Welcome, future Policy Terp!
We’re excited to welcome you into our family of fearless changemakers. Please use this website as your guide as you explore everything the School of Public Policy has to offer.
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What's Next?
Are you ready to make it official? Follow these next steps to confirm your enrollment and begin your journey as a Policy Terp!
As a newly admitted UMD student, you and your family are invited to join us for an Admitted Student Open House. During the event, you’ll hear from faculty and staff from your admitted college, and connect with students and campus representatives as you learn more about the university’s special programs and exciting student life.
For more information, explore the events linked below or check out UMD's Undergraduate Admissions page.
Newly admitted students are invited to join us for an in-person Admitted Student Visit Day.
Want to explore all that UMD's campus has to offer without leaving your home?
Take a virtual tour of Maryland's beautiful campus.
Interested in learning more about SPP's student life, research, and career and academic offerings?
Check out SPP's Events page to see upcoming events, and be sure to sign up for any that pique your interest.
You're almost there, Policy Terps! To make your enrollment official, respond to your offer of admission by completing the Decision Form located in your Terps Application Portal. You will also need to submit your enrollment deposit. This nonrefundable, $400 deposit will reserve your place in the incoming class and will be applied to your tuition. It may take up to two business days for your confirmation to be processed.
For more instruction on the enrollment process, check the Admitted Fall Freshman Checklist.
Have questions about the undergraduate program or want to hear more about Public Policy?
Reach out to us at plcyundergrad@umd.edu for more information.
Check out SPP's new home!
Completed in 2022, Thurgood Marshall Hall features an architectural deliberation chamber modeled in the spirit of rooms at the United Nations, spaces for students to gather and engage in spirited discussions and distinguished venues to host local, national and international leaders.
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Why SPP?
The decision is in your hands now - so why should you choose SPP?
Explore the tabs below to learn what makes SPP stand out from other policy schools.
In 2023, the University of Maryland earned its highest-ever ranking among national universities from U.S. News & World Report. UMD rose nine spots to No. 46 in the national listing and held steady at No. 19 among public schools in the influential 2023-24 "Best Colleges" report.
UMD is located close to the heart of national and state politics. Just a short drive from Washington, DC and Annapolis, students have a world of career opportunities available to them at UMD.
We know you want a successful career, and we're here to help you get there!
SPP Career Services is available to you as a student and alum for one-on-one career counseling, group events, internship and fellowship opportunities, mentorship programs, and other opportunities to grow in your career and broaden your network.
Once a Policy Terp, always a Policy Terp!
After four decades, SPP has created an active, diverse and impressive alumni network. As a student and an alum, you'll have the opportunity to connect with other policy professionals and learn and grow as a member of this inclusive community. Alumni help to open doors for current students and their alumni peers by leading events, fostering industry connections and joining the alumni board.
Explore the SPP News page to read spotlights on some of SPP's notable alumni.
Interested in pursuing a graduate degree? Check out SPP's accelerated master's program.
The dual bachelor's with a Master of Public Policy allows you to earn both degrees in less time and is more cost-effective than if you pursued them independently.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
SPP offers financial aid and a variety of scholarships to undergraduate students. Explore some of SPP's many aid offerings below.
Share your exciting news!
Policy Terps are bold problem solvers and fearless changemakers. Share your accomplishment with your friends, family and network!
Use #PolicyTerps and #NowATerp on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter to announce your commitment.