Online learning has been a focal point for Maryland educators and legislators since 1995. The Maryland State Educational Technology Plan was implemented in the 90s in an effort to keep educational technology relevant and accessible at the state and local level. Over the course of the last twenty years, the goals of the program have been updated and revised to remain current, but the aim continues to be to keep Maryland students tech-savvy and to keep educational ratings in the topmost percentiles in the country.
This initiative extends from K-12 learning environments to postsecondary education, where the Maryland Higher Learning Commission has implemented the Maryland Ready program that will guide the state's collegiate goals and investments. Maryland has a tradition of leading the nation in terms of innovative learning and keeping pace with educational trends and best practices. Students seeking a college degree from Maryland can expect this tradition to continue well into the future as the economy continues to improve and enrollment rates steadily progress in conjunction.
In 2012, Maryland was able to increase state-appropriated funding for students by over 10%. Between 2009 and 2014, tuition at two and four-year colleges raised by around 5 and 10%, respectively; both percentages are lower than the national average of an 18% increase for two-year college tuition rates and 17% for four-year colleges and universities. Finally, enrollment in Maryland colleges has increased by 25% between 2002 and 2012, a slight improvement over the 19% national average.
At present, there are around 50 schools in Maryland that offer online programs or courses. Explore these colleges and universities in the database below. Also, be sure to review our collection of scholarships to learn about more than 230 awards available to current and prospective students. There is more to learn about an education in Maryland; a great place to start are the links under the Higher Learning tab and State Facts tab, found below.
Featured Online Programs
45 Colleges in Maryland
Strayer University-Maryland
Suitland, MD · Tuition & fees: $12,975
Additional Resources
Official State Links
- Maryland State Department of Education
- Maryland Higher Education Commission
- Maryland Association of Boards of Education
College Savings
- Maryland Prepaid College Trust: One of the state's official college savings plans, this program allows students to "lock in" current tuition prices by putting away money early. The program is backed by a Maryland Legislative Guarantee, includes tax benefits, and is transferrable out of state.
- Maryland College Investment Plan: Another state program, this is a more traditional 529 savings plan, allowing students or parents to contribute money to a tax-deferred account. The plan is low cost and designed to help families start saving early.
- Maryland College Access Challenge Grant: This grant is arranged at the federal level but administered by the Maryland Higher Education Commission. Organizations provide matching "challenge" grants to increase the amount of funds available, and the Commission allocates the grant to increase the number of low income students able to attend college or university.
Education Nonprofits
- Maryland College Goal Sunday: This nonprofit organizes events across the state designed to help students fill out the FAFSA and connect to further financial aid resources. They also answer student questions about college and admissions requirements. Their events are typically held in January and February.
- Maryland Business Roundtable for Education: Established as a means to connect business leaders with the world of education, this nonprofit uses resources from the private-sector to advocate for higher education and provide resources to students in need. MBRT arranges speakers and seminars, campaigns for legislation aimed at improving education, and several initiatives to support students interested in STEM careers.
- MDgo4it: This site, run by the Maryland Higher Education Commission, include a wealth of information for prospective students. It answers questions about life at college, directs students to financial aid resources, and provides tips on the application process.
Higher Education News
- Maryland Higher Education Commission Press Room: The MHEC updates its site with trends and key changes in higher education across the state.
- Edweek Maryland: One of the leading national education publications, Edweek, filters its content by state, covering everything from anti-bullying to college costs to school diversity trends.