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Higher Education in Maryland

Maryland's colleges and universities are a popular choice among international students—and for great reasons.
Maryland lies at the heart of cultural, recreational, and educational activities on the Atlantic Coast. The term "variety" captures the essence of our unique state, from Maryland's diverse geography to its prosperous economy to its distinct communities.
"Innovation is key. And the foundation of innovation is education.  It’s one of the most important investments we make together.  Now that’s why, over the last four years, every year, we have increased education funding,” says Maryland Governor Martin O’Malley, who, advocated for a record $462 million for tuition assistance and scholarships through FY2011.

"Our state's future competitiveness, our global strength, depends on our ability to invest in the skills of our people," O'Malley said. "To govern is to choose, and in our state we've chosen to make public education and affordable, accessible, quality higher education a priority.

"Danette G. Howard, the Interim Secretary of Higher Education, agrees.

"The Maryland Higher Education Commission is very dedicated to informing students and parents of the many financial aid opportunities which are available to them. However, affordability is just one part of the picture. Across the nation and in Maryland we are focusing on the completion agenda. Students should not only have the opportunity and access to colleges but also to attain the degrees they go there for in the first place…Students have benefited from the state’s commitment to higher education.”

And when it comes to Maryland's colleges and universities, there are 57 outstanding institutions from which to choose.

The University System of Maryland (USM) includes 13 distinctive and individual institutions: 11 degree-granting campuses and two research and service centers. The combined resources of these diverse institutions enhance the quality of higher education programs and services in Maryland. The 12th largest university system in the nation, USM serves 130,000 students at some 300 sites worldwide. Its institutions offer more than 600 academic programs leading to bachelor's, master's, doctoral, and professional degrees.

In addition, Maryland students also have the option of attending one of 28 excellent four-year independent colleges and universities. The world-renowned institution, Johns Hopkins University, was the first true research university in the United States. Another well-respected choice, Loyola College, is a Catholic institution in the Jesuit tradition.

Some students also choose from the abundance of Maryland's two-year public colleges. Ranging from community colleges to various specialty schools, these choices are perfect for those students who are either just beginning their educational journey to those enhancing their skills and knowledge. Students choose to study at community colleges before going on to complete a bachelor's degree from a four-year campus or to find excellent career training that leads directly to a good job. An example, Anne Arundel Community College, located in the state's capital, Annapolis, was named the number one community college in the nation.

Whatever choice is made, Maryland's wide variety of colleges and universities has a match for you. Collectively, Maryland's colleges and universities offer every kind of educational experience, whether for the traditional college student who goes directly to college from high school or for students who have already begun their careers and want to learn new skills. Maryland is proud that nearly one-third of its residents 25 and older have a bachelor's degree or higher, which is the fourth highest percentage among all states.

Maryland's economic diversity and educational vitality are complemented by a heritage and lifestyle that are rich, distinctive, and exciting. Maryland also benefits from being located near two dynamic cities, Washington DC and Baltimore. The combined economies of these two great cities represent the nation's fifth largest retail market and one of its wealthiest.

In their leisure, Maryland college students enjoy the marvels of the land and the wonders of the city. Students can explore the Chesapeake Bay by sailboat or hike through the quiet Appalachian mountain trails. They can attend a major league baseball game or experience a night at the symphony. Some choose to soak up the rays on Ocean City's sandy beaches or unravel the past at historic St. Mary's City. Others choose to tour Baltimore and enjoy the Preakness celebrations or stroll the Inner Harbor. In short, the breadth of America can be experienced within a 200-mile Maryland excursion. After graduation, students will find some of the nation's leading employers, who know that a graduate of one of Maryland's colleges is among the best educated in the country.

For international students looking for a U.S. college or university, Maryland has some of the best in the world ready to provide a world-class education.

Whatever your educational plans and goals may be, Maryland is the ideal state to cater to those educational needs. Maryland welcomes you with open arms and promises that you won't be disappointed. Come to learn, stay to earn!