Overview: University of Maryland, College Park
The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) is the flagship institution of the University System of Maryland, founded in 1856. Located in College Park, Maryland, USA, it sits just outside Washington, D.C., enabling unique academic and governmental partnerships. UMD is a large, public, research-intensive university with a comprehensive academic profile. It serves over 41,000 students—including more than 30,000 undergraduates and approximately 11,000 graduate students—across 12 schools and colleges. Its faculty number exceeds 4,600. The institution’s scale and impact make it a top-tier center for higher education in the United States and globally.
Academic Strengths and Structure
UMD is renowned for its strengths in engineering, computer science, business, and the social and natural sciences. Signature programs include its A. James Clark School of Engineering (ranked among the top 25 nationally), School of Public Policy, Robert H. Smith School of Business, and College of Information Studies. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches—integrating STEM fields with the humanities through initiatives such as the “Grand Challenges” research platform. UMD ranks among the top 50 global public universities (QS World University Rankings 2024) and is a member of the Association of American Universities (AAU). It has strategic research partnerships with NASA, NIH, and federal agencies, and its annual research expenditures exceed $1.1 billion. Collaborative degrees and international academic consortia reinforce its global outlook.
Student Life and Community
Campus life at UMD is vibrant and diverse, offering over 800 student organizations, including cultural clubs, professional societies, and academic associations. Students benefit from comprehensive support services—mentoring, counseling, and career guidance. Diversity and inclusion are core institutional values, reflected in a student body representing more than 120 countries. The university provides a range of housing options and is well-known for its NCAA Division I athletics, robust intramural sports, and prominent arts scene anchored by the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center. Annual events such as Maryland Day celebrate community and foster campus spirit, ensuring a holistic student experience.
Mission, Vision, and Values
UMD’s mission centers on advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and cultivating global citizens committed to equity and sustainability. The university aims to empower individuals to address the complex challenges of a changing world, guided by dedication to excellence, inclusivity, and service.
