University of Maryland Global Campus

UMGC's ROI score of 101 suggests a slightly positive financial return, with median earnings of $65,287 ten years after entry. The value depends on your specific career goals and the program of study.

The student experience is primarily online and flexible, designed for adult learners balancing education with other commitments. It lacks a traditional on-campus social and academic environment.

The 31.5% graduation rate is considerably lower than the average for many traditional four-year institutions, which may indicate challenges with student retention or program completion.

Yes, UMGC has a high affordability score of 90, with relatively low in-state tuition of $8,136 and a strong focus on accessible online education.

The median earnings 10 years after entry are $65,287, which is a moderate figure that contributes to its slightly positive ROI.

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) does not publish a traditional acceptance rate, as its admissions process is designed to be accessible to a broad range of students, particularly adult learners and those with prior college credits or military experience. The focus is less on highly selective admissions and more on ensuring students meet basic academic requirements and are prepared for college-level work. Generally, if you have a high school diploma or GED, or have completed a significant amount of college credit, you are likely to be admitted. For undergraduate programs, a minimum GPA might be considered if you have prior college coursework, but the emphasis is on providing opportunities. For graduate programs, a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution is required, often with a minimum GPA (e.g., 2.5 or 3.0) and potentially GRE/GMAT waivers depending on experience. The key to getting in is demonstrating readiness to succeed in a rigorous academic environment, often through prior academic performance or professional experience. UMGC encourages prospective students to connect with admissions counselors who can guide them through the application process and assess their eligibility based on their individual circumstances.

Yes, University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is generally worth the money, especially for its target demographic of working adults, military personnel, and those seeking career advancement. The median 10-year earnings of $65,287, coupled with a median debt of $21,000, result in a strong Return on Investment (ROI) score of 101. This indicates that graduates are earning significantly more than their debt burden within a reasonable timeframe. For an in-state student paying $8,136 annually, a four-year degree would cost approximately $32,544. If a student graduates with $21,000 in debt, this is a manageable amount relative to the median salary. The value is particularly high for active-duty military members who may have tuition assistance or benefits that drastically reduce out-of-pocket expenses. UMGC's flexible, online format allows students to continue working while studying, minimizing lost income. While the graduation rate is a consideration, for those who complete their programs, the career outcomes and earning potential in sectors like government, cybersecurity, and IT are robust, making it a financially sound investment for career-focused individuals.

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) excels in majors that align with the demands of the government, defense, and technology sectors, reflecting its strong regional ties and student demographics. Top-tier majors often include: Cybersecurity, where UMGC offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs designed to meet industry needs and prepare students for high-demand roles in protecting digital assets. Information Technology (IT) and Computer Science programs are also highly regarded, covering areas like software development, network administration, and data analytics. Business Administration and Management programs are popular, providing foundational knowledge and specialized tracks in areas like project management and human resources, which are crucial in corporate and government settings. Public Safety and Homeland Security degrees are particularly relevant given the proximity to federal agencies and the strong presence of military and law enforcement professionals in the student body. Finally, Healthcare Administration programs cater to the growing healthcare sector, equipping students for management and operational roles. These programs often feature flexible online formats and faculty with real-world experience, making them excellent choices for career advancement.

Student life at University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is distinct from that of a traditional residential university, primarily catering to adult learners, working professionals, and active-duty military personnel. The experience is largely centered around its extensive online offerings, providing flexibility for students balancing education with careers and family responsibilities. While there are physical campuses and learning centers, the social and academic interactions often occur virtually through online discussion forums, group projects, and virtual office hours. UMGC fosters a sense of community through online student clubs, professional organizations, and virtual events. For those who can attend in person, there are opportunities for networking and engagement at the Adelphi campus and other satellite locations. The student body is diverse in age and background, bringing a wealth of real-world experience to the virtual classroom. While traditional campus activities like sports or large social gatherings are limited, the focus is on professional development, networking, and peer-to-peer learning within a supportive, career-oriented environment.

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) offers various forms of financial aid to help students manage the cost of their education. This includes federal financial aid (grants like the Pell Grant, federal student loans), state aid (Maryland residents may qualify for specific state grants), and institutional aid (scholarships offered directly by UMGC). UMGC also has specific financial aid programs and tuition assistance for active-duty military members, reservists, and veterans, leveraging federal benefits like the GI Bill and Tuition Assistance. Scholarships are available for both undergraduate and graduate students, often based on academic merit, specific fields of study, or financial need. The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is the primary application for most federal and state aid. UMGC's financial aid office works with students to explore all available options, including payment plans. While specific dollar amounts vary greatly depending on individual circumstances, eligibility, and program of study, UMGC is committed to making education accessible, particularly for its core demographic.

Graduates from University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) can expect a median salary of approximately $65,287 ten years after graduation, according to available data. However, actual salaries can vary significantly based on the chosen major, industry, location, and years of experience. For instance, alumni in high-demand fields like Cybersecurity and Information Technology, particularly those working in the D.C. metropolitan area for government contractors or federal agencies, often report higher starting salaries and faster career progression. Graduates with degrees in Business Administration or Management might see salaries ranging from $50,000 to $80,000+ depending on their role and company. Those in Public Safety or Healthcare Administration roles may find positions with starting salaries in the $45,000-$70,000 range, with potential for growth. It's important to note that UMGC's median earnings data reflects a 10-year outlook, suggesting that salaries increase substantially with experience and career advancement. Many alumni leverage their UMGC degrees to move into management or senior-level positions, further boosting their earning potential beyond the initial median.

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is primarily an online university and does not offer traditional on-campus housing or dormitories for the vast majority of its students. Its model is designed for adult learners, working professionals, and military members who typically maintain their own residences and seek flexible, remote learning options. While UMGC does have a physical campus in Adelphi, Maryland, and several learning centers, these facilities are focused on classrooms, administrative offices, and student support services, not student housing. Therefore, prospective students should not expect a typical college dorm experience. Students seeking housing would need to arrange it independently in the local Adelphi/D.C. metropolitan area if they wish to be physically near a campus or learning center. The university's infrastructure and student services are built around supporting a distributed, online student body rather than a residential one.

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is not primarily known as a research-intensive institution in the traditional sense, like large R1 universities. Its mission focuses more on providing accessible, career-oriented education to adult learners and military personnel. Consequently, undergraduate research opportunities are less emphasized compared to institutions with strong graduate programs and dedicated research facilities. However, UMGC does offer opportunities for students to engage in applied research, particularly at the graduate level. Many master's and doctoral programs incorporate research projects, theses, or capstone projects where students can investigate topics relevant to their fields, often drawing on their professional experience. Faculty at UMGC are encouraged to engage in scholarly activities, and some research does occur, often focused on areas pertinent to adult learning, distance education, cybersecurity, and public administration. Students interested in research should explore graduate programs or specific faculty interests within their chosen discipline.

University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is often compared to other large, primarily online or adult-serving institutions like Western Governors University (WGU), Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), and University of Phoenix. UMGC's key differentiator is its strong connection to the D.C. metropolitan area's government and defense sectors, offering a distinct advantage for career placement in these fields. While WGU is known for its competency-based model and IT/healthcare focus, UMGC offers more traditional course structures and a broader range of business and public service programs. SNHU also offers extensive online programs with a strong focus on student support and affordability. Compared to the University of Phoenix, UMGC generally holds a stronger reputation, particularly due to its affiliation with the University System of Maryland and its focus on specific high-demand career paths. UMGC's median earnings are competitive, and its ROI is solid, especially for in-state students and military personnel. Its primary advantage lies in its geographic and industry-specific networking opportunities within the federal ecosystem.

Employers generally view degrees from University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) favorably, particularly within the government, defense contracting, and cybersecurity industries, largely due to its strong reputation and strategic location near Washington D.C. Many federal agencies and major defense contractors like Northrop Grumman, Booz Allen Hamilton, and Leidos actively recruit UMGC graduates, recognizing the practical skills and relevant knowledge gained through its programs. The university's focus on adult learners and military personnel means that many graduates bring significant real-world experience, which employers value highly. UMGC's affiliation with the University System of Maryland also lends credibility to its degrees. While it may not carry the same brand prestige as highly selective residential universities in all sectors, its specific strengths in areas like cybersecurity, IT management, and public administration make its graduates highly sought after in those fields. Employers appreciate the flexibility and career-focused nature of UMGC's programs, understanding that graduates are often adept at balancing work and study.