U.S. News & World Report Best Colleges rankings mark UMBC as tied for #127 among national universities, up 17 places from 2025, and tied for #63 on the list of top public schools, up 11 places. The rankings are based on a large variety of factors such as graduation rates, faculty resources, and academic reputation. 

UMBC was also tied for #86 in top colleges for veterans, evidence that the university’s initiatives to support veteran students’ success are paying off. 

“We are excited to see UMBC’s upward trajectory recognized in these rankings,” says Yvette Mozie-Ross ’88, vice provost for enrollment management and planning. “These gains reflect our strong commitment to student success, access, and innovation—hallmarks of a UMBC education that continue to set us apart nationally.”

Veteran services an example of strong student support 

Two years ago, Dennis Walker, Jr., was hired as the assistant director for adult learners and veteran student success.

UMBC being recognized by U.S. News for its efforts in serving veteran and military-affiliated students is more than just an institutional achievement, he says, but a celebration of the positive impact that new veteran-focused initiatives are having on campus. 

“With the support of UMBC leadership, I take great pride in knowing that our collective commitment is helping to ensure that these students feel supported, valued, and equipped to succeed during such a pivotal stage of their personal, academic, and professional journeys,”  says Walker.

UMBC strives to provide holistic support to veteran and military-affiliated students, Walker says. This includes help navigating their educational benefits, access to mental health resources, professional development such as resume workshops and connections to on-campus job opportunities, and dedicated events, spaces, and student organizations that offer a sense of community. 

As part of these efforts, UMBC opened a Veterans Lounge in fall 2024, where veteran students can relax and connect with each other. Each year, UMBC also hosts Veterans Week, a tradition that honors the service and contributions of veteran students and staff with a variety of fun and educational events. 

“Supporting our veteran population is not only a responsibility, but also a privilege,” Walker says. “Our veteran and military-affiliated student population bring unique perspectives, experiences, and strengths to our campus community. Their dedication, resilience, and leadership not only enrich the university as a whole, but also inspire us to continually enhance the ways in which we support them.”

Read more about UMBC’s national rankings recognition. 

Want to be part of one of UMBC's most fun Homecoming traditions? We're looking for volunteers to help with the multiple aspects of Homecoming, including:

• Homecoming Student Org Kickball Tournament (Sunday, October 5, 2025)

• Homecoming 5K and Family Fun Run (Wednesday, October 8 - Saturday, October 11)

• Homecoming Carnival (Friday, October 10 and Saturday, October 11)

• Homecoming Puppy Parade (Saturday, October 11)

• Be part of a signature UMBC Homecoming events

• Meet fellow Retrievers (and possibly their pups!)

• Free event t-shirt and admission to the carnival

Dr. James DeVita, associate vice president for academic partnerships and high-impact experiences in the Division of Student Affairs, will speak with alumni from UMBC’s Community Leadership program at Homecoming on Saturday, October 11, from 3 to 5 p.m. in the The Commons Sports Zone (new location). This Community Leadership Gathering, open to all, is a free, ticketed event.

Dr. DeVita is the newest faculty member in the Community Leadership program, which prepares aspiring and practicing leaders with the skills and experience needed to generate transformative social change. His conversation with alumni will focus on leadership skills and career readiness. It will be a facilitated conversation that engages attendees, includes opportunities for audience questions, and encourages reflection and dialogue.

“The Community Leadership program is not only interdisciplinary, bringing together students from all types of disciplinary backgrounds, it's also interprofessional, bringing together individuals who work in a wide range of fields,” said Dr. DeVita. “This makes for a rich learning experience for both students and instructors that is helping me to learn more about our community(-ies) in Baltimore while also getting to support student engagement and learning. I'm also inspired by the opportunity to co-teach with Dr. Sally Scott, graduate program director, and curious about the impact of our collaborative approach on students' learning – something we might explore during our discussion at Homecoming, among other topics.”

Graduate Students Game Night

Date: October 2
Time: 4-6PM

Venue: Commons 331

We've got a great lineup of games waiting for you—Codenames, Sequence, Sushi Go Party, Exploding Kittens, and more! Also, chances to win great cash prizes! 

1st Prize - $100 
2nd Prize - $75 
3rd Prize - $50

Whether you're a board game pro or just looking to unwind, this is the perfect chance to connect, laugh, and have fun. Don't miss it—bring your friends and join the fun! 

Register here. You can also scan the QR code on the poster attached below.