University of Maryland Philip Merrill College of Journalism
- Acceptance Rate
- 65.0%
- SAT Range
- 1050–1250
- ACT Range
- N/A
- Avg GPA
- 3.25
- Size
- N/A
- Type
- N/A
- Student:Faculty
- N/A
- Setting
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- Graduation Rate
- N/A
- Retention Rate
- N/A
- Tuition (In-State)
- N/A
- Tuition (Int'l)
- N/A
Student Life & Environment
Students at the Merrill College join a community of aspiring journalists committed to public-service journalism. The college's relatively small size within the large University of Maryland creates an intimate professional school experience with access to broader university resources. Student media organizations, including The Diamondback newspaper and WMUC radio, provide opportunities for journalism practice beyond formal coursework. The College Park campus provides a traditional American university experience with extensive residential options, athletics, recreational facilities, and student organizations. The campus is accessible to Washington, D.C. via Metro, placing the capital's cultural resources, internship opportunities, and news events within easy reach. The combination of campus community and urban access appeals to students seeking both experiences. The Washington area offers one of the world's most significant environments for journalism education. Students can attend press briefings, cover demonstrations, and observe the machinery of government while pursuing their degrees. Networking opportunities abound through journalism organizations, alumni events, and professional conferences frequently held in the capital region. Career services assist students with internship placement, job searches, and professional development. The college's strong alumni network, particularly in Washington-area media, facilitates connections and mentorship. Many students secure positions before graduation through internship conversions or alumni referrals.
Location & Surroundings
The Philip Merrill College of Journalism is housed in Knight Hall on the University of Maryland campus in College Park, approximately eight miles from downtown Washington, D.C. The campus is accessible by Metro's Green Line, connecting students to the capital's news organizations, government buildings, and cultural institutions. This location distinguishes Maryland from journalism schools in smaller cities, providing daily access to national-level reporting opportunities. The College Park area offers a typical college town environment with restaurants, shops, and entertainment catering to the university community. Housing options include on-campus dormitories, university apartments, and off-campus rentals in surrounding neighborhoods. The cost of living is moderate by Washington metro area standards, though higher than in many other college towns. The Washington, D.C. metropolitan area features a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, while winters bring occasional snow and temperatures below freezing. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather ideal for exploring the region's parks, monuments, and outdoor spaces. Cherry blossom season in spring draws visitors from worldwide. Transportation options include Metro rail and bus service, with many students relying on public transit for travel between campus and Washington. Car ownership is useful but not essential given transit options. Three major airports serve the region, with Reagan National providing convenient access to destinations throughout the country.
Costs & Career Outcomes
Tuition at the University of Maryland follows state university rates, with Maryland residents paying approximately $11,000 annually and non-residents approximately $38,000 for undergraduate programs. Graduate tuition varies by program and residency. Students should budget additional amounts for fees, housing, meals, books, and personal expenses. Total annual costs range from approximately $28,000 for in-state undergraduates to $58,000 for out-of-state students. Financial aid includes university scholarships, journalism-specific awards, and federal student aid. The college offers scholarships funded by media organizations, alumni, and journalism foundations. Graduate assistantships provide tuition remission and stipends for students who assist with research, teaching, or news service operations. Work-study positions and part-time employment help students manage expenses. Career outcomes for Merrill College graduates are strong, with alumni working at major news organizations, digital media companies, corporate communications departments, and government agencies. The Washington location facilitates job placement, particularly in political journalism, federal affairs coverage, and nonprofit communications. Median starting salaries for journalism graduates vary by sector, typically ranging from $35,000-50,000, with potential for significant advancement in senior roles. The college's career services office provides individual counseling, job listings, networking events, and professional development programming. Alumni mentoring programs connect students with working journalists who provide guidance and introductions. The combination of strong training, capital location, and active alumni network positions graduates well in competitive media markets.
Campus Location
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