What are some notable public universities in Maryland?

I'm curious about the public universities in Maryland and what they have to offer. Which ones have good reputations, especially for certain majors or extracurriculars? Any tips for out-of-state applicants?

There are several reputable public universities in Maryland, each with distinct areas of academic strength and a variety of extracurricular opportunities.

1. University of Maryland, College Park (UMD): As the flagship university in Maryland, UMD is known for its diverse selection of robust majors. It has particularly notable programs in business, engineering, and information science. UMD also offers a broad array of extracurriculars, including sports, arts, and academic clubs. The school's proximity to Washington D.C. provides opportunities for internships and networking.

2. Towson University: Situated in north Baltimore, Towson has a strong reputation for programs in education, business, and health-related fields like nursing and occupational therapy. Towson's extracurricular scene is varied, including several club sports, performing arts groups, and service organizations.

3. University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC): Known for its STEM-based programs with a special focus on computer science and engineering, UMBC also offers noteworthy programs in the humanities and social sciences. UMBC's chess team is nationally recognized, and the university offers a multitude of other student organizations and clubs as well.

As for tips for out-of-state applicants, one key point is to thoroughly research each school and tailor your application to show why you are a good fit for that particular institution. This could mean highlighting how your academic interests align with programs the school is known for, or how you plan to get involved in campus activities that align with your passions.

Second, make sure to consider the higher out-of-state tuition when planning your budget. You can use each university's net price calculator to get an estimate of the total annual cost. Although public universities usually have higher tuition for out-of-state students, some schools may offer scholarships to help offset this cost.

Finally, some public universities have higher admission standards for out-of-state students compared to in-state students, so be sure to understand these requirements and how they relate to your profile.