We're committed to educating exceptional students, conducting groundbreaking research, fostering global connections and serving as the state's strongest economic engine.

The university, located just outside Washington, D.C., was founded in 1856 as a private agricultural college and now is the flagship of the state's higher education system. It's home to 12 colleges and schools offering more than 200 academic degrees to 37,000 undergraduate and graduate students.

Our renowned academic community is addressing important scientific and societal challenges, including climate change, the economy, energy, homeland security and public health. We partner with governments, major corporations, nonprofit organizations and educational institutions around the world, and our research brought in a record $545 million in external grants in fiscal year 2010.

The university also cultivates a culture of thriving entrepreneurship, assisting business startups, launching technology ventures and connecting Maryland companies with university resources to help them succeed.

The College Park campus is built around a central mall, anchored by McKeldin Library and the Main Administration Building and surrounded by classroom buildings. In all, we have more than 270 buildings, most of them featuring the red brick and white columns that define Colonial Revival architecture.

This guide will help you explore the campus and learn about Maryland's unique traditions, must-see attractions, student life, recreational activities and much more. Just follow the map to find exactly what interests you.

We're happy you've decided to visit Maryland, and hope to keep you coming back.