Overview: University of Maryland, College Park
The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD), founded in 1856, is the flagship institution of the University System of Maryland. Located in College Park, just outside Washington, D.C., UMD is a major public research university in the United States. Renowned for its comprehensive academic portfolio, the university enrolls over 41,000 students and employs approximately 4,600 faculty members across its vibrant, centralized campus. As an institutional leader, UMD combines a strong research-intensive culture with extensive teaching commitments, serving both national and international communities.
UMD is particularly distinguished in engineering, computer science, business, public policy, and the natural sciences, with nationally ranked programs in aerospace engineering, information studies, and journalism. The university fosters interdisciplinary collaboration, promoting research and learning across its 12 colleges and schools. Consistently ranked among the world’s top 100 universities, UMD boasts over $1.1 billion in annual research expenditures and numerous collaborations with federal agencies and industry, including partnerships with NASA, NIH, and the Big Ten Academic Alliance. Accolades also include a robust track record in technology transfer and notable alumni, strengthening the university's global reputation.
Campus life at UMD is diverse and vibrant, featuring more than 800 student organizations, an active arts program, and extensive athletic facilities that support 20 varsity teams competing in the NCAA Division I Big Ten Conference. The university emphasizes an inclusive community, proudly hosting students from over 120 countries, and offering comprehensive support services for international and underrepresented groups. Residential living includes on-campus housing, living-learning communities, and a host of recreational, cultural, and wellness opportunities. The campus’s proximity to Washington, D.C., provides additional engagement with national cultural, academic, and professional resources.
UMD’s mission centers on advancing knowledge, fostering innovation, and promoting social responsibility. The university is committed to sustainability, equity, and preparing students to address the challenges of a global society with leadership, integrity, and creativity.
