Best Community Colleges in Maryland

Community colleges in Maryland offer several benefits to prospective students. These include cost savings, a large variety of options, and individualized attention from instructors. In-county, out-of-county, and out-of-state learners pay different fees at the state’s community colleges.

With 16 community colleges serving 23 counties, Maryland students can look closely at different options when scouting the right fit. Maryland’s Health Manpower Shortage Program offers discounted tuition for students pursuing certain high-need careers.

Community college programs often allow students to take classes online or in person during days, nights, and weekends.

With hundreds of degrees offered on a variety of schedules, students at community colleges in Maryland can benefit from a great deal of flexibility in their education. All campuses offer daycare for busy parents. Students can receive personal attention from their instructors since most classes enroll fewer than 30 students.

Technology, trade, and transportation fit Maryland perfectly. Maryland ranked 15th in the nation in terms of gross domestic product in 2020. CNBC named Maryland the most improved state for business in the summer of 2021. Maryland also ranks fourth out of all 50 states in terms of internet access and speed. The state looks to expand access even more with the Digital Connectivity Act of 2021.

Information technology, telecommunications, and aerospace/defense are Maryland’s top industries. Community college graduates can pursue several excellent job opportunities with an associate degree or certificate.

Maryland ranks above the national average when it comes to cost of living. The average home price reached $380,000, as of November 2021. Rental rates are in the top 10 nationwide. The Maryland Affordable Housing Trust helps offset some costs and make affordable housing more available statewide.

Maryland is a central location along the Eastern Seaboard, and the District of Columbia is just a stone’s throw away. Sightseeing and community cultural offerings are packed into this small state. Visitors can find Northern and Southern influences throughout communities.

You can also check out Maryland’s seashore with a national park island and wildlife management area.

In the fall and spring, Mayland’s weather remains fairly temperate. Summers bring thunderstorms, while winters bring snowstorms. About once a year, Maryland experiences the remnants of a hurricane, although a hurricane has never hit the state directly.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

Healthcare is projected to remain a central industry in Maryland for years to come. As of 2018, jobs in healthcare were among the fastest-growing occupations in the state. The COVID-19 pandemic has only accelerated that growth.

Food industry occupations are also in demand throughout Maryland.

These professionals help patients manage their day-to-day lives as they recover from illnesses and injuries. They need a relevant associate degree and must get a license from the Maryland Board of Occupational Therapy Practice.

These professionals take medical images of patients using high-tech equipment. These tests then go to doctors who help with diagnosis. There are various specific imaging jobs available.

These technologists prepare patients for MRI tests. The majority of professionals in this field hold an associate degree. MRI technologists do not need a license in Maryland to practice.

These aides help patients who have an injury, disability, or illness carry out day-to-day tasks. Duties can include changing bandages, bathing, dressing, and giving medications. Around 3.5 million people work in this field nationwide.

In Maryland, there are 12-week programs for students who want to quickly enter the food service and culinary industries. Workers must recertify every three years. With a little more education, students can earn an associate degree in restaurant management, which offers the potential to nearly double their salaries.