UMUC

University of Maryland University College Online

• Public university part of the University System of Maryland
• One of the largest distance learning universities in the United States
• Offers over 100 online degree and certificate programs in addition to campus programs
• Coursework accessible 24 hours a day, seven days a week
• Interactive online learning platform
• Wide array of student services for online students
• Serves 36,000 active-duty military service members worldwide
• Financial aid for qualified applicants
• Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education

About University of Maryland University College Online

Founded in 1947, University of Maryland University College (UMUC) is one of the 11 public universities in the University System of Maryland. Dedicated to providing a broad array of educational options, UMUC offers over 100 degree and certificate programs completed entirely online. UMUC has offered online classes since 1994, and utilizes a web-based educational delivery system that they created on their main campus in Adelphi, Maryland. UMUC's online MBA program has been recognized by the IMS Global Learning Consortium as the 2009 Distance Program of the Year, and also won the 2010 award for Outstanding eLearning Program by the Instructional Technology Council.

Academic Programs

UMUC offers a wide array of online undergraduate and graduate degree progams, as well as certificate programs, geared toward adult learners who are unable to attend campus programs. Currently, students interested in an online undergraduate degree program can choose from more than 28 majors and 33 minors, in fields such as Business Administration, Computer Information Technology, Criminal Justice, Fire Science, History, and Legal Studies, to name a few. Almost all of UMUC's graduate degree, including programs leading to master's as well as doctoral degrees, are offered online, in fields such as Accounting and Finance, Homeland Security, Biotechnology, and International Management, among others. In addition, UMUC offers a selection of both undergraduate and graduate certificate programs completed entirely online.

Learning Options

Most online coursework at UMUC is completed asynchronously, with students completing assignments at their own convenience according to specified deadlines. Classes are interactive, with students and instructors in contact with each other several times per week through the virtual classroom. The online learning platform, WebTycho, is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Faculty

Online courses are taught by the same UMUC faculty that teach campus programs. The curriculum at UMUC Online is designed and taught by highly-qualified, degreed faculty members.

Student Life

UMUC's online programs are flexible, allowing adult learners to continue working throughout the program. Many services are available to students including career services, computing resources, tutoring, online clubs, writing center, and library services, among others.

Admissions and Financial Aid

Admissions requirements vary by program, and interested students should check each program for specific information. Applications are available online, and student advisors are available for assistance. Documentation of a student's educational background is required, such as official transcripts showing cumulative grade-point averages. Interested applicants should also complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), as part of the process. The Financial Aid Office is committed to helping students make their education affordable, and offer federal financial aid including grants, scholarships, and loans.