Accredited Degree Programs, Scholarships and Resources for Top Maryland Schools
Maryland may be small, but it has a lot to offer prospective college students. Maryland is home to over 50 colleges, 30 public and 23 private. Maryland's state government has also been part of growing nationwide legislation aimed at providing no-cost college education to its residents. But while details and outcomes are still unclear, prospective Maryland college students are still responsible for researching which colleges provide the highest-quality, most affordable education online themselves.
We've outlined the details on the best online colleges in Maryland, and answered tough questions on tuition costs, financial aid and transfer credits for Maryland students below.
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How Can I Find Which Online Colleges Offer the Degree I'm Looking for in Maryland?
Several accredited colleges and universities in Maryland offer online programs. Students can enroll in a single online course or earn their entire degree remotely. The state government maintains list of Maryland institutions, including private and public four-year schools, community colleges, and regional higher education centers. Students can review each school's website to learn about online academic offerings.
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Best Online Colleges in Maryland
Maryland boasts more than 50 colleges and universities, with options for all types of learners. Many adult learners, veterans, and students attending college right after high school choose on-campus and online programs in the state. U.S. News & World Report ranks Maryland among the top 10 schools in the country with respect to four-year graduation rates and the educational attainment of residents 25 years and older.
This guide provides information about how Maryland's educational programs and policies can help you reach your academic goals. The following sections explore online schools and colleges in Maryland, tuition rates and financial assistance, accreditation, and adult education.
These rankings include
#1 Online Schools and Colleges in Maryland
Towson University
Towson, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
The online learning platform allows enrollees to complete group projects, attend virtual office hours, and develop a supportive academic network. Learners complete general education requirements and advanced classes to prepare for roles in their field. Students discuss their plans with academic advisors to select electives that match their goals and interests. To gain professional experience, enrollees can pursue internships with organizations in their field.
While program costs vary, applicants can contact the financial aid office for information about specific fees and expenses. Eligible students may receive institutional scholarships and awards from external organizations.
#2 Online Schools and Colleges in Maryland
University of Maryland-College Park
College Park, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
University of Maryland-College Park’s online degrees provide enrollees with a competitive education, preparing them for their future careers. Learners based in any location can earn their degree through one of the school's four online programs. The flexibility of online learning allows current professionals to complete assignments around their work schedule.
Enrollees can participate in asynchronous class discussions and email professors for individual assistance. Degree-seekers can contribute to their field and enhance their resume by completing original research during their studies. Institutional resources, including career services and academic advising, help students succeed in their online program. Learners find support and guidance as they near the end of their program and have the option to participate in career workshops, mock interviews, and job fairs.
Technology fees typically cover the cost of online learning platforms. Applicants should speak with an admissions counselor to determine exact costs. Enrollees can submit the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal financial aid.
#3 Online Schools and Colleges in Maryland
McDaniel College
Westminster, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Among McDaniel College's academic offerings are excellent online programs that allow students to earn their degree remotely. Located in Westminster, the private school's offerings include seven remote programs. While pursuing their online degree, distance learners benefit from a supportive online community and academic resources.
The online learning platform allows enrollees to complete group projects, attend virtual office hours, and develop a supportive academic network. Along with completing field-specific classes, learners take general education courses to gain broad, transferable knowledge. Academic advisors help students customize their program based on their goals, while ensuring they remain on track to graduate. Options for gaining professional experience while enrolled include internships and research projects.
In preparing for the costs of a degree, applicants can speak with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. Potential funding options for students include federal financial aid, institutional awards, and private scholarships.
#4 Online Schools and Colleges in Maryland
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Johns Hopkins University offers top-ranked online degrees for learners seeking flexible study. Online students attending the Baltimore-based school can choose from 76 distance programs. The institution delivers its remote programming to 12,506 online enrollees.
The school offers a supportive community for online students. With virtual communication tools, such as videoconferencing and chat, participants can develop their network and connect with classmates. Many employers prefer candidates with professional experience, which students can gain by completing internships and research projects. Distance learners can communicate with academic advisors to select classes aligning with their goals. Career services such as mock interviews and resume assistance help enrollees prepare to secure a job after graduation.
The federal government provides funding to support students with financial need. The financial aid office can help learners identify funding options to pursue, such as grants and scholarships. To defray the cost of their education, 67% of enrollees receive financial aid of some type, according to the institution's statistics.
#5 Online Schools and Colleges in Maryland
University of Maryland-Baltimore County
Baltimore, MD - 4 years
- Online + Campus
An excellent choice for online students, University of Maryland-Baltimore County offers high-quality remote academic programs. Delivering eight online programs in various fields, the school educates 1,602 online enrollees, in addition to those studying on campus in Baltimore. The flexibility of online programs allow many learners to work full time while earning their degree.
Upon enrolling, online students connect with a supportive online learning community. Completing field-specific experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and research projects, can help graduates impress prospective employers. The institution's career center provides enrollees with resources such as resume assistance and interest inventories. Career workshops provide opportunities for students to explore their job prospects before graduation.
Financial aid counselors provide insights for applicants exploring funding options and determining the best way to pay for school. Enrollees who have demonstrated academic excellence in their previous studies may qualify for merit-based awards. With 90% of the student body receiving financial aid, the school's programs can be very affordable.
How Much More Do College Grads in Maryland Make?
The table below illustrates how educational attainment impacts annual salaries nationwide. Professionals with higher educational levels tend to earn higher salaries. Throughout the country and in Maryland, learners often recoup their college investment through increased income.
| Less Than a High School Diploma | High School Diploma | Associate Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $28,756 | $37,960 | $44,824 |
Source: BLS
| Bachelor's Degree | Master's Degree | Doctoral Degree |
|---|---|---|
| $62,296 | $74,568 | $94,900 |
Source: BLS
Paying for Online College in Maryland: Tuition and Financial Aid
The average cost of tuition and fees for in-state students attending four-year public schools in Maryland is slightly above the national average. However, out-of-state learners at public institutions in Maryland pay an average of more than $1,000 less than the national average.
Average tuition for private schools in Maryland is more than $10,000 higher than the national average. Regardless of the type of school they attend, most learners need financial assistance to fund their college education. The following sections explore funding options for learners attending school in the Old Line State.
| In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| $9,289 | $24,353 | $9,037 (In-State) $25,657 (Out-of-State) |
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
| Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | National Average |
|---|---|---|
| $41,859 | N/A | $30,731 |
Source: National Center for Education Statistics
Cost Considerations for Online Students in Maryland
The figures above do not account for costs such as transportation and housing. Prospective students should factor in all education-related expenses when budgeting for college. Below are some cost considerations for learners attending online schools and colleges in Maryland.
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Technology Fee
Many online schools and colleges in Maryland charge distance learners a per-semester or per-course technology fee.
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Course Materials
In addition to technology fees, some schools charge a one-time fee to access digital books, lecture notes, and course materials for each class.
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Laboratory
Students enrolled in lab courses often need to visit campus as frequently as once a week, which requires costs associated with transportation and taking time off work.
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Exam Proctoring Fee
Students enrolled in lab courses often need to visit campus as frequently as once a week, which requires costs associated with transportation and taking time off work.
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Graduation Fee
Institutions often encourage online students to attend the graduation ceremony to commemorate their achievement. In addition to transportation costs, learners who attend must typically pay a graduation fee.
The Importance of Accreditation for Online Colleges and Universities in Maryland
Accreditation is a voluntary process through which institutions demonstrate academic quality. The U.S. Department of Education (ED) and the Commission for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) oversee accrediting agencies in the United States. Attending an accredited school ensures that employers and other institutions will recognize your degree. The following sections examine various types of accreditation.
Regional and National Accreditation
Degree-granting nonprofit institutions typically receive regional accreditation, which is the most prestigious type of institutional accreditation. Private and public two- and four-year schools can earn regional accreditation. For-profit and vocational schools often seek national accreditation.
Subject-Specific Accreditation
Subject-specific accrediting agencies evaluate departments and programs within certain fields. For example, the Accreditation Board of Engineering and Technology accredits programs in applied and natural science, engineering, computing, and engineering technology. The ED and CHEA oversee both institutional and programmatic accrediting agencies.
How to Know if Your School or Program is Accredited
Accredited schools typically display their accreditation status on their official website. A lack of accreditation information may indicate that a school does not hold proper accreditation. Learners can search the CHEA directory to verify the accreditation status of a school or program.
Online College and Adult Education in Maryland
Adult learners in Maryland can pursue a variety of educational opportunities, including online options, literacy courses, and vocational programs. The sections below include statistics related to adult education in the state, along with resources for adult learners.
By the Numbers: Adult Education in Maryland
Adult students comprise approximately 70% of community college students in Maryland. Many of these learners are working professionals who study part time.
In 2014, the University of Maryland Global Campus enrolled more online students than any other four-year school in the country.
The Maryland i-Pathways program is an online, self-paced program designed for adult students, incarcerated learners, and deployed Maryland residents.
Source: Maryland Association of Community Colleges, University of Maryland Global Campus, i-Pathways
Adult Education Programs for Maryland Students
- Adult Education and Literacy Services: This program from the Workforce Development and Adult Learning Division delivers instruction in areas including workplace preparation, integrated education and training, and family literacy.
- Maryland Adult Education Online: This website contains information for adults seeking their GED. The program helps learners create individualized learning plans, which are typically 15 months long. The program is free for Maryland residents.
- Transition Programs: Maryland residents can access assistance transitioning from school to the workplace, securing employment, and changing careers. Participants develop plans to reach academic and professional goals.
Online College Resources for Maryland Students
Maryland learners attending college for the first time or returning to school to complete a degree can access resources to further their academic goals. Students can locate online information on topics including financial aid, transfer agreements, and career planning. Below are five resources for learners attending online schools and colleges in Maryland.