The University of Maryland, College Park is the flagship public research university of the state, located just outside Washington, D.C. Its proximity to federal agencies and the nation's capital gives students unique access to internships and careers in government, cybersecurity, and policy, complementing strong programs in computer science and business.
Mascot: Terrapin
Notable Alumni
Jim Henson (creator of the Muppets)•Larry David (co-creator of Seinfeld)•Sergey Brin (co-founder of Google)
At a Glance
Cost
Published sticker prices for 2025-2026. Actual cost after aid varies.
Top Programs & National Ranking
Approximate national ranking based on departmental rankings, research output, and program reputation.
Highlights
Campus Experience
Maryland benefits enormously from its proximity to D.C. — internships, nightlife, and cultural events in the capital give Terps social options that most state schools can't offer. Greek life exists but doesn't dominate; football and basketball culture, especially the annual Midnight Mile tradition, are stronger social unifiers. The campus is remarkably diverse, which creates a more inclusive social atmosphere than many Big Ten peers.
McKeldin Mall provides a wide central green anchored by the library and chapel. The campus is well-maintained with mature trees, but the architecture is a standard mix of Georgian brick and modern additions.
Based on Niche reviews, Princeton Review surveys, student forums, and institutional data.
Safety
UMPD patrols campus with a safety escort program and the UMD Guardian personal safety app. Emergency phones are placed across campus.
College Park has one of the highest motor vehicle theft rates nationally. Safety varies significantly by neighborhood; the areas closer to campus are safer than surrounding blocks.
Based on Clery Act data, student surveys, and local crime statistics.
Plan Your Visit
Schedule: Daily Monday through Friday (reservation required)
Duration: 60-90 minutes for walking tour; about 2 hours for info session + tour combo
Student-led Terrapin Tours geared toward high school and transfer students. Maryland Info Session & Tours include admissions presentation + campus walk. Fall Open House (day-long event for juniors/seniors) in Fall 2026. Discover Maryland in February 2026 for sophomores/juniors.
Book a TourSelf-guided Terrapin Tour available for exploring iconic campus sights during off-hours or when guided tours are unavailable. Virtual tour also available online.
Tour ResourcesVisit late September through November for pleasant weather and game days at Maryland Stadium (Big Ten football atmosphere). Late March through April is also great when the azaleas bloom and the campus Mall is green. Maryland Day (usually late April) is a massive open house with access to labs, demos, and performances. Avoid January-February (cold and campus empties during winter break).
Reagan National Airport (DCA) is 17 miles away (~30-40 min by car). BWI is 27 miles (~35 min). The College Park-UMD Metro station (Green Line) connects directly to DCA via Metro. Visitor parking in campus garages (Mowatt Lane, Union Lane, Stadium Drive, Regents Drive) at $3/hr, $15/day max — pay via ParkMobile app.
Location
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