Introduction
The University of Maryland, College Park (UMD) and Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) are two of the most prestigious public research universities in the United States. Both institutions offer a wide range of academic programs and boast impressive research facilities. However, there are some key differences between the two universities that prospective students should consider before making a decision.
Campus
UMD is located in College Park, Maryland, just outside of Washington, D.C. The campus is home to over 40,000 students and 14 colleges and schools. UMD has a large and diverse student body, with students from all 50 states and over 120 countries.
Penn State is located in University Park, Pennsylvania, in the heart of the state. The campus is home to over 46,000 students and 18 colleges and schools. Penn State has a more rural setting than UMD, but it still offers a wide range of student life activities.
Academics
UMD is known for its strong academic programs in engineering, computer science, and business. The university is also home to the prestigious Maryland Institute for Technology in the Humanities (MITH).
Penn State is known for its strong academic programs in engineering, agriculture, and the liberal arts. The university is also home to the renowned Schreyer Honors College.
Both UMD and Penn State offer a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees. The universities also have a strong commitment to research, with both institutions receiving over $1 billion in research funding annually.
Athletics
UMD and Penn State have both strong athletic programs. UMD’s athletic teams compete in the Big Ten Conference, while Penn State’s athletic teams compete in the Big Ten Conference and the Atlantic Coast Conference.
UMD has won 34 national championships in various sports, including football, basketball, and soccer. Penn State has won 31 national championships in various sports, including football, wrestling, and volleyball.
Student Life
UMD and Penn State both offer a wide range of student life activities. Both universities have active student governments, student organizations, and athletic clubs.
UMD is home to the Stamp Student Union, which is one of the largest student unions in the country. The Stamp Student Union offers a variety of student services, including dining, entertainment, and meeting spaces.
Penn State is home to the HUB-Robeson Center, which is a student union and conference center. The HUB-Robeson Center offers a variety of student services, including dining, entertainment, and meeting spaces.
Cost
The cost of attendance at UMD and Penn State is comparable. The total cost of attendance for in-state students at UMD is $26,316 per year, while the total cost of attendance for out-of-state students is $45,690 per year.
The total cost of attendance for in-state students at Penn State is $29,176 per year, while the total cost of attendance for out-of-state students is $47,284 per year.
Which University is Right for You?
The decision of which university to attend is a personal one. Both UMD and Penn State are excellent universities with a lot to offer. The best way to decide which university is right for you is to visit both campuses and talk to current students and faculty.
Table 1: UMD vs. Penn State by the Numbers
| Characteristic | UMD | Penn State |
|---|---|---|
| Location | College Park, Maryland | University Park, Pennsylvania |
| Campus Size | 1,250 acres | 7,900 acres |
| Student Body | 40,000+ | 46,000+ |
| Faculty | 3,000+ | 4,000+ |
| Research Funding | $1 billion+ | $1 billion+ |
| National Championships | 34 | 31 |
| Total Cost of Attendance (In-State) | $26,316 | $29,176 |
Table 2: UMD vs. Penn State: Academic Programs
| Program | UMD | Penn State |
|---|---|---|
| Engineering | Strong | Strong |
| Computer Science | Strong | Strong |
| Business | Strong | Strong |
| Agriculture | Not as strong | Strong |
| Liberal Arts | Strong | Strong |
Table 3: UMD vs. Penn State: Student Life
| Activity | UMD | Penn State |
|---|---|---|
| Student Government | Active | Active |
| Student Organizations | 500+ | 400+ |
| Athletic Clubs | 30+ | 30+ |
| Student Union | Stamp Student Union | HUB-Robeson Center |
Table 4: UMD vs. Penn State: Cost of Attendance
| Type of Student | UMD | Penn State |
|---|---|---|
| In-State | $26,316 | $29,176 |
| Out-of-State | $45,690 | $47,284 |
Tips and Tricks for Choosing the Right University
- Visit both campuses. This is the best way to get a feel for the atmosphere of each university.
- Talk to current students and faculty. This is a great way to get an insider’s perspective on each university.
- Consider your academic interests. Which university has the strongest programs in your field of interest?
- Consider your student life interests. Which university offers the activities and organizations that you are most interested in?
- Consider the cost of attendance. Make sure you can afford the total cost of attendance before you decide on a university.
Why it Matters
Choosing the right university is a big decision. The university you choose will have a significant impact on your academic and professional career. By taking the time to consider your options carefully, you can make the best decision for your future.
Benefits of Choosing the Right University
- You will be more likely to succeed academically. Students who attend the right university are more likely to earn good grades and graduate on time.
- You will be more likely to find a job after graduation. Graduates from the right university are more likely to be employed in their field of interest and earn a higher salary.
- You will have a more fulfilling college experience. Students who attend the right university are more likely to be involved in campus activities and make lifelong friends.