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Choosing a small college can offer numerous advantages—personalized education, close-knit communities, and often lower costs. As students increasingly seek alternatives to large universities, small colleges in Maryland present unique opportunities for academic success and career readiness.
So, which small college in Maryland stands out as the best in 2026?
At Zippia, we analyzed data from the 12 higher education institutions in the Old Line State with enrollments under 2,000 students. We focused on metrics that reflect the overall student experience, including academic performance, career outcomes, and financial considerations.
After thorough analysis, we present the top small colleges in Maryland:
- St. Mary’s College of Maryland
- Notre Dame of Maryland University
- Capitol Technology University
- Mount St. Mary’s University
- Washington Adventist University
- Goucher College
- McDaniel College
- Washington College
- Hood College
- Maryland Institute College of Art
If you’re attending one of these institutions, you’re likely already aware of the exceptional educational experiences they offer. For those considering their options, let’s delve into what makes these schools among the best in Maryland.
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Methodology for Ranking the Best Small Colleges in Maryland
To determine the best small colleges, we employed an analytical approach similar to that of an economics major, utilizing performance data to compare institutions.
Our evaluation was based on data from the NCES (National Center for Education Statistics) and College Scorecard data from ED.gov, focusing on the following key factors:
- Career Outcomes
- Mean Earnings After 6 Years
- Mean Earnings After 10 Years
- Employment Ratio After 10 Years
- Institutional Performance
- Admissions Rate (More selective is better)
- Graduation Rate
- Average Cost of Attendance (Lower is better)
- Average Debt Upon Graduation
Our analysis underscores the value of attending a selective institution that fosters strong career prospects.
With this data, we ranked the 12 Maryland institutions with populations under 2,000 students across the aforementioned criteria, assigning each school a score. The institution with the highest average score, St. Mary’s College of Maryland, earned the title of ‘Best Small College’ in the state.
1. St. Mary’s College of Maryland
Enrollment: 1,547
Located in St. Mary’s City, MD, St. Mary’s College of Maryland consistently ranks as the top small college in the state. Graduates report the 7th highest salaries among small colleges in Maryland, even a decade post-graduation. With a 78% admission rate and the second lowest tuition costs, it offers excellent value.
2. Notre Dame of Maryland University
Enrollment: 1,930
Situated in Baltimore, Notre Dame of Maryland University is known for its affordability, ranking as the 5th lowest cost small college in the state. With a competitive admission rate and a commendable graduation rate, it offers a strong academic environment.
3. Capitol Technology University
Enrollment: 684
Capitol Technology University in Laurel is well-regarded for its focused programs and career-oriented education. It boasts a graduation rate of 41% and an admission rate of 70%, both ranking among the best in the state.
4. Mount St. Mary’s University
Enrollment: 1,500
Located in Emmitsburg, Mount St. Mary’s University excels in both its low admission rate and high graduation rate, making it a desirable choice for prospective students. It also offers competitive tuition rates.
5. Washington Adventist University
Enrollment: 1,030
Washington Adventist University in Takoma Park is known for its personalized attention and supportive community. Graduates from this institution tend to command impressive salaries, making it a strong contender for students seeking both quality education and career outcomes.
6. Goucher College
Enrollment: 1,193
Goucher College in Baltimore is recognized for its reasonable tuition and strong post-graduation earnings, with alumni ranking 9th highest in income in the state.
7. McDaniel College
Enrollment: 1,610
McDaniel College in Westminster boasts a 76% acceptance rate, indicating its high demand among applicants. Graduates enjoy the 5th highest salaries in the state and a graduation rate that ranks 6th among small colleges.
8. Washington College
Enrollment: 1,165
Located in a picturesque area of Maryland, Washington College combines scenic surroundings with excellent academic metrics, including the 12th lowest debt for graduates and the 6th highest salaries.
9. Hood College
Enrollment: 855
Hood College in Frederick is known for its supportive learning environment, highlighted by high graduation rates and competitive salaries for graduates.
10. Maryland Institute College of Art
Enrollment: 1,588
The Maryland Institute College of Art is a premier private institution with a selective admission rate of 54%. It ranks as the 11th least expensive small college in the state, providing an excellent education in the arts.
As you consider your options for higher education, these small colleges in Maryland offer not only strong academic programs but also significant career potential. Whether you value personalized attention or excellent job outcomes, these institutions are well-equipped to help you achieve your goals.
Author
Chris Kolmar is a co-founder of Zippia and the editor-in-chief of the Zippia career advice blog. He has hired over 50 people in his career, been hired five times, and wants to help you land your next job. His research has been featured on the New York Times, Thrillist, VOX, The Atlantic, and a host of local news. More recently, he's been quoted on USA Today, BusinessInsider, and CNBC.
