University of Meryland, Baltimore County, Maryland

Introduction | Global Rank | US Rank | State Rank | History | Popular Courses & Fees | Specialty | Research | Campus Life | Alumni Network | Academic Requirements

The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) is a distinguished public research university located in Catonsville, Maryland, approximately 15 minutes from downtown Baltimore. Established in 1966, UMBC has evolved into a leading institution known for its innovative teaching, rigorous research, and commitment to diversity and inclusion. The university offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines, including engineering, sciences, social sciences, humanities, and the arts.

Global, National, and State Rankings:

• Global Rank: UMBC is ranked among the top 4% of universities worldwide.
• National Rank: In the 2025 U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings, UMBC is tied at #144 among National Universities.
• State Rank: UMBC is ranked #3 among public universities in Maryland.

History:

UMBC was established in 1966 as part of the University System of Maryland, becoming the first public college in Maryland to be inclusive of all races. Over the decades, the university has grown significantly, developing a strong reputation in natural sciences, engineering, liberal arts, and social sciences. UMBC’s commitment to inclusivity and academic excellence has been a cornerstone of its development.

Popular Courses and Fees:

UMBC offers over 100 majors, minors, and certificate programs. Some of the most popular undergraduate majors include:

• Computer and Information Sciences
• Biological Sciences
• Psychology
• Visual and Performing Arts
• Social Sciences

For the academic year 2023–2024, undergraduate tuition and fees are $13,256 for Maryland residents and $31,225 for out-of-state students.

Specialty:

UMBC is particularly well-regarded for its science and engineering programs. The university is home to several research centers and institutes focusing on areas such as cybersecurity, environmental sciences, and biotechnology. Notably, UMBC is recognized as the nation’s #1 producer of Black undergraduates who go on to earn Ph.D.s in natural sciences and engineering.

Research:

Classified as a Doctoral University with Very High Research Activity (R1), UMBC ranks among the top 100 public U.S. institutions in federal research and development expenditures. The university’s research themes focus on environmental sciences, health and life sciences, data sciences and national security, health equity and policy studies, and public humanities and the arts.

Campus Life:

UMBC’s suburban campus spans 500 acres and offers a vibrant community with over 260 student organizations, 17 NCAA Division I athletic teams, and numerous cultural events throughout the year. The university emphasizes a collaborative culture that challenges and supports students to achieve their goals.

Alumni Network:

UMBC alumni have achieved significant accomplishments across various fields. Notable alumni include:

• Dr. Kizzmekia Corbett ’08, M16: Assistant Professor at Harvard University and lead inventor of the Moderna COVID-19 vaccine.
• James Clements ’85: President of Clemson University.
• Ralph Semmel ’92: Director of Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab.
• Alicia Wilson ’04: Managing Director and Global Head of Philanthropy for the North America Region at JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Academic Requirements:

UMBC has an acceptance rate of approximately 74%. The middle 50% range for SAT scores of admitted students is 1220–1410, and for the ACT, it’s 23–30. The average high school GPA of admitted students is around 3.9. The application deadline for priority admission is February 1.

UMBC’s commitment to inclusive excellence, innovative research, and a supportive community makes it a compelling choice for students seeking a comprehensive and enriching educational experience.