Graduate Schools in Maryland | MD Graduate Programs

Rich Civil War history. Savory soft shell blue crabs. The wild ponies of Assateague Island. Tasty craft brews. Stunning scenery in the Allegheny Mountains. Maryland rocks, hon!

Weaving through the Old Line State are the urban centers of culture-cool Baltimore and architecturally rich Annapolis, plus quaint rural towns dotted throughout the state, from Cumberland in the west to Germantown in the east. Add its proximity to Washington D.C., and going to grad school in Maryland could be an inspirational choice.

Popular Graduate Degree Programs in Maryland

ProgramInstitutionDegree Awarded
Graduate Certificate in Integrated Direct MarketingUniversity of Maryland Global CampusN/A
Public AdministrationCentral Michigan UniversityN/A
Physical TherapyUniversity of Maryland Eastern ShoreMPT
Social WorkUniversity of Maryland BaltimoreDSW
Adult and Continuing EducationCoppin State UniversityMSEd
Teaching/AcceleratedNotre Dame of Maryland UniversityMA
Doctor of Education – Nursing EducationNational UniversityDNP
Certificate in Advanced Agile LeadershipWake Forest UniversityN/A
Master of Human Resource ManagementThe University of Arizona Global CampusN/A
M.S. Nursing – Education (RN to MSN option)Western Governors UniversityMSN
M.B.A.Grand Canyon UniversityMBA
MS – Organizational LeadershipColorado State University GlobalN/A

Why Go to Grad School in Maryland

Maryland’s perfectly-placed position on the eastern seaboard – next to Washington D.C., lined by Atlantic beaches, and bordering the states of Virginia, West Virginia, Pennsylvania, and Delaware – makes it an appealing choice for grad students. An easy blend of rural mountain and beachside ambiance with cutting-edge and historically rich city culture unfolds. Students going to grad school in Maryland can pursue a variety of degrees in both private and public universities.

Baltimore is the cultural center of the state, home to a historically charming and singular mix of neighborhoods, a vibrant art scene, and some of the best seafood in the country. The city oozes a fantastic vibe, for sure, and it’s an intoxicating place for creative pursuits.

Annapolis is a bit more relaxed but still thrives with a lively downtown scene, especially its historic waterfront district. Suburban Germantown and Silver Spring offer a laidback lifestyle but are still influenced by nearby Washington D.C. and Baltimore. Head west for the easy charms of rural small towns, and easy access to outdoor pursuits and inspiration.

Fun Fact

Annapolis once served as the capital of the United States. It was also known as the “Athens of America” during the 17th century. Today it is heralded as the Sailing Capital of the World.

Living and Learning in Maryland

An intoxicating urban culture oozes from Baltimore and Annapolis, as well as nearby Washington D.C. Outside this energy in the eastern part of the state is the in the relaxing bucolic scenery of the western part of the state and its Appalachian Mountain sunsets.

Wherever you choose to study, Maryland a varying climate with hot summers and cool dry winters in the eastern part of the state, while the inland western part sees longer winters bookended with colorful autumns and springs.

Baltimore and the nearby airports in Virginia (which serve Washington D.C.) are the major gateways for air travel, while trains connect to Washington D.C., Philadelphia, and New York City. Bus lines provide service throughout the state, but a car is essential should you want to live outside the urban areas.

The Food Scene

Seafood. That one word covers much of the dining scene in the eastern part of the state. The state’s borders on Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean gives it easy access to its signature, mouth-watering Maryland Blue Crabs, soft shell crabs, oysters, and more. And you’ll find it everywhere from shacks to high-end eateries.

Baltimore expands its burgeoning culinary palate with standout Afghan, Greek, American, French, Italian, Korean, and other ethnic flavors. In the middle and western parts of the state you’ll come across such staples as Maryland Fried Chicken (smothered in a creamy gravy).

Try them all, and don’t forget the Old Bay – Maryland’s favorite spice mix of celery salt, bay leaf, mustard seed, black and red pepper, cinnamon, and ginger. And then there’s that craft brew scene…you’re in the right place.

City Lights

Sports, music, museums, historic landmarks, landmark neighborhood, and naval exhibits highlight city culture. Baltimore is the center of urban culture and you’ll find myriad activities, historic sites, performing arts, and events to take in. The smaller towns charm teem with history, from Civil War sites to Colonial America structures.

If sports is your thing, you’ll find both competitive college and professional teams – think NFL’s Baltimore Ravens, MLB’s Baltimore Orioles, and Preakness Stakes, one of the three races in horse racing’s annual Triple Crown, which is held in Baltimore County.

Outdoor Activities

Away from the urban centers, outdoor enthusiasts will find many recreational and relaxing opportunities to soak up the outdoors. Go boating in Chesapeake Bay and camp and swim at the Assateague Island National Seashore.

Head west to the Appalachian Mountains for hiking, biking, rock climbing, leaf-peeping, and more. The Appalachian Trail is truly a bucolic highlight.

Maryland is also home to more than 70 state parks including Point Lookout State Park, Catoctin Mountain Park, Rocky Gap State Park, Patapsco Valley State Park, and Sussquehanna State Park to the northeast.

Maryland Industries: The Key Players

Students going to grad school in Maryland can pursue a variety of post-graduate opportunities including government, medical research, fine arts, and engineering.

Baltimore is home to the prestigious John Hopkins Hospital network and also has opportunities in tourism and fine arts.

Major Maryland Cities

Graduate students will find much to explore in these urban centers, especially in Baltimore and Annapolis. Cool culture, historical attractions, easy access to the beach, and a palate-pleasing dining scene highlight the urban lifestyle here. Did we mention seafood? These four cities are worth checking out.

  • Baltimore
  • Annapolis
  • Germantown
  • Silver Spring

Baltimore

You’ve reached the promised land – Charm City, Maryland’s cool cultural center. Baltimore unfolds in a magnificent way – think hip restaurants and shops, cool bars and music venues, museums and galleries, and a performing arts scene rich in music and theater. It’s birthplace of such American icons as John Waters, Billie Holiday, and Babe Ruth. It’s also the home to NFL’s Baltimore Ravens and MLB’s Baltimore Orioles, who play in historic Camden Yards. Wander the city’s many cultural institutions like the American Visionary Arts Museum, Baltimore Museum of Arts, or the Walters Art Museum. Take in the sites with a daytime stroll along the Inner Harbor, or wander among the historic homes in Federal Hill – neighborhoods are part of the culture here, perfect for walking. The food scene is a palate-pleasing, savory selection that begins with seafood. Crabs, crab cakes, crab dip, etcetera. In between is a first class selection of restaurants of all sorts of ethnic flavors. Live music, bars of all kinds, and hip clubs contribute to the cutting-edge nightlife scene. And if you’re into festivals, the city keeps a busy calendar of art, film, book, and music festivals. Want to relax? City parks and green spaces can certainly inspire.

Annapolis

The unassuming capital of Maryland, Annapolis draws for its historic waterfront district buzzing as it is with restaurants, shops, and cafes. It’s fun just walking around this happening area, especially on the boardwalk, and at night you’ll find a lively bar scene to keep things happening. Historic attractions include the Hammond-Harwood House, the Maryland State House, and the art-filled St. Mary’s Catholic Church. Maritime fans will have much to discover at the Annapolis Maritime Museum and the United States Naval Academy. To be sure, its position on the water makes for fun weekend activities: take a 2-hour cruise on the Woodwind Schooner, a Pirate Cruise, or a guided kayak tour. Cultural events like the Annapolis Summer Garden Theatre and Navy Football round out the mix.

Germantown

The small city of Germantown lies about one hour northwest of Washington D.C. and one hour of west of Baltimore. It’s the third largest urban area in Maryland but it feels more like a cozy rural oasis than a city. Outdoor enthusiasts who want some urban comforts may find an easy home in Germantown. South Germantown Recreational Park, Little Bennett Regional Park, and Seneca Creek State Park are popular places to take in some hiking, camping, boating, and swimming. Foodies will find some savory barbeque and bakery options, and if you want to eat out or in, the Lancaster County Dutch Market is perfect groceries or a meal.

Silver Spring

Just 30 minutes north of Washington D.C., the quaint small city of Silver Spring offers a quiet retreat from the more bustling country capital and nearby Baltimore. Despite its size is has a lot to offer underneath its suburban charm. Interesting highlights include the National Capital Trolley Museum, the National Museum of Health and Medicine, and the Memorial Bust To the Homeless Mayor. Downtown Silver Spring is where the action is – a chill collection of restaurants, bars, and cafes give the town some subtle energy. For live music, the Fillmore Silver Spring hosts a variety of touring and local performers.

Fun Fact

Maryland produces the most blue crabs and soft clams in the nation. In Maryland, eat them like Marylanders do: douse them with copious amounts of Old Bay or Chesapeake Bay seasonings.

Explore Top Graduate Schools in Maryland

Prospective graduate students can find a variety of schools in Maryland. You may find one that suits not only your area of study but also one that has an environment that fits your lifestyle. The following are a few highlights:

Maryland offers an array of graduate school opportunities mostly centered in the Baltimore. However, Annapolis, Springfield, Germantown and other smaller communities offer myriad opportunities to pursue a graduate degree in Maryland. Here are some of the top options to study at the graduate level.

Health & Medicine

The Biomedical Science program at Hood College delivers extensive lab skill development and scientific knowledge to individuals currently working in the field, as well as those who hope to transition into a scientific field.

At John Hopkins University, the Master of Science in Nursing emphasizes leadership, global impact, quality and safety, evidence-based interprofessional education, and provides students with the necessary tools to advance into a leadership role or continue toward a doctoral degree.

The graduate progame in Health Systems Management at the University of Baltimore trains managers and administrators working in today’s health-care systems to deal with complex social, financial, political, economic and technological issues and to understand legal requirements, ethical considerations and policy frameworks.

Frostburg State University’s Master of Science degree in Human Performance is designed to prepare students who are interested in pursuing careers in corporate fitness, community health and wellness, and applied exercise science.

Fine Arts

At Johns Hopkins University, the Master of Arts in Museum Studies focuses examining new models of education, exhibition, and business strategies while exploring the role of the museum as an agent of social change.

The Graphic Design graduate program at the Maryland Institute College of Art provides advanced students and qualified designers with skills and knowledge to successfully compete nationally and internationally and to contribute to the public discourse of design.

At Morgan State University, the masters in Music program seeks to help students develop expertise and acquire the information, skills, and experiences necessary to make an independent and original contribution to the profession.

Loyola University Maryland’s Masters of Arts in Emerging Media program prepares students to explore new media’s role in journalism, public relations, advertising, marketing, and other communication disciplines.

Science & Engineering

The Master of Science in Data Science program at Loyola University Maryland blends computer science and statistics courses with business courses to render students adaptable to any domain with rigorous statistical and computational skills.

At John Hopkins University, the Masters of Science in Environmental Science and Policy program focuses students on studying the environmental effects of current use on the creation, updating, regulating, communicating, and enforcing of environmental policy.

The Biological Resources Engineering program at University of Maryland provides qualified students with the interdisciplinary study and research experience they need to contribute to this exciting field.

At the University of Maryland-Baltimore, the Molecular Medicine graduate program provides students with the knowledge and research skills required for a successful research career in the biomedical sciences.

Government

The Master of Science in Government Analytics at Johns Hopkins University helps students develop expertise in analytical methods that are increasingly relied upon by government agencies, non-profit organizations, and the private sector.

At the University of Baltimore, the Master of Public Administration program shows students their role of public administration in a democratic society and understanding what their civic responsibilities are as public servants.

The graduate program in Social Work at Morgan University is directed at the rigorous practice and evaluation of existing clinical, management, and policy approaches in social work.

The University of Maryland – College Park’s graduate program for Public Policy, Management and International Affairs is devoted to the study of public policy, management and international affairs.

Find a Graduate School in Maryland

There’s no right way to pursue a graduate degree in Maryland. We have the tools to help you get started. Find top programs and apply today!

  • National University

  • Wake Forest University

  • The University of Arizona Global Campus

  • Western Governors University

  • Grand Canyon University

  • Colorado State University Global

  • University of Maryland Global Campus

  • Central Michigan University

  • University of Maryland Eastern Shore

  • University of Maryland Baltimore

  • Coppin State University

  • Notre Dame of Maryland University

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