University of Maryland, College Park Profile, Rankings

Introduction:

The University of Maryland, College Park, commonly referred to as UMD, is a public research university located in the city of College Park, Maryland. It is the flagship institution of the University System of Maryland and one of the largest universities in the state. UMD was founded in 1856 as the Maryland Agricultural College and became a full-fledged university in 1920.

Academics:

UMD offers more than 90 undergraduate majors and 120 graduate degree programs across 12 colleges and schools. Some of the most popular majors include computer science, engineering, business, biology, psychology, and communication. The university also has a highly regarded honors college that provides a unique academic experience for high-achieving students.

The university is known for its strong programs in a variety of fields, including engineering, computer science, business, and the arts. UMD is consistently ranked among the top 25 public universities in the United States by U.S. News & World Report. In addition, the university is a member of the Association of American Universities, a prestigious organization that recognizes the top research universities in North America.

Research:

Research is a key part of UMD’s mission, and the university is home to numerous research centers and institutes. These include the Institute for Systems Research, the Maryland Cybersecurity Center, and the Joint Quantum Institute, among others. The university is also a member of several research consortia, including the Big Ten Academic Alliance and the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities.

UMD is particularly known for its research in the fields of engineering, computer science, and physics. In fact, the university is one of the top recipients of federal research funding in the United States, with over $500 million in research expenditures in 2020 alone. UMD researchers have made significant contributions to fields such as cybersecurity, quantum computing, and biotechnology.

Student Life:

UMD has a vibrant campus life, with over 800 student organizations and a range of recreational facilities and events. The university has a strong athletic program, with teams competing in the Big Ten Conference. Notable alumni include Kevin Plank, the founder of Under Armour, and Sergey Brin, the co-founder of Google.

The university is also located in a prime location, just a few miles outside of Washington, D.C. Students have access to a wealth of cultural and social opportunities in the nation’s capital, including museums, theaters, and historic sites.

Campus:

UMD’s main campus is situated on over 1,250 acres in College Park, Maryland. The campus features a mix of historic and modern buildings, including the iconic Main Administration Building, which was built in 1859. In recent years, the university has invested heavily in new facilities, including the Brendan Iribe Center for Computer Science and Engineering, which opened in 2019.

The university also has several satellite campuses and research facilities across Maryland, including the University of Maryland, Baltimore and the University of Maryland, Baltimore County.

Admissions:

UMD is a selective university, with an acceptance rate of around 44% for the fall 2021 admissions cycle. The university considers a range of factors in its admissions decisions, including grades, standardized test scores, extracurricular activities, and essays. In recent years, the university has placed more emphasis on holistic admissions, taking into account factors such as socioeconomic background and diversity.

Tuition and Financial Aid:

UMD’s tuition and fees vary depending on a student’s residency status and program of study. For the 2021-2022 academic year, in-state tuition and fees were $10,779 per semester, while out-of-state tuition and fees were $34,934 per semester. However, the university offers a range of financial aid and scholarship options to help make education more affordable

UMD has a robust financial aid program, with around 64% of undergraduate students receiving some form of financial aid. The university offers a range of grants, scholarships, loans, and work-study programs to help students cover the cost of tuition and living expenses. Students can apply for financial aid by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and the Maryland State Financial Aid Application.

UMD also has a strong commitment to accessibility and affordability. The university has implemented a range of initiatives to help reduce the cost of attendance for low-income students, including the Maryland Promise Program, which provides free tuition and fees for eligible students from families with an annual income below $75,000.

Diversity and Inclusion:

UMD is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive campus community. The university has implemented a range of initiatives to promote diversity and equity, including the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, which oversees programs and services that support underrepresented students, faculty, and staff.

UMD also has a range of diversity and inclusion initiatives, such as the Diversity Advisory Council, which brings together students, faculty, and staff to advise the university on issues related to diversity and inclusion. The university also has several student-led organizations and affinity groups that promote diversity and inclusivity on campus.

Sustainability:

UMD has a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The university has implemented a range of initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable practices, including the installation of solar panels and the implementation of green building standards.

The university also has a robust sustainability education program, with a range of courses and research programs focused on environmental issues. UMD is also home to several sustainability-focused centers and institutes, such as the Center for Global Sustainability and the Environmental Finance Center.

Conclusion:

The University of Maryland, College Park, is a world-class institution that is known for its strong academic programs, cutting-edge research, and vibrant campus life. With a commitment to accessibility, diversity, and sustainability, UMD is a leader in higher education and a great place to pursue a degree. Whether you’re interested in engineering, business, or the arts, UMD has something to offer for every student.