CULTURAL DIVERSITY

UMBC is renowned for its commitment to fostering an inclusive and culturally diverse community. With students, faculty, and staff from various cultural, ethnic, and national backgrounds, the university provides an environment where diversity is celebrated, respected, and integrated into the educational experience.

Key Highlights of Cultural Diversity at UMBC:

  1. Diverse Student Body:

    • Representation: Students from all 50 U.S. states and over 100 countries.
    • Ethnic Diversity: Approximately 58% of undergraduates identify as students of color.
    • International Presence: Around 7.7% of the student population consists of international students.

  2. Programs and Initiatives Promoting Diversity:

    • The Mosaic: Center for Cultural Diversity:
      • Offers workshops, events, and resources to promote intercultural understanding and collaboration.
      • Provides safe spaces for discussions on race, ethnicity, identity, and inclusion.
    • Interfaith Center:
      • Supports religious diversity by providing a space for worship, reflection, and dialogue among different faith groups.
    • Diversity Dialogues and Events:
      • Regular programming, such as International Education Week and cultural festivals, to celebrate and learn from diverse traditions.

  3. Cultural and Identity-Based Student Organizations:

    • Examples of Active Groups:
      • African Student Association
      • Asian Student Association
      • Latinx United
      • Muslim Student Association
      • LGBTQ+ groups and alliances
    • These organizations foster a sense of belonging and provide platforms for cultural expression.

  4. Curriculum and Academic Opportunities:

    • Courses in Cultural Studies:
      • Programs in Africana Studies, Gender and Women’s Studies, Asian Studies, and more.
    • Language Programs:
      • Offers courses in multiple languages, including Spanish, Chinese, and French.
    • Global Learning Opportunities:
      • Study abroad programs and international exchange initiatives encourage cross-cultural experiences.

  5. Support Services:

    • Office of Equity and Inclusion (OEI):
      • Oversees policies and practices to ensure fairness and equity on campus.
      • Provides training sessions on cultural competency and unconscious bias.
    • Resources for First-Generation and Underrepresented Students:
      • Scholarships, mentoring, and academic support tailored to the needs of diverse populations.

  6. Recognition and Awards:

    • UMBC is consistently ranked among the most diverse universities in the United States.
    • Recognized for its efforts in promoting equity and inclusion in higher education.

Why Cultural Diversity Matters at UMBC:

UMBC’s emphasis on cultural diversity enhances the academic experience by preparing students to thrive in a globalized world. The university fosters a community where all voices are valued, ensuring an enriching environment for personal growth and collaborative learning.

For more details, visit UMBC’s Diversity and Inclusion page.