University of Maryland-College Park

The University of Maryland-College Park is a public, 4-year school located in College Park, MD, about 5 miles from Washington, D.C. The University was founded in 1856 as the Maryland Agricultural College and became a land-grant college in 1864. In 1916, the school was renamed Maryland State College and reached university status in 1925. In 1988, after restructuring the state higher education system, the campus became the primary location for the University System of Maryland. The 1,250 acre campus features Georgian red brick architecture and showcases a large quad called McKeldin Mall which lies before McKeldin Library. The campus boasts many open green spaces and tree-lined pathways which seems to contradict its proximity to D.C. The campus was also used as the setting for several feature films. Notable alumni include Jim Henson, television producer Larry David and journalist Connie Chung.

Academic Programs

The University of Maryland-College Park is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education and offers Bachelor’s degrees, post-baccalaureate Certificates, Master’s Degrees, post-masters Certificates and Doctorates in over 125 fields. The University is comprised of 13 colleges and schools: A. James Clark School of Engineering; College of Agriculture and Natural Resources; College of Arts and Humanities; College of Behavioral and Social Sciences; College of Computer, Mathematical, and Natural Sciences; College of Education; College of Information Studies; Philip Merrill College of Journalism; Robert H. Smith School of Business; School of Architecture, Planning & Preservation; School of Public Health; School of Public Policy; and The Graduate School. Noted for Psychology, Public Health, Teacher Education, Music and Theatre, the largest programs on campus are in Social Sciences, Business and Engineering. “The mission of the University of Maryland, College Park is to provide excellent teaching, research, and service. The University educates students and advances knowledge in areas of importance to the State, the nation, and the world. The University is committed to being a preeminent national center for research and for graduate education, and the institution of choice for Maryland’s undergraduates of exceptional ability and promise.”

Student Life

There are over 27,000 undergraduate students enrolled in the University of Maryland-College Park, many of whom live on campus among the three dozen residence halls, apartments and living communities. The University sponsors over 100 clubs and student organizations, including club sports and intramurals. For the varsity athlete, the red, gold, black and white Terrapins, led by Testudo, field teams in 14 sports and participate in NCAA Division I competition. The annual calendar features traditions such as Service Day for local communities, Block Party & Info Fair showcasing various clubs and organizations and Faculty/Staff Appreciation Awards. The Mission Statement continues: “The University will continue to elevate the quality and accessibility of undergraduate education, with programs that are comprehensive and challenging, and that serve students well as a foundation for the workplace, advanced study, and a productive, fulfilling life… The University will engage fully in outreach and collaborative partnerships, extending its scholarly reach beyond the campus, promoting economic development, and improving quality of life in the College Park community and in the State.”