We earn commissions from brands listed on this site, which influences how listings are presented.
Top10.com Staff
Top10.com's editorial staff is a professional team of editors and writers with dozens of years of experience covering consumer, financial and business products and services.
Read more

October 30, 2025

0 min

umgc
Years operating
Since 1947
Variety of degrees
135+ online degrees and certificates
Tuition
$330 per credit (in-state undergrad); $499 (out-of-state)

UMGC Pros & Cons

Pros

$0 textbook costs for nearly all courses
Generous transfer credit options
Accredited public university and member of the University of Maryland

Cons

Limited doctoral-level programs
Out-of-state tuition higher than in-state tuition
umgc

UMGC at a Glance

9
Editorial Score

Years Operating

Founded in 1947 as the College of Special and Continuation Studies and operating for over 75 years.
9.0

Variety of Programs

Offers over 135 degrees and certificates, including 30+ bachelor’s, 40+ master’s degrees online in high‑demand fields.
10.0

Tuition

Competitive tuition and offers $0 textbook cost for nearly every course, scholarships, but tuition still state‑based.
8.0

Accreditation

Has regional institutional accreditation from the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
8.0

Degree Levels

Offers associate, bachelor's, and master's degrees, as well as doctoral programs and certificates.
10.0

Visit Site

Overview

UMGC delivers regionally accredited, 100% online degree programs that fit the schedules of busy professionals and military personnel. The university offers associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and certificate programs in fields such as business, cybersecurity, data analytics, IT, health services management, and education. Programs emphasize applied learning, designed by industry experts to match employer needs. With more than 90,000 students worldwide, UMGC is one of the largest online public universities in the U.S. It’s known for removing barriers through affordable tuition, no-cost digital textbooks, and dedicated support for transfer and military students.

How UMGC Works

  1. Apply now. Rrememer to review the undergraduate and graduate admission requirements before submitting your application online.

  2. Work with an advisor to identify the right degree or certificate program, evaluate transfer credits, and explore payment options or financial aid opportunities.

  3. Select your start date and begin building your future with UMGC’s flexible, fully online learning environment.

Accreditation & Recognition

UMGC is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), ensuring high standards of academic quality. In addition, its business programs are accredited by the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE). The university consistently appears in national rankings for online education quality and affordability. As a proud member of the University System of Maryland, UMGC upholds the standards of a respected public institution.

Terms and Fees

UMGC offers transparent tuition pricing with no hidden fees. Tuition rates for 2025-2026 are as follows:

Degree LevelTuition Per CreditAvg. Total Tuition (Approx.)
Undergraduate (MD Residents)$330$39,600 (for 120 credits)
Undergraduate (Out-of-State)$499$59,880 (for 120 credits)
Graduate (Most Programs)$514$18,500–$24,000

UMGC also provides reduced rates for active-duty military and their families. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer tuition assistance are available. The school’s no-cost textbook policy applies to nearly all courses, significantly lowering overall expenses.

Help & Support

UMGC offers 24/7 technical support and comprehensive student services. Support options include live chat, email, and phone assistance. Academic advising, career services, and success coaches are available to help students navigate degree planning and graduation goals.

Contact Details:

  • Phone: 855-655-8682

  • Email: undergrad.advisor@umgc.edu, grad.advisor@umgc.edu

  • Hours: 24/7 technical support; advising Monday–Friday 8 a.m.–8 p.m. ET

  • Address: 3501 University Blvd. East, Adelphi, MD 20783 (administrative location).

Visit Site

Bottom Line

UMGC remains one of the most accessible and affordable online universities in the United States. With its strong regional accreditation, zero textbook costs, flexible learning options, and specialized support for military learners and working adults, UMGC continues to deliver an excellent balance between affordability and quality. While doctoral options are limited, its robust catalog of undergraduate and graduate programs, along with its reputation for student support, makes it a reliable choice for career-driven students seeking accredited online degrees.

AI was used in the creation of this content, along with human validation and proofreading.

FAQs
Is UMGC a legitimate university?
Yes. UMGC is a regionally accredited public institution and part of the University System of Maryland. It is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), ensuring academic quality and credibility.
Can I transfer credits to UMGC?
Yes. UMGC accepts up to 90 transfer credits toward a bachelor’s degree or up to 12 credits toward a graduate program. The university partners with numerous community colleges and other institutions to streamline credit evaluation and ensure smooth transitions for transfer students.
Does UMGC have live classes?
Most courses are asynchronous, allowing students to complete assignments at their own pace. However, select programs include optional synchronous sessions for enhanced interaction with instructors and peers.

How do I know I can trust this review?

Top10.com authors, contributors, and editors are serious about research. We combine our own experience with the services we recommend, with reviews that come from verified users–just like you! Together, with reviews from industry experts, we find the Top 10 best products and services to make sure you can choose with confidence and ease.

Top10.com Staff

Top10.com's editorial staff is a professional team of editors and writers with dozens of years of experience covering consumer, financial and business products and services.

Editorial Reviews
SNHU
SNHU
Read Review|Visit Site
Read All Reviews

Must Reads

The Top 8 Reasons Why You Should Attend College Online
Dec 31, 2025
Best Ways to Balance Work, Life, and Education
Dec 31, 2025
How to Pick the Online College Fit to Your Goals
Dec 31, 2025
See all articles