University of Maryland Eastern Shore Profile

The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES) is a distinguished institution located in Princess Anne, Maryland, which has played an important role in providing higher education to African Americans and contributing to the broader landscape of academic development in the United States.

Established in 1886 as the Delaware Conference Academy, UMES has evolved into a comprehensive institution that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university’s status as a historically black college and its designation as a land-grant institution set it apart as a unique educational hub, offering specialized programs and services that meet the needs of a diverse student body. UMES is a part of the University System of Maryland, and its commitment to educational excellence is reflected in its various accreditation and achievements.

One of the notable aspects of UMES is its academic structure, which is divided into several schools designed to meet the needs of students pursuing a broad spectrum of fields. These schools include the School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences, the School of The Arts and Professions, the School of Business and Technology, the School of Graduate Studies, and the School of Pharmacy and Health Professions. Each school offers a distinct set of programs that not only meet the educational needs of the students but also align with the university’s broader mission of promoting academic rigor, research, and professional development.

The School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences at UMES is a leader in the study of environmental sciences, agricultural sciences, and related fields. As a land-grant institution, UMES has a long-standing tradition of offering programs that support the agricultural industry, environmental sustainability, and the scientific study of the natural world. Students in this school can explore topics such as animal science, plant science, natural resources management, and environmental studies. The school is committed to providing students with the theoretical foundation and practical skills necessary to succeed in these growing fields. The emphasis on research and hands-on learning opportunities prepares graduates for careers in agriculture, environmental consulting, and policy, among other fields.

The School of The Arts and Professions at UMES offers programs that bridge the gap between the creative arts and professional careers. This school offers degrees in fields such as music, theatre, and mass communication. The programs in this school are designed to provide students with the artistic and technical skills required to excel in various professional arenas. Additionally, the school focuses on fostering creativity, critical thinking, and communication skills, all of which are essential for students pursuing careers in the arts or related fields such as media and entertainment. By offering a multidisciplinary approach, the school prepares students for a wide array of careers in the creative industries, education, and cultural organizations.

The School of Business and Technology is another cornerstone of UMES, offering a variety of programs in fields such as business administration, information technology, construction management, and engineering technology. The School of Business and Technology is dedicated to providing students with a solid foundation in the core principles of business while also offering specialized programs that prepare them for careers in technology-driven industries. The school’s accreditation from the American Council for Construction Education (ACCE) for its Construction Management Technology Program, along with its focus on providing students with a comprehensive understanding of both business and technology, makes it a vital part of UMES’s educational offerings. Graduates of the school often go on to work in business management, information systems, engineering, and other rapidly evolving fields.

The School of Graduate Studies at UMES offers a diverse range of graduate programs that cater to students seeking advanced education in specialized fields. Some of the programs available include Master’s degrees in Marine-Estuarine and Environmental Sciences, Toxicology, Applied Computer Science, Agricultural and Extension Education, Physical Education, Special Education, and Guidance and Counseling. The graduate programs at UMES are designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills required for leadership roles in their respective fields. Many of these programs offer unique interdisciplinary approaches that allow students to engage in cutting-edge research and hands-on experiences. UMES is committed to providing its graduate students with opportunities to conduct meaningful research, collaborate with faculty and professionals, and contribute to their field of study.

In addition to these schools, the School of Pharmacy and Health Professions is one of the most prominent divisions at UMES. The School of Pharmacy offers a Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.) program and is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Pharmacy Education (ACPE). This program is designed to prepare students for a career in pharmacy, providing them with the expertise to excel in a fast-paced and ever-evolving healthcare industry. The university also offers other health-related programs such as physical therapy and health professions programs, which are designed to prepare students for careers in healthcare and related industries. The Pharmacy and Health Professions programs are highly regarded and help the university meet the growing demand for healthcare professionals in Maryland and beyond.

UMES’s commitment to academic rigor is reflected in its accreditation by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools, which ensures that the institution meets the high standards required for higher education. Furthermore, the university’s Teacher Education Program has been accredited by the National Council for Accreditation of Teacher Education (NCATE), further emphasizing UMES’s dedication to producing high-quality educators. The university also has programs that are fully accredited by specialized accrediting bodies, such as the Accreditation Review Commission on Education for the Physician Assistant, Inc. (ARC-PA) for its Physician Assistant Department. These accreditations ensure that UMES students receive an education that meets the highest professional and academic standards, and that graduates are well-prepared for licensure and certification in their respective fields.

UMES’s efforts to serve a diverse student body extend beyond academics, as the university has a longstanding commitment to providing access to higher education for underrepresented populations. As a historically black college, UMES continues to play a vital role in educating African American students, while also welcoming students from diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds. The university’s rich history and commitment to social mobility have contributed to its role as a cornerstone of the local and regional community.

The impact of UMES on its students and alumni is exemplified by the success of its graduates in various professional fields. Notable alumni include former NFL players such as Emerson Boozer, Carl Hairston, Art Shell, and Billy Thompson. These individuals have gone on to achieve success at the highest levels of professional sports, and their success serves as a testament to the university’s ability to foster talent, leadership, and perseverance in its students.

In terms of rankings, UMES is consistently recognized for its excellence as a regional university. In 2012, U.S. News & World Report ranked the university in Tier 2 among Regional Universities (North). This ranking reflects UMES’s continued commitment to providing quality education and its growing reputation within the higher education landscape. Although UMES is still working to expand its academic influence and reach, this recognition affirms the strides the university has made in offering a comprehensive, high-quality educational experience for its students.

In conclusion, the University of Maryland Eastern Shore is an institution that combines a rich history with a forward-looking commitment to academic excellence. With a strong focus on research, community engagement, and specialized professional programs, UMES continues to make a significant impact on its students and the broader region. Through its unique combination of historical significance and modern academic offerings, the university provides students with the tools they need to succeed in an ever-changing world. The ongoing success of UMES’s alumni and its role in providing educational opportunities for diverse populations make it a vital institution in the state of Maryland and beyond.