The University of Maryland School of Medicine was established in 1807, which makes it the oldest public medical school in the US. It is also one of the most research-intensive. The school sits in Baltimore on the University of Maryland Baltimore campus.
It is closely integrated with the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), anchored by the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center. NIH funding here is among the highest of any public medical school. The Institute of Human Virology (IHV) is a world leader in HIV/AIDS research and global health, which gives the school unusual strength in infectious disease.
What makes University of Maryland School of Medicine (MD) different
The University of Maryland School of Medicine, founded in 1807, is the oldest public medical school in the United States. The school is home to the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center — which pioneered the "Golden Hour" concept of trauma care and is one of the world's premier trauma centers.
UMSOM has significant NIH-funded research strengths in infectious disease (its Institute of Human Virology, co-founded by Dr. Robert Gallo, is a world leader in HIV research), cardiovascular medicine, and neuroscience.
University of Maryland School of Medicine (MD) course & teaching
Integrated curriculum. 4-year MD. Years 1–2 integrate basic science, early patient contact, and health systems curriculum. Years 3–4 at University of Maryland Medical Center, Shock Trauma Center, VA Maryland Health Care System, and affiliated community hospitals in Baltimore and the region. MD-PhD program (MSTP) available.
University of Maryland School of Medicine (MD) research strengths
University of Maryland School of Medicine (MD) is strong in these research areas:
- HIV/AIDS and infectious disease
- Trauma and shock physiology
- Cardiovascular biology
- Neuroscience
- Cancer immunology
How the University of Maryland School of Medicine (MD) interview runs
Format: Traditional one-on-one and panel interviews with faculty and students in Baltimore
University of Maryland School of Medicine interview days are held in Baltimore at the Health Sciences Facility complex. Applicants typically complete two traditional interviews — one with a faculty member or clinician and one with a current student — each approximately 30 minutes.
Interviewers have reviewed the full application beforehand and probe motivation, research background, clinical experience, and connection to UMSOM's mission. The day includes a financial aid session, a tour of the UM Medical Center (including the R Adams Cowley Shock Trauma Center), and informal student interactions.
Being the oldest public medical school in the US (founded 1807), the school's historical significance is a common conversation theme.
University of Maryland School of Medicine (MD) intake
Approximately 165 students per year.
University of Maryland School of Medicine (MD) at a glance
Founded in 1807. Based in Baltimore, MD.
Programmes offered:
- Trauma and Shock Surgery
- Infectious Disease
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Neuroscience
- Oncology