Maryland is home to numerous prestigious private colleges and universities, each offering a distinct educational environment, specialized academic programs, and strong community involvement. From historic institutions to those known for their research and professional programs, Maryland’s private institutions provide diverse opportunities for students.
Johns Hopkins University
Overview
Johns Hopkins University, located in Baltimore, is one of the most renowned private research universities in the world. Established in 1876, it was the first research university in the United States, dedicated to the pursuit of knowledge and the dissemination of groundbreaking research.
Academic Programs
Johns Hopkins offers a wide variety of undergraduate, graduate, and professional degrees across its divisions:
- Krieger School of Arts and Sciences
- Whiting School of Engineering
- Carey Business School
- School of Education
- Peabody Institute (Conservatory)
- School of Medicine
- Bloomberg School of Public Health
- School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS)
- School of Nursing
Notable Programs:
- Biomedical Engineering
- International Relations
- Public Health
- Political Science
- Neuroscience
- Medicine
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 27,000 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 7:1, providing a highly personalized learning experience.
- Athletics: Johns Hopkins Blue Jays compete in NCAA Division III, with the lacrosse teams participating in Division I.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes over 400 student organizations, ranging from academic societies to cultural clubs and community service organizations.
Research and Community Impact
Johns Hopkins is recognized for its research contributions, particularly in the fields of medicine, public health, engineering, and the humanities. The university has a global impact, with partnerships around the world and a reputation for excellence in scientific discovery and innovation. Locally, the institution is deeply connected to the Baltimore community through service initiatives, educational outreach, and economic contributions.
Loyola University Maryland
Overview
Loyola University Maryland, a Jesuit Catholic university located in Baltimore, was founded in 1852. It offers a liberal arts education grounded in the Jesuit tradition, emphasizing academic excellence, leadership, and service.
Academic Programs
Loyola offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs through its schools:
- College of Arts and Sciences
- Sellinger School of Business and Management
- School of Education
Notable Programs:
- Business Administration
- Psychology
- Communications
- Political Science
- Education
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 5,600 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1, promoting strong student-professor interactions.
- Athletics: The Loyola Greyhounds compete in NCAA Division I sports, particularly excelling in lacrosse.
- Extracurricular Activities: More than 200 student clubs and organizations, including service groups, Greek life, and academic societies.
Jesuit Values and Service
Loyola’s mission is deeply rooted in the Jesuit values of service, social justice, and leadership. Students are encouraged to participate in service-learning opportunities both locally and globally. Loyola’s commitment to preparing students for meaningful lives and careers is evident through its focus on ethical leadership and community involvement.
Mount St. Mary’s University
Overview
Founded in 1808, Mount St. Mary’s University is a Catholic liberal arts institution located in Emmitsburg, Maryland. It is one of the oldest Catholic universities in the United States, with a strong emphasis on faith, reason, and service.
Academic Programs
Mount St. Mary’s offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a variety of fields:
- College of Liberal Arts
- Richard J. Bolte School of Business
- School of Natural Science and Mathematics
- School of Education
Notable Programs:
- Theology and Philosophy
- Business Administration
- Criminal Justice
- Education
- Environmental Science
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 2,300 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 13:1, fostering close-knit classroom environments.
- Athletics: The Mountaineers compete in NCAA Division I, particularly in basketball, soccer, and cross country.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes over 70 student-run organizations, ranging from faith-based groups to academic clubs and leadership programs.
Faith and Service
As a Catholic university, Mount St. Mary’s places a strong emphasis on the integration of faith and education. Students are encouraged to engage in community service, spiritual growth, and leadership. The campus is also home to the National Shrine Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes, a significant spiritual site for Catholics.
Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA)
Overview
Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA), located in Baltimore, is one of the top art and design schools in the country. Founded in 1826, MICA offers innovative programs in the visual arts and is known for its emphasis on creativity, experimentation, and social change.
Academic Programs
MICA offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in art and design fields, with programs including:
- Fine Arts
- Graphic Design
- Illustration
- Animation
- Photography
- Art Education
- Interactive Arts
Notable Programs:
- Painting
- Graphic Design
- Sculpture
- Animation
- Game Design
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Around 3,500 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 9:1, providing individualized attention and mentorship for students.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes numerous student-run art collectives, exhibition opportunities, and community outreach programs.
Community and Cultural Engagement
MICA plays an active role in Baltimore’s thriving arts scene. The institution encourages students to engage with local communities through public art projects, internships, and partnerships with cultural organizations. MICA’s dedication to fostering socially conscious artists is a key aspect of its mission.
Goucher College
Overview
Goucher College, located in Towson, just outside Baltimore, is a private liberal arts college known for its emphasis on global education and experiential learning. Founded in 1885, Goucher was one of the first colleges in the U.S. to require study abroad for all undergraduate students.
Academic Programs
Goucher offers undergraduate and graduate degrees through its various departments:
- Biological Sciences and Environmental Studies
- Humanities
- Social Sciences
- Education and Professional Studies
Notable Programs:
- International Relations
- Psychology
- Environmental Studies
- Creative Writing
- Dance
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 2,000 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1, promoting personalized instruction and mentorship.
- Athletics: The Goucher Gophers compete in NCAA Division III.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes over 60 student clubs, ranging from political organizations to performing arts and service groups.
Global Focus and Study Abroad
Goucher’s distinctive requirement for all students to study abroad reflects its commitment to global citizenship and intercultural learning. The college offers partnerships with universities around the world, allowing students to gain diverse perspectives and real-world experience in their fields of study.
Washington College
Overview
Washington College, located in Chestertown on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, is one of the nation’s oldest colleges, founded in 1782. Named after George Washington, who served on its first Board of Visitors, Washington College offers a rigorous liberal arts education with a focus on writing, leadership, and environmental studies.
Academic Programs
Washington College offers undergraduate programs in various disciplines, including:
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Natural Sciences and Mathematics
- Creative Arts
- Business Management
- Environmental Studies
Notable Programs:
- English and Creative Writing
- Political Science
- Environmental Science
- Business
- History
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Around 1,400 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 11:1.
- Athletics: The Shoremen and Shorewomen compete in NCAA Division III sports.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes over 80 student clubs and organizations, including literary societies, leadership development programs, and sustainability initiatives.
Sustainability and Environmental Focus
Washington College is renowned for its commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Center for Environment & Society offers students hands-on opportunities to engage in research, conservation efforts, and public policy initiatives related to the Chesapeake Bay region.
McDaniel College
Overview
McDaniel College, located in Westminster, Maryland, is a private liberal arts college founded in 1867. Formerly known as Western Maryland College, it was renamed in 2002 to honor alum William Roberts McDaniel. The college emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and a strong sense of community.
Academic Programs
McDaniel offers undergraduate and graduate degrees across a range of disciplines:
- School of Liberal Arts and Sciences
- School of Graduate and Professional Studies
Notable Programs:
- Psychology
- Kinesiology
- Political Science
- Communication
- Education
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Around 1,800 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 12:1, providing a supportive academic environment.
- Athletics: The Green Terror competes in NCAA Division III athletics.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes over 90 student organizations, Greek life, and leadership development programs.
Interdisciplinary Learning and Civic Engagement
McDaniel’s unique curriculum allows students to design their own interdisciplinary majors and participate in various experiential learning opportunities. The college is committed to civic engagement, encouraging students to contribute to local communities through service and leadership initiatives.
Notre Dame of Maryland University
Overview
Notre Dame of Maryland University (NDMU), located in Baltimore, is a Catholic institution founded in 1895. It was originally established as a women’s college, though today it offers coeducational graduate programs while maintaining a strong commitment to educating women at the undergraduate level.
Academic Programs
NDMU offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in a range of fields:
- School of Arts, Sciences, and Business
- School of Education
- School of Nursing
- School of Pharmacy
Notable Programs:
- Nursing
- Business
- Education
- Pharmacy
- Liberal Arts
Campus Life
- Student Enrollment: Approximately 2,200 students.
- Student-to-Faculty Ratio: 10:1.
- Athletics: The NDMU Gators compete in NCAA Division III sports.
- Extracurricular Activities: Includes a variety of student clubs focused on academic, professional, and service-based activities.
Women’s Education and Leadership
NDMU is dedicated to fostering leadership and empowerment, particularly for women. Its women-centered undergraduate programs focus on developing critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and global awareness. The university also offers numerous community service opportunities, emphasizing its mission of service and leadership in action.