About Us

The University System of Maryland (USM) is the state of Maryland’s public higher education system. Benefiting students, as well as Maryland and its citizens, USM:

• Offers expansive access to affordable, high-quality educational opportunities;

• Performs groundbreaking research;

• Instills a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship;

• Promotes economic growth and workforce development;

• Provides vital services to communities and individuals;

• And partners with business, governments, nonprofits, and other organizations to improve quality of life.

The USM consists of three Research Universities, three Historically Black Institutions, four Traditional Comprehensive Institutions, two Regional Education Centers; one Specialized Research institution, and one “Virtual” Institution specializing in online and distance education, and a system office.

USM's programs and activities have a significant impact on the quality of life in Maryland, creating social and economic benefits for people throughout the state and beyond. USM is a recognized leader in many areas, including online learning, course redesign, and other components of academic innovation.

The mission of the University System of Maryland is to improve the quality of life for the people of Maryland by providing a comprehensive range of high quality, accessible, and affordable educational opportunities; engaging in research and scholarship that expand the boundaries of current knowledge; and providing knowledge-based programs and services that are responsive to the needs of the citizens of the state and the nation. USM fulfills its mission through the effective and efficient management of its resources and the focused missions and activities of each of its component institutions.

The vision of USM is to be a preeminent system of public higher education, admired around the world for its leadership in promoting and supporting education at all levels, fostering the discovery and dissemination of knowledge for the benefit of the state and nation, and instilling in all members of its community a respect for learning, diversity, and service to others.