Let’s face it, college can be pricey. From paying tuition fees, and school materials to funding personal expenses can amount to a huge sum. One of the best academic decisions as a high school graduate is enrolling in one of the Most Affordable Colleges in Maryland.
However, it’s critical to comprehend Maryland’s tuition fee since college tuition remains a major worry for a large number of students and families. The best affordable colleges in Maryland for 2024 are covered in detail in this guide.
We’ll look at how much in-state and out-of-state students pay for tuition fees and highlight the college that offers good education at reasonable costs.
Most Affordable Colleges in Maryland
Maryland’s school system offers options for everyone, regardless of your preferences for specialized programs, esteemed research institutes, or reasonably priced possibilities. The top 10 least expensive colleges in Maryland are shown below.
1. Global Campus of the University of Maryland
Accessibility is a top concern for the University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC).
They assist you in controlling the expense of your education by providing reasonable tuition rates and other financial choices. Federal financial aid, scholarships, interest-free monthly payments, and employer-sponsored tuition aid are all available at UMGC.
With over 30,000 students receiving financial help in 2018, their dedication to affordability is demonstrated by the over $15 million in scholarships they awarded last year.
2. Maryland Campus of the University of Phoenix
With a focus on career-oriented education and practical skills, the University of Phoenix Maryland Campus in Columbia provides a variety of programs. Meeting the needs of working people is a priority for this private, for-profit education.
With an estimated total cost of $17,310 in-state, its affordability is what makes it unique. It is a compelling alternative for those aiming to further their professions without compromising financial security due to its low cost and adaptable learning possibilities.
3. Coppin State University
Located in Baltimore, Coppin State University is a well-known privately owned university with diverse academic programs and interests ranging from liberal arts to health professions and teacher education. With an in-state total cost of around $18,750, its affordability is particularly notable. This makes it a great choice for students who want to attend a top-notch university without having to worry about taking on a lot of debt, especially those who want to use their degree to better their communities.
4. Towson University
Towson University is well known for offering outstanding value in higher education. The estimated yearly expenditures for the 2023–2024 academic year are as follows: $11,306 for in-state undergraduate tuition and fees $9,544 for on-campus accommodation $6,100 on average for an average food plan, for a total of $26,950.
Undergraduates from out-of-state will pay $28,326 more in tuition, for a total estimated cost of $43,970. Graduate students, both in-state and out-of-state, should budget $669 and $1,210 per unit for tuition and fees, respectively.
5. Purdue Global Hagerstown Campus
Notable as one of the cheapest colleges in Hagerstown Maryland, this institution has various programs as well as an accessible quality education designed to help meet the needs of every individual. With a tuition fee of $19,302 Purdue Global College is quite cheap but delivers quite an attractive choice for individuals who wish to advance in their careers.
6. Montgomery College
The tuition fee paid in this institution is based on the number of credit hours and residential status. Residents of Montgomery County are to pay the following tuition fee according to their credit hours. $2,697.00 for 15 credit hours $2,157.60 for 12 credit hours $1,078.80 for six credit hours $539.40 for three credit hours $203.00 for one credit hour.
Tuition costs may vary for Maryland state citizens and non-residents. To further stretch out tuition payments, the college provides an interest-free Tuition Installment Plan.
7. University of Maryland Eastern
Shore Offering a wide range of academic programs, the Institution of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) is a public institution located in Princess Anne, Maryland. In addition to its stellar academic reputation, UMES is known for being reasonably priced, with an in-state total cost of about $20,809. It is a desirable option for anyone looking for a well-rounded college experience because of its variety, excellent curriculum, and reasonable cost.
8. University of Maryland University College
Formerly known as UMUC is a skilled-based institution that offers both online and hybrid programs for adult learners. A tuition fee of over $21,874 is to be paid by in-state students which makes the University of Maryland quite affordable and flexible for those who wish to study online to help advance their career lives.
9. Morgan State University
This well-known state college is birthed on a rich historical background that has a variety of academic programs in different areas of the discipline. They also have a solid research history and of course comprehensive education. Residents who wish to enroll in this powerhouse of knowledge can pay a tuition fee of roughly $21,902.
10. Frostburg State University
One public institution that takes pleasure in offering a wide range of academic programs is Frostburg State Institution (FSU), which is located in Frostburg, Maryland. It is renowned for providing an intimate learning atmosphere that blends demanding coursework with real-world learning experiences.
With an estimated total cost of $22,742, FSU stands out for being reasonably priced. For students wishing to secure their futures via high-quality education, FSU is a desirable option because of its dedication to providing accessible education and its emphasis on professional growth.
How Much Does a College Degree Cost in Maryland?
The cost of a college degree in Maryland can vary significantly depending on two main factors:
- Residency: In-state students generally pay much lower tuition and fees than out-of-state students.
- Institution: Some colleges in Maryland are public institutions with lower costs, while others are private institutions with higher costs.
Here’s a breakdown to give you an idea:
- Average In-State: For the 2024-2025 academic year, the average undergraduate tuition and fees for in-state students in Maryland were around $8,637.
- Average Out-of-State: Out-of-state students face a much steeper price tag, with an average of $22,559 for tuition and fees during the same period.
Beyond Cost
- Public vs. Private: Public colleges tend to be the most affordable option, while private colleges can cost significantly more.
- Specific Schools: Costs can differ greatly between institutions. The University of Maryland, a well-known public school, estimates in-state costs at $30,885 while Johns Hopkins, a prestigious private school, can cost upwards of $59,686 (including living expenses).
Selecting the Perfect Fitting:
Look into the universities that pique your interest to obtain a more precise estimate that best suits you. The majority of universities will provide tuition, fees, and living expenses on their website under the “cost of attendance” section.