Division of Undergraduate Academic Affairs

Dean Cole

The Division of Undergraduate Academic Affairs (UAA) supports the academic pursuits of undergraduate students from all colleges and programs from enrollment to graduation. Through personalized and structured programs, we provide an enriching, innovative environment in which undergraduate students learn to study effectively, achieve their academic goals, and engage in a distinctive undergraduate experience.

We invite you to explore the UAA website and learn more about the many programs and resources available to you as an undergraduate UMBC student.

~Katharine H. Cole
Vice Provost and Dean of Undergraduate Academic Affairs

Vision:

The Division of Undergraduate Academic Affairs enriches the undergraduate student experience academically, socially, and civically. Working independently and collaboratively, our units offer programs that contribute to student success and support the broader mission of the University.

Mission:

Our mission is to lead and connect to the UMBC community by coordinating university-wide initiatives designed to support students toward successful completion of their academic journey at UMBC and to ensure they are prepared to meet the challenges of the future. UAA is involved in developing and revising curricula, programs, and academic policy and in fostering external relations to deliver a distinctive experience for all undergraduates.

Academic Engagement and Transition Programs

Academic Engagement and Transition Programs provides first-year programs to serve students in their initial year at UMBC. These programs are: The Discovery Scholars Living-Learning Community, First-Year Seminar, Introduction to an Honors University, New Student Book Experience, Summer Bridge Program, and Transfer Seminars.

Academic Opportunity Programs

The Office of Academic Opportunity provides resources and support to students who are traditionally underrepresented in post-secondary education, specifically students who are low-income, first-generation, and members of racial/ethnic minority groups, to facilitate their academic success.

Academic Success Center

The Academic Success Center provides centralized support services to all undergraduate students at UMBC. Through a coordinated approach and an unwavering commitment to student success, the Academic Success Center fosters a welcoming environment that provides a one-stop opportunity through Academic Policy, Academic Resources, and Academic Advocacy for students to achieve their academic goals and claim their future with a UMBC degree.

Honors College

The Honors College is an integral part of the UMBC community, offering talented students a challenging and interdisciplinary academic program within the broader university.

Individualized Study

Individualized Study (INDS) serves UMBC students whose interests and professional goals reach beyond the boundaries of a traditional major. In-depth advising combines with a core curriculum to help students design and implement unique, interdisciplinary degrees.

Meyerhoff Program — Meyerhoff Scholars Program

The Meyerhoff Scholars Program is at the forefront of efforts to increase diversity among future leaders in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and other related fields. The UMBC Meyerhoff family is strong with alumni across the nation.

Sherman Program — Sherman STEM Teacher Scholars Program

The Sherman STEM Teacher Scholars Program supports students who want to be highly qualified science and math teachers. Sherman scholars are prepared to meet the needs of students from all backgrounds and to work in challenging schools in urban and other settings.

Undergraduate Research/
Prestigious Scholarships

The office of Undergraduate Research coordinates university-wide initiatives for undergraduate students to help them understand and engage in comprehensive research, fund their projects, present and publish their scholarship and creative work, and collaborate with faculty mentors. It also provides academic programming and support to students applying for prestigious scholarships such as Rhodes, Gates Cambridge, Truman, Marshall, Goldwater, and others.

Women's center group photo — Women’s Center

The Women’s Center at UMBC advances gender equity from an intersectional feminist perspective through co-curricular programming, support services, and advocacy for marginalized individuals and communities. We prioritize critical social justice as our community value, with a deliberate focus on women, gender, anti-racism, and feminism.

Please note: UMBC is committed to creating an accessible and inclusive environment for all students, staff, and visitors. If you have difficulties accessing any of the materials on our site, please contact us so that we can provide an alternative format and remedy any accessibility challenges.