DEEPCOLLEGES · OPS · v3.3 SCHOOLS·INDEXED 120 SOURCES IPEDS · CDS · SCORECARD LAST·SYNC 2026.04.29

Best Colleges in Maryland: Ranked by Value & Outcomes

Ranked by graduate outcomes and value — not prestige.

Top Colleges in Maryland

#1
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD · Private
7.6%
accept
$87,555
Salary (10yr)
#2
University of Maryland
College Park, MD · Public
44.8%
accept
$82,860
Salary (10yr)

FAQs about colleges in Maryland

How many colleges are in Maryland ranked on this page?
This guide ranks 2 colleges in Maryland by graduate salary outcomes, acceptance rate, and net cost of attendance — using public US Department of Education College Scorecard and IPEDS data.
What is the hardest college to get into in Maryland?
Johns Hopkins University has the lowest acceptance rate among Maryland colleges on this list at 7.6%. Reach for it only if your GPA, test scores, and extracurriculars are well above the school's median.
Which Maryland college has the highest graduate salary?
Johns Hopkins University graduates earn the highest median 10-year salary among Maryland colleges on this list, at $87,555. Major choice impacts earnings far more than school choice — pick based on intended career, not just school median.
Should I stay in Maryland for college?
In-state public colleges in Maryland typically charge significantly less tuition than out-of-state students pay, so staying in-state can cut costs dramatically. Private colleges in Maryland charge the same regardless of state residency. Compare net cost (not sticker) for your family income to decide.
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Data source: IPEDS, College Scorecard.