University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) Online Degrees Review 2026
January 7, 2026
•
2 min
Years operating
Since 1947
Variety of degrees
135+ online, skills-based degrees and certificates
Tuition
Varies by program. umgc.edu/tuition.
Is University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) Worth It?
University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is a leading public online university designed for working adults, servicemembers, and transfer students seeking affordable, flexible education. Founded in 1947, UMGC offers 135+ online, skills-based programs across associate, bachelor’s, and master’s levels. The university is committed to affordability and provides no-cost digital materials in place of textbooks for most courses. Plus, their multiple start dates and transfer-friendly credit policies make it easy to get started whenever you’re ready. Accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, UMGC is a dependable option for learners seeking accredited, flexible degrees.
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 at a Glance
9
Editorial ScoreYears 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
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
- Apply now. (Be sure to review our undergraduate and graduate admission requirements)
Work with an advisor to identify the right degree or certificate program, evaluate transfer credits, and explore payment options or financial aid opportunities.
Select your start date and begin building your future with UMGC’s flexible, fully online learning environment.
Accreditation & Recognition
University of Maryland Global Campus (UMGC) is a member of the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE), which is recognized by the U.S. Secretary of Education to conduct accreditation and pre-accreditation activities for institutions of higher education throughout the United States. MSCHE last reaffirmed UMGC’s accreditation status on June 23, 2015. UMGC is a constituent institution of the University System of Maryland and is governed by the USM Board of Regents. UMGC is certified to operate in Virginia by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia. University of Maryland Global Campus, 9625 Belvoir Road, Barden Education Center, Building 1017, Room 128, Fort Belvoir, VA 22060.
Terms and Fees
UMGC offers transparent tuition pricing. Tuition rates through spring 2026 are as follows:
| Program Level | Tuition Per Credit | Avg. Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|
| Undergraduate (In-State /Maryland Residents) | $330 | $39,600 (for 120 credits) |
| Undergraduate (Out-of-State) | $499 | $59,880 (for 120 credits) |
| Undergraduate (Military) | $250 | $30,000 (for 120 credits) |
| Graduate (Most Programs, In-State) | $544 | Total graduate tuition costs vary by program. |
| Graduate (Most Programs, Out-of-State) | $659 | |
| Graduate (Specialty) | $694 | |
| Graduate (Military) | $336 |
UMGC also provides reduced rates for active-duty military and eligible spouses and dependent children. Financial aid, scholarships for those who qualify, and an interest-free payment plan can help make your education more affordable. Plus, most courses use no-cost digital materials instead of textbooks, significantly lowering overall expenses. For the most up-to-date tuition and fees and eligibility details, please visit www.umgc.edu/tuition.
Help & Support
UMGC offers comprehensive student services and technical support. 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 (advising); 888-360-8682 (technical support)
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).
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.
FAQsIs 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 master’s degree. UMGC awards credit for prior coursework, exams, certifications, and military experience and training, and has been recognized as the #1 public university for transfer students.
Does UMGC have live classes?
Most courses are asynchronous, meaning students complete assignments online by set due dates. Students do not have set times to log on. However, select hybrid courses are offered, and these include live, on-site course meetings.
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