University of Maryland Baltimore
The University of Maryland, Baltimore (UMB), founded in 1807 as the College of Medicine of Maryland, is Maryland’s founding and flagship professional campus of the University System. Nestled on a compact 71-acre urban campus on the west side of downtown Baltimore—just steps from Camden Yards, Lexington Market, and the Inner Harbor—UMB encompasses six nationally recognized professional schools: Dentistry, Law, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Social Work, and the Graduate School. Serving around 6,700 students, it offers 97 degree programs ranging from baccalaureate to doctoral and certificate levels and awards the majority of Maryland’s professional practice doctoral degrees annually. As a vibrant academic health center, UMB secured approximately $638 million in external research funding in FY 2024, with each tenured or tenure-track faculty member bringing in an average of $1.45 million in research grants.
UMB’s campus infrastructure reflects its dual mission of education and innovation. Its 58 buildings include historic landmarks like Davidge Hall, alongside modern facilities such as the Southern Management Corporation (SMC) Campus Center—home to dining, meeting spaces, and recreation—and the BioPark, a 10‑acre life sciences research complex. The campus is well-integrated with Baltimore’s transit system, served by the Light Rail, Charm City Circulator, and a UMB shuttle facilitating connections across West Baltimore and the Inner Harbor region. Guided by its core values of respect, integrity, equity, justice, sustainability, and well-being, UMB is dedicated to improving the human condition and public good through its comprehensive educational, research, clinical, and service-based mission.
The Inner Harbor
Baltimore’s Inner Harbor is the city’s most popular tourist destination and a vibrant hub of sightseeing, culture, and entertainment. It’s home to major attractions like the National Aquarium—featuring giant turtles, dolphins, and electric eels—and the Maryland Science Center, which includes a planetarium and observatory. Visitors can enjoy sweeping city views from the Top of the World Observation Level and explore historic warships docked nearby.
The waterfront is lined with scenic views, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, making it a bustling gathering place for both locals and tourists. Power Plant Live!, a lively complex housed in a former power station, offers bars, eateries, and live music. Whether you’re looking for family-friendly museums or lively nightlife, the Inner Harbor has something for everyone.