What Is the University System of Maryland & How Does ��Work with USM?

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By Kathleen Thornton

Director of Marketing Copy and Content

June 02, 2025

If you’re familiar with University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC), you’ve probably heard us share how proud we are to be a member of the University System of Maryland (USM). If not, you’re about to:

At UMGC, we are so proud to be a member institution of USM.

But, what is the , and why does UMGC’s affiliation with the system matter?

��President Gregory Fowler, PhD, left, and USM Chancellor Jay Perman, MD, right, celebrate the 75th anniversary of UMGC's presence in Europe in April 2024.

USM is the state of Maryland’s public higher education system. Public higher education refers to institutions and universities that are created and regulated by the state’s government and receive part of their funding from the state. USM includes 12 institutions (including UMGC), three higher education centers, and a system office. The system is governed by its 21-member and led by . Together, the Board and Chancellor guide the system to improve access to higher education, drive innovation and research, collaborate and share resources, meet the ever-evolving needs of the job market, and more.

USM Working “For the Good of Maryland”

USM is a powerful force within the state of Maryland, across the United States, and around the world. , and in economic activity.

USM recently launched its first branding campaign—“”—to help communicate the power of a college degree and the critical role USM and its members play in paving the way for a better life for all of the state’s residents.

As the system explains, USM is sharing student, faculty, and alumni stories to illustrate the many ways in which it helps students

“Our universities unite around core values and a shared vision for the future of Maryland and beyond,” the campaign website explains. “Working both independently and collaboratively, they provide students with diverse pathways to a future brimming with opportunity, growth, and influence.”

��is proud to contribute to USM’s success by driving success, growth, and innovation in the state of Maryland and beyond.

The Benefits of ��and USM

When students choose to attend universities within USM, they’re choosing to root their education in this incredibly strong foundation. They’re also choosing to learn at an institution with : “To improve the quality of life for the people of Maryland by providing a comprehensive range of high quality, accessible, and affordable educational opportunities; engaging in research and scholarship that expand the boundaries of current knowledge; and providing knowledge-based programs and services that are responsive to the needs of the citizens of the state and the nation.”

��President Gregory W. Fowler, PhD, said, "Each institution in the University System of Maryland (USM) has unique strengths and a unique role in Maryland and in our modern world. Being part of the System strengthens UMGC's global brand and enhances our ability to provide adult and nontraditional learners with life-transforming learning experiences that are accessible, affordable, and aligned with workforce needs. It is deeply gratifying to know that, together, we offer educational opportunities that align with any learner's needs."

In a time when more and more online education options continue to pop up, students who choose to earn a degree, certificate, or other credential online at ��can trust not only in UMGC’s reputation as a leading provider of higher education to working adults but also in the reputation of USM and the state of Maryland.

Said Fowler, "The University System of Maryland exemplifies the power of collaboration. By working alongside the other System institutions, ��can offer innovative programs and services that meet the evolving needs of the modern workforce. Our shared missions ensure that together, we can make a tangible impact in Maryland, provide access and opportunity to all, positioning learners to reach their fullest potential, and ultimately inspiring hope, empowering dreams, and transforming lives ... one student at a time."

Reference on this webpage to any third-party entity or product does not constitute or imply endorsement by ��nor does it constitute or imply endorsement of ��by the third party. 

Learn More About UMGC’s Mission and History

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