Maryland is one of the wealthiest states in the US, with a bustling education and business scene. This makes going to school in the state and getting a job there after graduation an excellent decision. If you want top-quality education without breaking the bank, check out our lists of the cheapest colleges in Maryland.
These low-tuition colleges offer similar benefits as their higher-priced counterparts. Of course, no article on the cheapest universities in Maryland would be complete without the cheapest online colleges in Maryland, so we’ve included them too. Read on to discover the most affordable colleges in Maryland, their top degree programs, and scholarship opportunities.
How Much Does College Cost in Maryland?
College tuition in Maryland ranges from as low as $2,738.50 per semester to $10,818 per semester. These figures don’t include other costs associated with college, like facility fees, textbooks, transportation, and room and board. While a public university tends to be cheaper than a private one, there aren’t any apparent differences in the quality of education available to students.
Consequently, there is a wide range of educational options available to students in Maryland. Whether you are a high school senior going to college for the first time or an undergraduate looking to enroll in a graduate program, you have several excellent on-campus and online options in the state.
Most Affordable Colleges in Maryland: The Basics
| School | Location | Undergraduate Tuition | Graduate Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bowie State University | Bowie | $2,937.50 per semester (in state), $8,333 per semester (out of state) | $439 per credit (in state), $723 per credit (out of state) |
| Coppin State University | Baltimore | $3,452 per semester (in state), $6,780 per semester (out of state) | $358 per credit (in state), $659 per credit (out of state) |
| Frostburg State University | Frostburg | $6,974 per semester (in state), $21,854 per semester (out of state) | $456 per credit (in state), $588 per credit (out of state) |
| University of Baltimore | Baltimore | $3,648 per semester (in state), $10,373 per semester (out of state) | $788 per credit (in state), $1,156 per credit (out of state) |
| University of Maryland-College Park | College Park | $9,695 per year (in state), $37,931 per year (out of state) | $811.90 per credit (in state), $1,769.38 per credit (out of state) |
| University of Maryland-Baltimore County | Baltimore | $12,280 per year (in state), $28,470 per year (out of state) | $14,814 per year (in state), $23,580 per year (out of state) |
| Morgan State University | Baltimore | $2,738.50 per semester (in state), $7,974.50 per semester (out of state) | $455 per credit (in state), $894 per credit (out of state) |
| University of Maryland Eastern Shore | Princess Anne | $2,818.50 per semester (in state), $8,233.50 per semester (out of state) | $346 per credit (in state), $641 per credit (out of state) |
| Salisbury University | Salisbury | $10,396 per semester (in state), $20,872 per semester (out of state) | $420 per credit (in state), $760 per credit (out of state) |
| Towson University | Towson | $10,818 per semester (in state), $26,820 per semester (out of state) | $642 per credit (in state), $1,158 per credit (out of state) |
Cheapest Universities in Maryland: A Closer Look
The cheapest colleges in Maryland charge a tuition rate ranging from less than $3,000 to over $10,000 per semester for undergraduates. Graduate students pay per credit, and some graduate programs are more expensive than others. Below, we take a closer look at the cheapest colleges in Maryland and their programs.
Cheapest Online Colleges in Maryland
| School | Online Tuition | Programs Available Online |
|---|---|---|
| University of Maryland Global Campus | $312 per credit (in state), $499 per credit (out of state) |
Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhDs |
| Strayer University-Maryland | $1,480 per course | Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhDs |
| Goucher College | $21,000-$22,500 per year | Master’s, Certificates |
| Notre Dame of Maryland University | $380 to $625 per credit | Associate, Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhDs |
| Stevenson University | $395 to $695 per credit | Bachelor’s, Master’s, Certificates, PhDs |
Cheapest Colleges in Maryland by In-State Tuition
- Morgan State University | $2,738.50 per semester
- University of Maryland Eastern Shore | $2,818.50 per semester
- Bowie State University | $2,937.50 per semester
- Coppin State University | $3,452 per semester
- Frostburg State University | $6,974 per semester
Cheapest Colleges in Maryland by Out-of-State Tuition
- Frostburg State University | $588 per credit
- University of Maryland Eastern Shore | $641 per credit
- Coppin State University | $659 per credit
- Bowie State University | $723 per credit
- Salisbury University | $760 per credit
Why Is College So Expensive?
College is expensive because of the growing demand for it, the increasing average cost of tuition, and reduced government funding. The costs of things like housing and transportation also influence how much money students spend on college. Below, we take a closer look at some of the factors influencing the cost of postsecondary education today.
Tuition and Fees
Tuition and fees have been rising consistently over the last few decades due to inflation and increased demand for college education. For example, national averages for tuition at public four-year institutions increased by around 13 percent from 2010 to 2020, according to NCES figures. Private, non-profit institutions also saw fees rise by over 18 percent in the same period.
Books and Supplies
These essential academic tools for students aren’t cheap. Schools often include an estimation of the cost of books and supplies, which can be anywhere from $500 to $2,500 per year, depending on your program. However, you can save some money by buying used textbooks or renting them, instead. Some student bookstores also buy books back when you are done with them.
Personal Expenses
Food, room and board, and other everyday expenses are a part of college life. While you may pay cheaper rates for room and board on campus, many students choose to live off campus. Apartments can be costly, and accommodation is often the most significant annual expense for students, after tuition.
Best Universities by State
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How to Save Money in College
- Use the library. The library is the best place to find most of the academic material you’ll need during your college program. It often has textbooks, academic journals, and research papers that you cannot obtain from other sources. Thankfully, many schools now have online libraries, in addition to physical locations.
- Apply for scholarships. Scholarships are one of the most common ways to reduce the financial burden of attending college, and all students should apply for them. Nearly all schools offer scholarship or grant options for students, and government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private individuals fund others.
- Buy used textbooks from discount bookstores. Books and other academic supplies can consume a large chunk of your budget as a student if you don’t know where to get them. Patronize bookstores around your school to find used textbooks you need for class, which cost considerably less than buying retail.
- Get a part-time job. Working part-time while in college is ubiquitous in American culture, and for good reason. Working as a clerk, waitress, or in other part-time roles in restaurants, offices, and other organizations is a fantastic way to earn money, gain valuable work experience, and defray some of your college costs.
- Use a student pass for public transportation. Transportation networks on and around college campuses often include buses and other vehicles. Check to see if your school offers student passes, which may allow you to ride for free or pay a discounted rate. Riding a bicycle is another cheap transportation option to consider.
How to Apply for Financial Aid in Maryland
- Apply for admission to an accredited institution. You must apply for and be admitted into a program at a university or college to receive financial aid. Depending on the school and the program, you may be required to submit high school or college transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and letters of recommendation, along with your application.
- Register on the FAFSA website. As soon as you apply to a school, access the Free Application for Federal Student Aid website and register. You’ll have to provide a few personal details like your name and age during the registration process.
- Fill out the application form. After registering, you’ll need to fill out the FAFSA form. This form typically requires information such as your social security number or alien registration number, depending on your citizenship status. You may also need to provide income tax statements and investment records, depending on your income and employment status.
- Apply for public scholarships and grants. Maryland has robust college financial aid opportunities. Apply for scholarships and grants, many of which are available via your school or other organizations. Remember that your chances of getting financial aid increase, along with the number of programs you apply for, so be sure to exhaust all of your possibilities.
Scholarships for Students in Maryland
| Scholarship Title | Provider | Amount | Criteria |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2+2 Transfer Scholarship | Maryland Higher Education Commission | $1,000 per year ($2,000 for students in teaching and STEM fields) | The candidate must be a full-time degree-seeking student at a Maryland community college. |
| Maryland Community College Promise Scholarship | The State of Maryland | Up to $5,000 per year | The candidate must be a full-time degree-seeking student at a Maryland community college and eligible for in-state tuition. |
| Nicole Washington Scholarship | The Baltimore chapter of the Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS) | $1,500 per year | The candidate must be a female Maryland resident who is a returning full-time civil engineering student at Morgan State University. |
| Howard P Rawlings Educational Assistance (EA) Grant |
Maryland Higher Education Commission | $3,000 per year | The applicant must be an aspiring or current full-time undergraduate college student at a two-year or four-year college in Maryland. |
| Howard P Rawlings Guaranteed Access (GA) Grant |
Maryland Higher Education Commission | Up to $20,000 per year | The candidate must be a full-time undergraduate degree-seeking applicant at a two- or four-year Maryland college. |
| Maryland Senatorial Scholarship | Maryland House of Delegates | Between $400 and $12,700 per year | The candidate must be a Maryland resident, be enrolled at a postsecondary degree-granting institution within the state, and demonstrate financial need. |
| State Delegate Scholarship | Maryland House of Delegates | N/A | The candidate must be a current or prospective graduate or undergraduate student at a Maryland tertiary institution. |
| Near Completer Grant | Maryland Higher Education Commission | N/A | The candidate must be a Maryland resident previously enrolled in a two-year or four-year college degree program, with a minimum GPA of 2.0 and at least 45 or 90 credit hours, respectively. |
| Part-Time Grant | Maryland Higher Education Commission | Between $200 and $2,000 per year | The candidate must be dually enrolled in a Maryland high school and higher education institution. |
| Graduate and Professional Scholarship | Maryland Higher Education Commission | Between $1,000 and $5,000 per year | The candidate must be enrolled in a graduate or professional degree program at selected Maryland universities. |
How to Choose a Cheap College in Maryland
Choosing a university to attend can be a hassle, especially if you have limited financial means and are looking for the best bang-for-your-buck programs. Here are a few things to keep in mind that make choosing an affordable school easier.
Scholarship Opportunities
Start with schools that have both merit- and need-based scholarship programs available to deserving students. For example, you may be talented in a particular sport, music, or in academics. Or you might qualify for need-based aid due to your or your family’s lower income level. Look for schools offering ample scholarships and apply as soon as possible.
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Net Price of Tuition and Other Costs
While it’s relatively easy to find the tuition costs for most schools, it can be harder to know the overall cost of attending each school. Your net cost will be what you can expect to pay each year after scholarships and other aid are applied. A school’s tuition might seem high, but you might still be able to afford it with aid. Keep in mind that things like books and other supplies and room and board aren’t included in the cost of tuition.
Location
The location of a school matters a lot in terms of the cost of attendance. For instance, a school in a big city will likely have a higher average student and overall costs than one in a small town. Accordingly, consider the pros and cons of each and make your decision based on the factors that are most important to you.
Best Community Colleges by State
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Highest-Paying Jobs for College Graduates in Maryland
| Job Title | Average Salary in Maryland | Minimum Education |
|---|---|---|
| Dentist | $158,520 | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Marketing Manager | $145,290 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Lawyer | $140,450 | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Computer Network Architect | $136,520 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Actuary | $124,950 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Pharmacist | $121,290 | Doctoral or professional degree |
| Financial Examiner | $108,060 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Management Analyst | $107,020 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Operations Research Analyst | $105,040 | Bachelor’s degree |
| Database Administrator | $100,350 | Bachelor’s degree |
Best Jobs for College Grads in Maryland: Explained
Accredited Online Colleges by State
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Is a Cheap College in Maryland Worth It?
Yes, it is worth it. You can get a top-notch education at an affordable cost at many reputable private and public institutions in the state. It’s even possible to graduate debt-free or close it while possessing the skills and knowledge to thrive in the modern workplace.
Cheapest Colleges in Maryland FAQ
No, it is not affordable for the majority of college applicants. According to NCES figures, undergraduate students at JHU pay average tuition of close to $59,000, making it one of the most expensive schools in Maryland. Furthermore, the demand to get into this school is extremely high, and the admissions process is highly selective.
No, it is unlikely that you can. However, you may be eligible for financial aid that essentially makes college free for you. There are ample scholarships and other aid opportunities available for students in Maryland that can be applied to tuition, fees, or even cost-of-living expenses.
Yes, it is. Maryland is home to many colleges and universities offering students various scholarships and grants. The Maryland Higher Education Commission also provides more than 20 funding options to graduate and undergraduate students, depending on their major and eligibility.
University of Maryland-College Park and Johns Hopkins University have excellent sports programs for student-athletes. Others include Towson University, Salisbury University, and St. Mary’s College of Maryland. They offer students the best academic and sports degree programs, and their sports teams excel in regional and national college competitions.
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