POPULATION (2021): 6.2 million
CAPITAL: Annapolis
LARGEST PUBLIC UNIVERSITY IN MARYLAND: University of Maryland
LARGEST PRIVATE UNIVERSITY IN MARYLAND: Johns Hopkins University
Though technically a southern state if you still want to use the Mason-Dixon line as a measuring point, Maryland is pretty far north on the map, and its major cities of Baltimore and Annapolis are much closer to New York City and Philadelphia than they are to Atlanta or the Gulf of Mexico.
The state is relatively small, at least compared to other “southern” states, but is still densely populated and offers residents a wide array of different vibes, depending on where they choose to live. This is also alluring to many college students, as there is definitely something for everyone in Maryland. It’s close to government-related economic drivers for the business folk, it has a lot of Atlantic Ocean coastline for beach lovers, it has a couple of booming cities for the nightlife fans, and the western half of the state is woodlands and rolling hills for the hikers and outdoor explorers.
Universities in Maryland – 4-Year Colleges and Online
The University of Maryland, a public university with a massive online enrollment, is the largest college in the state by enrollment, with more than 40,000 students on campus, and on the private side, Baltimore’s Johns Hopkins University takes the cake for the highest enrollment. Here is a look at all of the colleges strewn across the Free State.
Public Universities in Maryland
In addition to the massive numbers of students that attend the University of Maryland both on campus and online, several other state-funded schools offer 4-year degrees in Maryland, including these HBCUs:
- Morgan State University (Baltimore)
- Bowie State University (Bowie)
- University of Maryland Eastern Shore
- Coppin State University
Other public, 4-year universities, and colleges located in Maryland are:
- Towson University
- Salisbury University
- University of Baltimore
- St. Mary’s College
Additionally, the United States Naval Academy is also located in Maryland, though the Annapolis school is a very unique college experience, with graduates committing to serving in the military following their studies.
Private Universities in Maryland
Right next to Washington, D.C., it’s no surprise that Maryland has some private universities as well. Johns Hopkins is a renowned research university located in Baltimore, but Loyola Maryland, Stevenson University, McDaniel College, Goucher College, Mount St. Mary’s, and Hood College all offer 4-year programs to students in Maryland. Baltimore has a few other schools that will be mentioned below in the city explorer section.
Community Colleges in Maryland
Maryland helps fund 16 different community colleges, some of which have multiple campuses. These schools offer students the opportunity to get some affordable classes under their proverbial belts before deciding to enter the workforce or continue their education at a 4-year university.
Prominent Online Colleges in Maryland
The University of Maryland’s Global Campus is a renowned online college, with students from all over the globe taking classes toward a U of M degree. Several other colleges in the state have prominent online programs, as well, most of which grew to help students during the pandemic.
Universities in Baltimore, MD
With more than half a million people inside the city limits, Baltimore is a big, big city and brings with it a lot of big-city fun. For students who enjoy the nightlife, one of these Baltimore universities may suit you best in the state of Maryland.
- Notre Dame University of Maryland
- Maryland Institute College of Art
- Loyola University
- Johns Hopkins University
- University of Maryland – Baltimore (public)
Get to Know Maryland
Its northeast location means residents and students in Maryland have quick access to a lot of things outside of the state, too, with big cities like Washington D.C., Philadelphia, Boston, and NYC all accessible for a weekend trip, but staying in the state offers a lot of fun, too!
Baltimore is a rough around the edges city, and most Maryland residents have a nice mix of grit and hospitality.
Maryland residents love their beaches, and most will tell you that Ocean City is the best place to spend a weekend on the Atlantic Ocean. Inland, camping, waterways, historic battlefields, and a lot of nature are ripe for exploration for anyone who goes to college in Maryland.