Academics
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore is a mid-sized public research university. Students can explore 38 separate undergraduate degrees, including unique programs in agribusiness, aviation science, and golf management; the university has the only Agricultural Education and Technology Education programs in the state. Numerous programs and centers allow faculty and students to conduct research and development in pivotal industries, including water quality, human health and safety, and sustainability, and UMES collaborates extensively with the University of Maryland College Park via the UM Extension Service and the Agriculture Experiment Station. Other institution partnerships also exist to provide breadth of learning opportunities, including linkage agreements with 18 universities and research institutions in Africa, the Caribbean, and Central America. For students needing academic assistance, the University Writing Center provides one-on-one counseling, as do the tutoring and coaching services offered through the Center for Access and Academic Success.
Career
The campus sits on 620 acres of land in the small historical shore town of Princess Anne, and more than half of all students choose to live on the scenic campus. The Mosely Gallery is dedicated to showcasing the work of students in the UMES Department of Fine Arts academic programs, and Hawk Media (the campus media organization) allows students from all majors to produce content and entertainment through the use of the school’s state-of-the-art audio and video production facilities. There are more than 60 clubs, intramural sports teams, and fraternities and sororities for students to join, and the Student Center offers the relaxation of a bowling alley, billiards area, and lounge/game room. Popular recurring campus activities include SpringFest and Open House, Black History Month Convocation, and Homecoming (which includes a fashion show, concert, comedy, and more). UMES recently adopted the just One Book Program, in which all students on campus, both within and without the classroom, engage in interdisciplinary dialogue about the same book.
Culture
Part of the school’s mission is to provide responsive training to both the needs of the region and state, and centers and programs such as the Rural Development Center, Special Education Programs (teaching), and Hospitality and Tourism Management have all evolved as an answer to these needs. The Career & Professional Development Center arranges internships, job fairs, training workshops, and assistance via Career Ambassadors. Notable alumni include E Street Band saxophonist Clarence Clemons, 2019 Maryland Teacher of the Year Dr. Richard Warren, Jr., and New Jersey state assemblyman Charles Mays.