10 Best Community Colleges in Maryland

Key Takeaways

• Maryland’s community colleges provide high-quality education for around $4,000 to $5,000 per year for in-state students
• Guaranteed transfer agreements with top schools like the University of Maryland system make it easy to continue your education
• Career-focused programs are designed to match Maryland’s economy, including government, healthcare, cybersecurity, and biotech
• Small class sizes, flexible scheduling, and strong student support services make these colleges ideal for traditional and adult learners
• Whether your goal is university transfer or direct entry into the workforce, these colleges offer accessible, affordable options

Why Should You Consider Community Colleges in Maryland?

Maryland’s community colleges are an excellent choice if you’re hoping to start your college journey without taking on heavy debt. Most schools charge between $4,000 and $5,000 per year for in-state tuition, which is significantly lower than four-year universities. You’ll still get high-quality instruction, modern facilities, and strong student support.

These colleges also offer some of the best transfer options in the region. Many have guaranteed admission agreements with the University of Maryland system and other state schools, so you can start locally and finish your degree at a top university.

For students looking to go straight into the workforce, Maryland’s community colleges provide hands-on training in key industries like healthcare, cybersecurity, government services, and biotechnology. These programs are built to align with real employer needs, so you’ll be ready for the job market when you graduate.

With locations across the state and a mix of online, evening, and in-person classes, it’s easy to find a college that works with your schedule. Whether you’re just out of high school or making a mid-career change, Maryland’s community colleges offer the flexibility and value you need to move forward.

10 Best Community Colleges in Maryland

Maryland is home to an excellent community college network that balances affordability with strong academic and career pathways. Whether you’re aiming to transfer to a four-year university or jump directly into the workforce, these institutions provide top-tier education in locations ranging from coastal communities to urban centers. With specialized programs in fields like cybersecurity, healthcare, and biotechnology, Maryland’s best community colleges are tailored to support your personal and professional goals.

Frederick Community College

Located in historic Frederick County, Frederick Community College combines low tuition with a strategic location just 50 miles from Washington, DC and Baltimore.

Main Courses

Cybersecurity, healthcare, business administration, and STEM transfer programs.

Pros

• Small class sizes with personalized instruction
• Strong transfer agreements with Maryland universities
• Proximity to major employers in biotech and government

Cons

• Limited public transportation options

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $3,840

Carroll Community College

Serving the Carroll County region, Carroll Community College offers a personalized education at a competitive price on a scenic campus in Westminster.

Main Courses

Nursing, business, cybersecurity, and theater.

Pros

• Intimate campus with strong academic support
• Well-established transfer pathways to Maryland four-year universities

Cons

• Rural setting limits public transit and housing options

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $4,580

Chesapeake College

Chesapeake College serves Maryland’s Eastern Shore with affordable tuition and programs tailored to the region’s economy.

Main Courses

Nursing, skilled trades, sustainable agriculture, and hospitality.

Pros

• Beautiful rural campus with strong community ties
• Programs reflect local workforce needs

Cons

• Remote location limits internship access and commuting options

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $5,090

The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC)

CCBC operates six campuses across the greater Baltimore area, offering a wide range of academic and technical programs.

Main Courses

Healthcare, aviation technology, criminal justice, and manufacturing technology.

Pros

• Multiple campuses with broad program offerings
• Diverse student population and strong employer connections

Cons

• A large system can feel impersonal
• Navigating between campuses may be challenging

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $6,780

Wor-Wic Community College

Located on Maryland’s Lower Eastern Shore, Wor-Wic Community College offers career and transfer programs aligned with regional economic needs.

Main Courses

Criminal justice, hospitality, nursing, and radiologic technology.

Pros

• Modern campus facilities
• Strong relationships with Ocean City employers
• Small class sizes and personalized instruction

Cons

• Remote location limits access to some amenities and specialty programs

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $7,385

Montgomery College

Serving Maryland’s most populous county, Montgomery College offers extensive academic options across its Rockville, Germantown, and Takoma Park campuses.

Main Courses

Engineering, biotechnology, visual arts, nursing, and cybersecurity.

Pros

• Diverse international student community
• Strong transfer rates to top universities
• Metrorail access at the Rockville campus

Cons

• Large student body creates competition for popular programs

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $8,660

Harford Community College

Located in northeastern Maryland, Harford Community College offers scenic surroundings and career-driven programs with close industry ties.

Main Courses

Nursing, engineering, business, and environmental technology.

Pros

• Picturesque 352-acre campus
• Close partnerships with Aberdeen Proving Ground
• Strong articulation agreements with regional universities

Cons

• Limited public transportation access

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $9,855

Howard Community College

Based in Columbia, Howard Community College stands out for its academic excellence and location between Baltimore and Washington, DC.

Main Courses

Cybersecurity, health sciences, business, and the Silas Craft Collegians program.

Pros

• Award-winning campus design
• Extensive student support services
• Central location with access to major job markets

Cons

• Higher tuition compared to other Maryland community colleges
• The cost of living in the area may be high for some students

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $10,650

Cecil College

Cecil College serves students in Maryland’s northeast corner with close ties to employers in both Maryland and Delaware.

Main Courses

Visual communications, transportation logistics, healthcare, and engineering technology.

Pros

• Personalized instruction and small campus feel
• Strong local scholarship support
• Close-knit academic community

Cons

• Higher tuition compared to regional peers
• Fewer campus amenities due to smaller size

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $11,095

Anne Arundel Community College

Consistently ranked among the top community colleges nationwide, Anne Arundel offers exceptional programs on its comprehensive campus near Annapolis.

Main Courses

Homeland security, cybersecurity, hotel management, and entrepreneurship.

Pros

• Nationally recognized faculty and programs
• Strong employer connections in the Baltimore-Washington corridor
• State-of-the-art campus facilities

Cons

• Significantly higher tuition than other community colleges in the state

Average Annual In-State Tuition: $15,740

Key Requirements for Enrolling in the Best Community Colleges in Maryland

Before you can start classes, you’ll need to complete a few standard steps to enroll at a Maryland community college. These schools are designed to be accessible, but they still require certain documents and placements to help you succeed from day one.

High School Diploma Verification

Most Maryland community colleges require proof of a high school diploma or equivalent (such as a GED). Many also offer dual enrollment options for high school students who want to earn college credit early.

Maryland Application Submission

You’ll need to apply directly through each college’s website or a Maryland-specific portal. Application fees are typically modest, around $15–$25, and may be waived during recruitment periods or based on financial need.

Placement Assessment Completion

Even though Maryland has moved away from blanket testing, many colleges still use ACCUPLACER or review your high school transcripts to place you in the right level for math and English courses.

How Do Maryland Community College Costs Compare to National Averages?

Maryland community colleges are slightly more affordable than the national average. In-state students usually pay between $4,000 and $5,000 per year, which is well below the cost of attending a four-year public university in the state.

Plus, Maryland offers some of the strongest state-level financial aid programs in the country. With grants like the Promise Scholarship and local aid options, many students can cut their out-of-pocket expenses significantly. And because you’re often studying close to home, you can also save on housing and commuting costs.

What Are the Tuition Fees for International Students at Community Colleges in Maryland?

If you’re an international student, Maryland’s community colleges still offer a more affordable path than most universities. Expect to pay between $8,000 and $12,000 annually in tuition. That’s much lower than what most four-year schools in the U.S. charge international students.

Some colleges offer scholarships or on-campus work opportunities to help offset the cost. Just remember to budget for other required expenses too, like health insurance (around $1,500–$2,000), visa processing fees, and the cost of living in your area.

How Does University of the People Compare with the Best Community Colleges in Maryland?

While Maryland’s community colleges offer excellent regional value, the University of the People provides a fully online, tuition-free alternative. Instead of charging per-credit tuition, UoPeople requires only an application fee and modest assessment fees per course, which total around $5,000 for an entire bachelor’s degree.

The University of the People is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and also holds WASC accreditation, ensuring credibility. In contrast, Maryland’s community colleges are regionally accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, which can carry more weight when transferring credits within traditional U.S. institutions.

If you’re looking for maximum flexibility, UoPeople’s asynchronous model lets you study anywhere in the world, on your own schedule. Maryland community colleges offer online and hybrid classes, too, but they often follow more traditional semester calendars and may require occasional in-person attendance or exams.

Ready to Choose the Best Community College?

Choosing the right Maryland community college depends on more than just price. You’ll want to consider which schools offer strong programs in your field, whether you plan to transfer to a four-year university, and what type of support services you’ll need along the way.

Explore your options carefully. Reach out to admissions offices, speak with current students, and consider visiting campuses in person. Keep an eye on each college’s graduation and transfer rates, scholarship opportunities, and ties to local employers. A well-informed decision today can set you up for long-term academic and professional success.

FAQs

What is the cheapest community college in Maryland?

Frederick Community College is one of the most affordable, with in-state tuition around $3,840 per year.

Can high school students attend Maryland community colleges?

Yes, most Maryland community colleges offer dual enrollment programs that allow high school students to take college courses for credit.

Do Maryland community colleges offer online degree programs?

Many do. While offerings vary, most schools provide flexible online or hybrid options for popular programs like business, nursing, and general studies.

Are Maryland community colleges open to international students?

Yes, most colleges welcome international applicants and offer dedicated support services. Tuition is higher for non-residents, but still more affordable than four-year universities.

Which Maryland community colleges have the highest transfer rates?

Montgomery College, Anne Arundel Community College, and Howard Community College consistently report strong transfer rates to four-year institutions.

What financial aid is available at Maryland community colleges?

Maryland offers several aid options, including the Promise Scholarship, Educational Assistance Grant, and institutional scholarships. Completing the FAFSA is the first step to accessing them.