University of Maryland College Park

The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) is a top-ranked public research university and the flagship institution of the University System of Maryland. Located near Washington, D.C., UMD offers a vibrant academic environment with a strong focus on research, innovation, and community engagement.

Academics

UMD offers over 200 degree-granting programs across its eleven schools and colleges, including 113 undergraduate majors, 107 master's programs, and 83 doctoral programs. The university is particularly renowned for its A. James Clark School of Engineering, which excels in areas like aerospace, mechanical, and electrical and computer engineering. Other highly respected programs include Computer Science, the Robert H. Smith School of Business (with strong finance, accounting, and marketing specializations), Public Policy, and Biological Sciences. UMD is classified among "R1: Doctoral Universities – very high research activity" and faculty members often receive funding from federal agencies such as NASA and the National Institutes of Health.

International Students

UMD is home to approximately 3,600 international students from over 150 countries, pursuing more than 100 different majors. International Student and Scholar Services (ISSS) provides extensive support, including immigration advising, orientation programs, and employment seminars. ISSS also offers programs like the English Conversation Partners Program and International Coffee Hour to aid cultural integration. While specific diversity statistics for international students vary, UMD generally maintains a diverse student body, with international students contributing to a globally rich campus community.

Campus & Location

Located in College Park, Maryland, UMD benefits from its close proximity to Washington, D.C., offering students unique internship, cultural, and career opportunities. The campus spans 1,340 acres and features state-of-the-art facilities, including modern libraries and research centers. Transportation is convenient with the College Park-University of Maryland Metro station providing access to downtown D.C., and a free shuttle service (Shuttle-UM) available for the university community. The city of College Park itself offers a blend of suburban charm and urban accessibility.

Career Outcomes

University of Maryland graduates demonstrate strong career outcomes, with approximately 94% of bachelor's degree graduates and 81.8% of MBA graduates securing employment within a few months of graduation. The university's career services and industry connections are robust, with graduates finding opportunities at major companies such as Accenture, Amazon, Deloitte, Google, IBM, and Microsoft. UMD also fosters a strong startup culture, with resources like the Maryland Technology Enterprise Institute (Mtech) and Startup Shell supporting student and faculty entrepreneurs. International skills gained through global experiences, such as study abroad programs, have also been shown to positively impact career trajectories and starting salaries.