Towson University vs University of Maryland Baltimore County

Towson University vs University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC)

Subject Strength & Global Rankings (2025/2026)

Towson University is regionally accredited and generally not ranked among the world's leading global universities. It fares well in the U.S. for applied professional disciplines, education, business, health sciences, and liberal arts. The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC), on the other hand, has a better research reputation, especially in STEM disciplines. University of Maryland, Baltimore County ranks #801-850 in QS and 601-800^th in Times Higher Education with established strength in computer science, engineering, and cybersecurity. UMBC is specifically highly regarded nationally for sending graduates on to advanced study in STEM, whereas Towson has a stronger emphasis on regional professional preparation.

General Information

Towson University, just north of Baltimore, is Maryland's second-largest university, with about 19,000 students. It focuses on a general set of undergraduate and master's degree programs with a career-oriented, practical emphasis. UMBC, with about 14,000 students, is a constituent institution of the University System of Maryland and has a reputation for combining a research-intensive environment with liberal arts accessibility. Towson features a classic suburban campus, whereas UMBC provides research-oriented, diverse surroundings with strong ties to government and technology industries in the Baltimore-Washington corridor.

Acceptance Rate & Admissions

Towson University is moderately selective, with an average acceptance rate of 83%, which indicates its accessibility and regional focus. UMBC is more selective, accepting nearly 74% of its applicants, and is especially competitive in STEM and honors programs. UMBC draws high-achieving academically inclined students, particularly those interested in research, whereas Towson offers wider access for a broad array of fields.

Research Impact & Facilities

UMBC excels in research, especially in the STEM disciplines, computer science, and cybersecurity, with large grants and federal collaborations. It is well-known nationally for innovation and undergraduate research experiences, particularly through pathways that lead to PhD preparation. Towson prioritizes applied research in education, health sciences, and business, with facilities and community ties readying students for regional workforce demands. While UMBC's research productivity has higher national prominence, Towson is a solid contributor in professional preparation and applied academic assistance.

Cost & Financial Aid

As Maryland public institutions, tuition is comparably low to private institutions. In-state tuition at both is approximately USD 10,500–12,000, with out-of-state tuition at approximately USD 26,000–28,000. UMBC and Towson both offer work-study programs, scholarships, and financial aid packages, with Towson being slightly less costly in total. UMBC's competitive scholarship is generally geared toward high-achieving STEM students, whereas Towson focuses on need-based and merit awards across all disciplines.

Career Outcomes & Alumni Success

UMBC graduates are well known for their achievements in science, technology, and academia, as the institution itself is frequently credited with producing African American students who become PhD-holding STEM graduates. Its alumni are hired by government organizations, research facilities, and technology firms. Towson graduates find success in education, business, health careers, communications, and the arts, mirroring its status as a regional professional development leader. UMBC has greater national reputation in research-intensive disciplines, while Towson offers a wide access to solid professional success in Maryland and the mid-Atlantic.