Best Business Schools in Maryland – 2025 Accredited Colleges & Programs

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Maryland hosts diverse business schools offering comprehensive education and business management training. Hence, graduates from business schools in Maryland can earn an average of $160,590 yearly as finance managers (Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2022). This only goes to show how lucrative pursuing business education is in the Old Line State.

Meanwhile, students wondering what to do with business management degree can rest assured that a wide range of jobs awaits them. They can be project managers, fundraisers, management analysts, and more. That is because business degree graduates possess the skills to make an organization cohesive and monitor efficiency in operations.

As the demand for business professionals continues to rise, the significance of Maryland business schools becomes increasingly evident. Hence, our research team collected vital information from credible sources to help students decide whether a business degree in the Old Line State is worth it.

Best Business Schools in Maryland Table of Contents

Is Maryland good for business majors?
What are the key business sectors in Maryland?
Business Program Length in Maryland
Tuition and Costs of Business Schools in Maryland
Accounting Opportunities for Business Graduates in Maryland
Maryland Schools Offering Business Programs for 2025
Can Business Graduates Leverage Their Skills for Interdisciplinary Careers?
What are the admission requirements for Maryland business schools?
What You Will Learn in a Business Administration Major
What is the return on investment of a Maryland business degree?
Can Business Graduates Successfully Transition into Counseling Roles?
How Are Emerging Technologies Reshaping Maryland Business Programs?
How can legal expertise enhance business strategy in Maryland?
Can Forensic Science Strengthen Business Integrity in Maryland?
Can Business Expertise Enhance Success in Regulated Healthcare Sectors?
What to Look for in Business Schools in Maryland
What Other Career Paths Are Available to Business Graduates in Maryland?
Can Interdisciplinary Studies Enhance a Business Degree in Maryland?

Is Maryland good for business majors?

Graduating from accredited business schools in Maryland gives students a broad skill set they can use across various industries and sectors. Hence, they can pursue some of the most in-demand occupations like financial managers, management analysts, or general managers.

Being a business school graduate also entails having a potential annual income ranging from $54,600 to $90,00, depending on their job role (Maryland Department of Labor, n.d.). That is at least double the state’s minimum yearly income.

Meanwhile, at least 1% of graduates from the best business schools in Maryland opted to start a business (University of Maryland, 2022). However, many business owners do not perceive the Old Line State as business-friendly. The state received a B- when it comes to training and networking programs for entrepreneurs and for ease of starting a business (Thumbtack, 2022). Business school graduates may consider relocating to a state wherein starting a business and looking for funds is easier.

What are the key business sectors in Maryland?

Maryland's economy is driven by several key sectors that offer robust opportunities for business professionals. Among these are:

Technology and Cybersecurity: Maryland's growing tech hub offers career opportunities in software development, cybersecurity, and data analysis, especially in areas like Bethesda and Columbia.
Healthcare and Biotechnology: The state is home to major hospitals, research institutes, and biotech companies, making the healthcare and biotech sectors prominent.
Government and Defense: Maryland's proximity to Washington, D.C., fuels demand for business professionals in the defense, logistics, and government contracting sectors.
Education and Research: Universities and research institutions, like Johns Hopkins, contribute to a strong academic environment, fostering innovation and business collaboration.
Tourism and Hospitality: Maryland's rich cultural heritage and tourism industry, from the Chesapeake Bay to Baltimore, provides business opportunities in hospitality and related sectors.

Business Program Length in Maryland

Many of the business-related occupations require a bachelor’s degree. This begs the question, how long does it take to get a bachelor’s degree in business?

A business degree from the best universities in Maryland typically takes four years to complete. Graduates can then seek employment, take MBA programs in Maryland, or start their business.

Students who want to fast-track their careers can enroll in business schools in Maryland that offer accelerated programs. Doing so allows them to earn their degrees in less than four years. On the other hand, students who want to study multiple fields can opt for dual degree programs.

Meanwhile, aspiring entrepreneurs do not technically need a degree from business schools in Maryland. Although it can be helpful, only 28.8% of business owners have a bachelor’s degree (Kauffman Foundation, 2020).

Tuition and Costs of Business Schools in Maryland

A bachelor’s degree in business can cost between $7,848 and $52,481 (National Center for Education Statistics, 2023). The tuition and fees vary based on the type of business schools in Maryland, the number of credit hours students can take per semester, and whether they are state residents.

For instance, Maryland public universities can charge at least $7,000 for state residents, while out-of-state students have to shell out at least $12,000. Choosing whether to take a business management degree vs. business administration can also affect the program’s cost. That is because the programs differ in scope and focus, which means there will be various courses students can take.

Business administration programs focus on organizational operations and activities. As such, business schools in Maryland may offer finance, entrepreneurship, and operations courses. On the other hand, business management focuses on operational and leadership skills. Students can take strategic planning, organizational behavior, and human resource management courses to further reinforce their skill set.

In-state

Out-of-State

Public

$8,748

$19,470

Private Non-profit

$26,308

$27,004

Private For-profit

$48,814

$52,481

Maryland Schools Offering Business Programs for 2025

Our review experts at Research.com collected valuable information from credible sources and listed the following business schools in Maryland. Their programs were evaluated based on affordability, academic rating, enrollment rate, and other key metrics.

1. University of Baltimore

Students who want to make their mark in business may want to enroll at the University of Baltimore. The university offers a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, where they can learn about core business elements like accounting, information systems management, and marketing. Moreover, students can choose a BSBA specialization or accelerated pathway to graduate degrees.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Entrepreneurship, human resource management, and marketing
Cost per credit: $310 (Maryland resident), $881 (Non-resident)
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

2. Salisbury University

The Bachelor of Science in Management from Salisbury University equips students to navigate the business industry effectively. What makes this program unique is the Applied Business Learning Experience (ABLE) internship. This is where students can work with organizations in the community to practice what they learned in the classroom.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Economics, accounting, statistics, organizational behavior, and human resource management
Cost per credit: $443 (Maryland resident), $888 (Non-resident)
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education

3. Hood College

The Hood College promises that students taking their Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration will be empowered to think entrepreneurially. It is one of the many business schools in Maryland that offers a program focused on making a societal impact. Thus, graduates can become thought leaders in reshaping and innovating modern businesses.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Marketing, accounting, finance, human resource management
Cost per credit: $940
Required Credits to Graduate: 124
Accreditation: Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs

4. Morgan State University

Taking a Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurship from Morgan State University teaches students about the role of business in economic development. They will learn how to create new ventures, identify and leverage entrepreneurial opportunities, and interrelationships of business functions. They will graduate with the knowledge of overcoming the challenges of entrepreneurship.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Evidence-based entrepreneurship, economics, finance, and organizational behavior
Cost per credit: $232 (Maryland resident), $677 (Non-resident)
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

5. Frostburg State University

Students of Bachelor of Science in Business Administration at Frostburg State University are expected to learn how to navigate a demanding business environment. This includes marketing new ideas and analyzing established business practices. Thus, they can contribute their skills in problem-solving and uncovering a business’s hidden potential.

Program Length: Four years
Tracks/concentrations: Marketing, finance, human resource management, and entrepreneurship
Cost per credit: $237 (Maryland resident), $743 (Non-resident)
Required Credits to Graduate: 120
Accreditation: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business

Accounting Opportunities for Business Graduates in Maryland

Accounting plays a pivotal role in the business landscape, and Maryland's robust educational infrastructure provides aspiring accountants with pathways to excel in this field. For business graduates interested in accounting, the state boasts a thriving ecosystem of opportunities, from public accounting firms to corporate financial departments.

One of the primary considerations for graduates aiming to break into this field is becoming a Certified Public Accountant (CPA). The CPA credential not only enhances credibility but also opens doors to lucrative career paths. Maryland business schools often integrate accounting courses within their curricula, helping students build a foundation in financial reporting, auditing, tax regulations, and ethical business practices. These programs prepare graduates for the CPA exam and the demands of the profession.

For those looking for specific guidance on how to become a CPA in Maryland, educational resources can provide a comprehensive overview of the best accounting schools in the state and the steps necessary for CPA certification.

Additionally, Maryland's proximity to Washington, D.C., cultivates a unique job market featuring opportunities in governmental accounting, policy consulting, and federal contracts. Business graduates leveraging accounting expertise in these sectors often find themselves at the forefront of financial decision-making and economic development.

By stepping into the accounting field, business graduates can not only ensure financial compliance but also drive organizational growth and strategy. This specialization underscores the value of multidisciplinary skills acquired through Maryland's business programs while aligning graduates with high-demand career paths in the state.

Can Business Graduates Leverage Their Skills for Interdisciplinary Careers?

In today’s dynamic job market, combining business proficiency with specialized disciplines can open unique career opportunities. For example, integrating strategic management with emerging healthcare trends creates a niche where analytical, financial, and operational skills drive industry innovation. Graduates looking to diversify their expertise might explore pathways in fields such as nutrition, examining practical steps outlined on how to become a nutritionist in Maryland. This interdisciplinary approach not only broadens professional horizons but also reinforces the ability to navigate sector-specific challenges while sustaining a competitive edge across varied industries.

What are the admission requirements for Maryland business schools?

Maryland business schools typically evaluate candidates through a combination of academic records, standardized test scores, professional recommendations, and personal statements. Applicants are expected to submit verified transcripts and may need to complete additional assessments or interviews as part of a competitive screening process. Several institutions also offer pathways for non-traditional applicants, including alternative entry options for those interested in pursuing an easiest business major. Prospective students are advised to review specific program criteria and deadlines on individual institution websites to ensure they meet all enrollment standards.

What You Will Learn in a Business Administration Major

Is business administration a hard major? It has its challenges but this major equips you with a diverse skillset applicable to various industries. This broad-based approach provides a strong foundation for navigating the complex world of business. Here's a glimpse into some key skills you'll develop:

Communication: Business administration programs emphasize effective written and verbal communication skills. You'll learn to articulate complex ideas clearly, present your findings persuasively, and collaborate effectively with diverse teams.
Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving: Business environments require a keen ability to analyze situations, identify problems, and develop innovative solutions. Through case studies, simulations, and real-world projects, you'll hone your critical thinking skills and learn to approach challenges with a strategic mindset.
Data Analysis and Interpretation: Businesses rely heavily on data to make informed decisions. You'll develop skills in data analysis, quantitative methods, and interpreting data visualizations. This allows you to extract insights and present them in a way that informs decision-making.
Leadership and Teamwork: Business administration programs emphasize teamwork and leadership skills. Through group projects and presentations, you'll learn how to collaborate effectively with diverse personalities, delegate tasks efficiently, and motivate others towards a common goal.
Financial Literacy: Understanding financial principles is crucial for any business professional. You'll gain a strong foundation in accounting, finance, and financial management, enabling you to analyze financial statements, make informed investment decisions, and understand the financial health of an organization.
Marketing and Business Development: Whether launching a startup or working for an established company, marketing and business development skills are essential. You'll learn about marketing strategies, market research, consumer behavior, and how to develop successful business plans.

By mastering these core skills, business administration graduates are well-positioned for success in a wide range of careers. This versatile skillset can be applied to areas like finance, marketing, human resources, operations, and management.

What is the return on investment of a Maryland business degree?

Evaluating the return on investment involves a careful analysis of tuition costs, available financial aid, and projected earnings over time. Prospective students should compare program fees and scholarship opportunities with potential salary trajectories, considering both immediate post-graduation income and long‐term career advancement. In addition, weighing factors such as regional industry demands and job market trends provides clarity on whether the financial commitment will yield competitive professional growth. For a detailed review of performance metrics and program quality, consult our guide on the best business degrees.

Can Business Graduates Successfully Transition into Counseling Roles?

Business graduates can leverage their analytical, managerial, and communication skills when entering the counseling and social services sectors. In these roles, their business acumen supports program administration, strategic planning, and resource management while they address unique community needs. Gaining a grounding in business fundamentals enables professionals to operate efficiently in public health settings, non-profit organizations, or private practices. For instance, applying robust managerial skills and understanding of financial operations are essential when establishing or managing counseling centers. Additionally, exploring pathways such as how to become a licensed substance abuse counselor in Maryland can be instrumental for graduates seeking to bridge business expertise with specialized counseling services.

How Are Emerging Technologies Reshaping Maryland Business Programs?

Maryland business schools are increasingly embedding digital innovation and advanced technological tools throughout their curricula. These programs now integrate courses on data analytics, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and fintech applications to equip students with skills that meet the demands of a technology-driven market. Practical projects and industry collaborations provide students with hands-on experience, ensuring they can apply emerging technologies to optimize business operations and drive strategic decision-making. Additionally, this technological emphasis supports graduates in combining analytical prowess with financial acumen, as seen in initiatives that guide learners on how to become a CPA in Maryland.

How can legal expertise enhance business strategy in Maryland?

Maryland business schools that integrate legal training empower graduates to address regulatory challenges and mitigate compliance risks effectively. Emphasizing coursework on business law, contracts, and dispute resolution equips future leaders with the ability to interpret legal frameworks that govern commercial operations and strategic decisions. This interdisciplinary approach also highlights the value of specialized programs and workshops where legal experts share insights on risk management and ethical practices. For those interested in gaining foundational legal competencies, consider exploring how to become a paralegal in Maryland as a complementary pathway.

Can Forensic Science Strengthen Business Integrity in Maryland?

Maryland business schools are beginning to explore innovative strategies to improve organizational transparency and mitigate fraud risks. Integrating forensic science methods into business curricula equips students with the analytical tools needed to identify discrepancies, conduct thorough investigations, and enhance internal controls. This interdisciplinary approach merges traditional business studies with investigative techniques, enabling graduates to approach risk management with a more proactive and evidence‐based mindset. For additional insights into specialized investigative training, refer to forensic scientist education requirements in Maryland.

Can Business Expertise Enhance Success in Regulated Healthcare Sectors?

Business graduates in Maryland can leverage their strategic and managerial skills to address the demanding regulatory frameworks of the healthcare industry. Their expertise enables them to streamline operations, manage resource allocation, and enhance compliance within hospitals, clinics, and pharmacy management units. Additionally, proficiency in regulatory standards—such as pharmacist licensure requirements in Maryland—facilitates effective collaboration between clinical and administrative teams, driving improvements in operational efficiency and service quality.

What to Look for in Business Schools in Maryland

Knowing what factors to consider when choosing business schools in Maryland is vital. These factors ensure that students choose a program that is in line with their academic and career goals.

Accreditation

Choose colleges or universities accredited by CHEA-recognized accrediting bodies. This ensures that the school meets specific educational standards and provides a reputable and recognized business degree.

Some of the well-known organizations that accredit business programs are:

International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE)
Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP)

Program Offerings

Review the range of business programs that a school offers. Aside from a bachelor’s degree, some colleges offer specialized tracks or concentrations that can provide in-depth knowledge in a specific business area. This includes finance, accounting, and marketing.

Meanwhile, many business schools in the state have 4+1 programs. It is a five-year program wherein students will spend three years taking bachelor’s degree courses, while the fourth year will include at least six credits of MBA coursework. This will allow them to enroll in graduate schools in Maryland and complete their master’s degree within a year.

Regardless, it would help to enroll in a program that provides experiential learning. This can be through internship and job placement programs. Doing so allows students to apply what they learned in classes in real-world situations.

Connections and Networking Opportunities

Research the school’s alumni network and business partnerships. That is because colleges and universities with strong ties to the industry can lead to valuable insights and opportunities for students.

Moreover, a strong alumni network can offer networking opportunities that benefit a student’s career. One reason is that 98% of Fortune 500 companies have alumni programs, which allows them to fill up to 20% of their job openings (EnterpriseAlumni, 2023). This means that corporations and enterprises tap alum networks for recruitment.

Financial Aid and Scholarships

A business degree can provide students with a well-rounded education. However, it can come with a hefty tuition. Hence, it would help to look for the cheapest colleges in Maryland that offer business programs.

Another option is to search for available scholarships for business degrees. This financial aid alleviates the burden of paying for their education. It also allows students to focus on their studies, personal growth, and achieving their career goals.

How can Maryland business schools prepare students for the global business landscape?

In an increasingly interconnected world, Maryland business schools play a vital role in preparing students to navigate the global business environment. These institutions equip learners with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in multinational organizations and culturally diverse markets.

One way Maryland’s business schools achieve this is by integrating global perspectives into their curricula. Courses often cover international business strategies, cross-cultural management, and global market trends. Additionally, many programs provide opportunities for students to participate in study abroad programs or collaborate on projects with international universities, offering firsthand exposure to global business practices.

Another advantage is the emphasis on technology and innovation. Maryland’s proximity to key technology hubs ensures that students stay updated on emerging global trends like digital transformation and artificial intelligence in business. This exposure prepares them to compete in a rapidly evolving international market.

Finally, Maryland’s business schools often foster connections with global companies and organizations through internships and networking events. These experiences allow students to gain practical insights and build professional networks that can open doors to international opportunities.

For those looking to fast-track their global business careers, exploring one year MBA programs online can be a game-changer. These accelerated programs often combine advanced business strategies with a focus on global markets, enabling students to gain a competitive edge in less time.

By focusing on these areas, Maryland business schools empower graduates to thrive in an increasingly globalized economy.

What Other Career Paths Are Available to Business Graduates in Maryland?

Business graduates in Maryland have a wide range of career paths to choose from, beyond the traditional roles in finance, management, and entrepreneurship. For instance, they can explore careers in urban planning schools in Maryland and leverage their analytical and problem-solving skills to drive urban development and growth. Additionally, they can consider roles in non-profit organizations, government agencies, or environmental conservation, where their business acumen can be applied to create positive social and environmental impact. By exploring these alternative career paths, business graduates in Maryland can unlock new opportunities and make a meaningful difference in their communities.

Can Interdisciplinary Studies Enhance a Business Degree in Maryland?

Maryland business programs are increasingly incorporating interdisciplinary coursework that bridges traditional business studies with behavioral sciences. Integrating psychology, for example, sharpens skills in leadership, strategic decision-making, and consumer behavior analysis—qualities that distinguish effective business professionals in competitive markets. Exploring such complementary studies not only deepens analytical capabilities but also enriches understanding of organizational dynamics. Discover how merging business acumen with behavioral insights can be transformative by considering the best colleges for psychology in Maryland.

Have the Right Business Skills Wherever You Go

So, is getting a business degree worth it? The answer can be found in the multifaceted benefits that business schools in Maryland provide.

The array of colleges and universities with business programs in the Old Line State offers a rich tapestry of educational opportunities for those aspiring to land a rewarding business career. With their diverse programs, dedicated faculty, and strategic connections to industries, these institutions provide a fertile ground for academic growth and professional development.

Meanwhile, students engage in rigorous curricula, collaborate with peers, and immerse themselves in practical experiences. Doing so enables them to gain valuable insights into the intricacies of the business landscape.

Graduates emerge equipped with a versatile skill set, strategic thinking capabilities, and a global perspective that prepares them for various roles across industries. Investment in a business degree from these institutions can lead to enhanced career opportunities, higher earning potential, and the ability to contribute meaningfully to the business sector.