance rate is 45%. The reported total study cost is $39,464, while median alumni salary is $59,961. For a Maryland applicant, compare this figure with your aid package and living expenses; the university's broad program selection may suit students seeking scale and career connections.

Coppin State University in Baltimore offers Maryland students a smaller, urban public-campus setting with close access to the city's neighborhoods and employers. It enrolls 2,211 students, with a 26% graduation rate and 46% acceptance rate. The reported total study cost is $11,956, the lowest among these five schools, while median alumni salary is $52,722. Applicants should weigh affordability against completion outcomes and explore available academic support, campus services, and programs aligned with their career plans before choosing a Maryland degree.

Situated in Baltimore County, the University of Maryland-Baltimore County gives Maryland students a research-oriented public university experience in the Baltimore region. Its 13,530 students benefit from a mid-sized campus, and its graduation rate is 70%; the acceptance rate is 72%. The reported total study cost is $27,392, and median alumni salary is $51,852. Compare these figures with financial aid and commuting or housing costs, then consider whether UMBC's academic offerings and regional location match your goals as a Maryland student.

Morgan State University, a historically Black public university in Baltimore, offers Maryland residents a campus community rooted in the city and a range of undergraduate pathways. Enrollment is 10,739; the graduation rate is 41%, and the acceptance rate is 82%. Its reported total study cost of $16,593 is relatively accessible among these options, while median alumni salary is $46,656. Prospective students can compare programs, support services, and financial aid, and consider how Morgan State's location fits their travel and career interests.

The University of Baltimore provides an urban public-university option for Maryland students seeking programs connected to the state's largest city. Its 3,232 enrolled students form a campus community. The graduation rate is 38%, with a 79% acceptance rate. Reported total study cost is $21,582, and median alumni salary is $58,633. As you assess a degree in Maryland, compare tuition and aid details, investigate available majors and student services, and consider whether a city-based campus suits your learning style and goals.