University of Maryland Baltimore
The Vibe Check
The campus feels like a focused, urban professional hub where students are intensely driven, often wearing scrubs and carrying heavy textbooks. There's a palpable energy centered around healthcare and research, with a serious, collaborative atmosphere rather than a traditional undergrad social scene. It feels more like a workplace for future leaders in medicine and science than a typical college quad.
Academics & Majors
UMBC is a national powerhouse in undergraduate science and humanities research, offering exceptional opportunities for hands-on learning. The Honors College provides a rigorous, seminar-style education that fosters close relationships with renowned faculty. Students benefit from small class sizes and direct access to cutting-edge labs, especially in STEM fields.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Baltimore
Students often explore Baltimore's vibrant neighborhoods like Fells Point for live music and Canton for bars and restaurants. On weekends, you'll find groups visiting the Inner Harbor, cheering on the Ravens or Orioles, or discovering the city's renowned food scene. Campus events, club activities, and study groups are also central to student social life.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($88,174):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
UMBC's campus is generally considered safe with its own well-equipped police force and well-lit pathways. The surrounding Baltimore area requires standard urban awareness, but the campus itself is a relatively calm enclave.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ World-class undergraduate research opportunities in STEM
- ✓ Highly ranked Honors College for a liberal arts-focused education
- ✓ Strong career outcomes and connections to the Baltimore/Washington, D.C. corridor
- ✓ Diverse and intellectually curious student body
Cons
- ✗ Campus social life can feel quieter than a large state university
- ✗ Urban location requires navigating city life and transportation
- ✗ Parking on campus can be challenging and expensive
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
UMBC is primarily known for its exceptional strength in undergraduate research, particularly in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). It is also renowned for its Honors College, which offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary liberal arts education. The university has a strong reputation for preparing students for top graduate programs and professional schools.
Yes, UMBC is a selective public university. While specific acceptance rates can vary, it typically looks for strong academic records. The middle 50% of admitted students often have SAT scores between 1260-1410 and ACT scores between 27-32, with a high school GPA of 3.9 or higher on a 4.0 scale. A rigorous high school curriculum, including AP or IB courses, is highly recommended.
Campus life is academically focused with a strong sense of community. Students are highly engaged in research, student government, and over 250 clubs and organizations. The atmosphere is collaborative rather than competitive, and while there are social events, the vibe is quieter than a typical large state school, with many students commuting or living off-campus in the surrounding Baltimore area.
Absolutely, especially for in-state students pursuing STEM or health professions. The 10-year median earnings of $88,174 and the university's strong reputation with employers and graduate schools provide an excellent return on investment. The combination of academic prestige, research opportunities, and career outcomes often outweighs the cost for graduates.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded 1807
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 1,199
- Zip Code 21201
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With a 10-year median earnings of over $88,000, the return on investment for a UMBC degree is strong, especially in its top-ranked health and STEM programs. The 25.3% Pell Grant rate indicates a commitment to accessibility for students from diverse economic backgrounds. For in-state students, the combination of top-tier academics and relatively affordable tuition makes it an exceptional value.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.