overview

UMBC is a public research university in Maryland, established in 1966. It is renowned for innovation, interdisciplinary education, and a diverse student body. Offering over 55 undergraduate and 70 graduate programs, UMBC excels in STEM, social sciences, humanities, and research, with annual funding exceeding $84 million. The campus supports about 14,000 students, emphasizing inclusivity and global representation.

Key highlights include strong partnerships with NASA and NIH, national recognition for teaching and innovation, and a vibrant campus life with diverse housing options. UMBC prepares students for success in various fields, fostering creativity and research.

For details, visit umbc.edu.

UMBC provides a wide range of academic resources to support student success, foster research, and promote innovative learning.

Libraries and Study Spaces:

Albin O. Kuhn Library & Gallery:
- Houses extensive print and digital collections.
- Offers collaborative and individual study spaces.
- Includes access to specialized archives and art galleries.
- Services include research assistance, interlibrary loan, and workshops.

Technology and Learning Support:

Technology Support Center (TSC):
- Provides assistance with UMBC systems, software, and hardware issues.
Virtual Labs and Computing Services:
- Access to specialized software and resources for coursework and research.
Online Learning Platforms:
- Blackboard and other tools for hybrid and online learning.

Research Facilities:

Research Centers and Labs:
- Centers of excellence in cybersecurity, space science, and environmental studies.
- State-of-the-art labs supporting interdisciplinary research.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities:
- Programs and mentorship to engage students in cutting-edge research.

Academic Advising and Support:

Advising Services:
- Academic advisors for personalized guidance on courses, majors, and career planning.
Tutoring and Academic Success Center:
- Offers tutoring, study skills workshops, and peer learning programs.
Writing Center:
- Support for academic writing, including essays, research papers, and resumes.

Special Programs:

Meyerhoff Scholars Program:
- Renowned initiative supporting diversity in STEM fields.
Honors College:
- Offers a rigorous academic curriculum and enrichment opportunities.

Accessibility and Inclusion:

Office of Student Disability Services:
- Ensures equal access to resources and accommodations for students with disabilities.
Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives:
- Programs to support an inclusive learning environment for all students.

UMBC’s comprehensive academic resources provide students with the tools to succeed academically, engage in research, and prepare for future careers. For more details, visit UMBC Academic Resources.

UMBC is primarily based in Catonsville, Maryland, but its global presence and collaborative efforts extend beyond its main campus. These partnerships and initiatives provide students and researchers opportunities to engage in international and interdisciplinary work.

Main Campus:

Location: Catonsville, Maryland, near Baltimore.
Focus: Research, innovation, and diverse undergraduate and graduate education in STEM, arts, and social sciences.

Collaborative Global Programs:

Shady Grove Campus:
- Located in Rockville, Maryland, it extends UMBC’s programs in collaboration with other University System of Maryland institutions.
- Offers undergraduate and graduate degrees, focusing on professional development and regional industry needs.
UMBC Cybersecurity Centers:
- Renowned for programs and research in cybersecurity.
- Partnerships with global organizations and agencies enhance students' learning experiences and research opportunities.
International Partnerships:
- Collaborations with universities and research institutions worldwide.
- Opportunities for exchange programs, joint research initiatives, and global internships.

Virtual and Online Learning Centers:

UMBC extends its reach globally through robust online and hybrid learning programs, allowing international students to access world-class education remotely.

Research and Innovation Hubs:

Centers of Excellence:
- Joint Center for Earth Systems Technology
- Center for Space Sciences and Technology
These hubs foster collaboration with NASA, NOAA, and other international agencies.

Study Abroad Opportunities:

Offers diverse programs for students to study in countries around the globe.
Provides access to international research and cultural exchange.

UMBC’s global campuses and initiatives aim to connect its community with international resources and opportunities for comprehensive, impactful learning and research. For more details, visit UMBC Global Opportunities.

UMBC is home to several institutes and research centers that foster innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and impactful research. These facilities provide students and faculty with opportunities to engage in cutting-edge projects across various disciplines.

Key Institutes and Centers:

The Center for Cybersecurity:
- Focuses on advanced research in cybersecurity and information systems.
- Provides students with hands-on experience in securing digital systems.
The Joint Center for Earth Systems Technology (JCET):
- A partnership with NASA to advance atmospheric and earth sciences.
- Offers research opportunities for students in climate studies and remote sensing.
The Center for Urban Environmental Research and Education (CUERE):
- Studies urban environments and sustainability.
- Engages in projects that address urban water management and ecological conservation.
The Institute for Global Engagement (IGE):
- Promotes international partnerships and global learning opportunities.
- Supports study abroad programs and intercultural initiatives.
The Meyerhoff Scholars Program:
- A nationally recognized initiative supporting underrepresented groups in STEM.
- Provides scholarships and mentoring to students pursuing science and engineering careers.
The Imaging Research Center:
- Advances research in imaging, visualization, and simulation technologies.
- Supports applications in medicine, education, and engineering.

For more details, visit UMBC Research Centers.

UMBC is renowned for fostering strong ties with industry leaders, government agencies, and non-profit organizations, ensuring that students gain real-world experience and career opportunities. These partnerships enhance the university's mission to bridge academia and industry through innovation, research, and community engagement.

Key Industry Connections and Partnerships:

Research Collaborations:
- Partnerships with leading organizations such as NASA, the National Security Agency (NSA), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and private sector companies.
- Research centers like the Joint Center for Earth Systems Technology (JCET) and the Center for Cybersecurity provide collaborative platforms for groundbreaking research.
Internships and Co-Op Programs:
- UMBC students have access to internships and co-op opportunities with major employers, including Northrop Grumman, Lockheed Martin, and Google.
- The university’s Career Center facilitates connections between students and industry partners.
bwtech@UMBC Research and Technology Park:
- A 71-acre research park located on campus, housing over 130 technology and life science companies.
- Provides opportunities for students to engage in internships, projects, and employment with startups and established firms.
Cybersecurity and IT Innovation:
- Recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education by the NSA and DHS.
- UMBC collaborates with federal agencies and private companies on cybersecurity research and workforce development.
Alumni Network and Mentorship:
- UMBC’s alumni network includes leaders in tech, healthcare, public policy, and more, providing mentorship and career support for current students.
- Alumni events and networking opportunities help students build industry connections.
Community Engagement:
- Strong partnerships with local and regional organizations, contributing to economic development in Maryland.
- UMBC works closely with community organizations to address urban challenges and promote sustainability.

Support for Students:

Career Services: The Career Center offers workshops, career fairs, and one-on-one advising to connect students with potential employers.
Industry-Focused Events: Annual events like hackathons, career expos, and industry panels provide direct engagement with professionals.

UMBC’s robust industry connections position its students and faculty at the forefront of innovation, ensuring graduates are well-prepared to excel in competitive global markets.

For more details, visit UMBC Industry Partnerships.

UMBC offers a variety of financial aid options to help students manage the cost of their education, including scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs. The Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships is committed to providing resources and guidance to make education affordable and accessible.

Types of Financial Aid:

Scholarships:
- Merit-Based Scholarships:
  - Awarded to incoming freshmen and transfer students based on academic performance.
  - Examples include the UMBC Presidential Scholarship and the Transfer Academic Scholarship.
- Departmental Scholarships:
  - Offered by specific academic programs or departments.
  - Students should check with their department for availability and criteria.
- Private Scholarships:
  - External scholarships from organizations, foundations, or corporations.
Grants:
- Federal Pell Grant:
  - Need-based grant for undergraduate students.
- Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG):
  - For undergraduate students with exceptional financial need.
- Maryland State Grants and Scholarships:
  - Includes programs like the Guaranteed Access Grant and the Educational Assistance Grant.
Loans:
- Federal Direct Loans:
  - Subsidized and unsubsidized loans available to eligible students.
- Parent PLUS Loans:
  - Loans for parents of dependent undergraduate students.
- Private Loans:
  - Available through private lenders.
Work-Study Programs:
- Provides part-time job opportunities for students with financial need.
- Jobs are available on-campus or with approved off-campus employers.
Emergency Financial Assistance:
- Short-term financial assistance for students facing unexpected financial hardships.

How to Apply for Financial Aid:

Complete the FAFSA:

Submit the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) at FAFSA.gov.

UMBC’s school code: 002105.

Priority deadline: March 1.
Submit Additional Documents:
- Students may be required to provide verification documents or supplementary forms.
Review Financial Aid Offer:
- Award notifications are sent through the myUMBC portal.
Explore Scholarships:
- Visit UMBC’s Scholarship Retriever Portal to search and apply for available scholarships.

Contact Information:

Office of Financial Aid and Scholarships:
- Email: finaid@umbc.edu
- Phone: (410) 455-2387
- Location: Library Pondside Office Complex

UMBC’s financial aid resources ensure that students from diverse economic backgrounds can access high-quality education. For more details, visit the Financial Aid Office.