Big Energy, Tight-Knit Community: My Visit to Loyola University Maryland
Just a short 30 minutes by train from Washington, D.C., Loyola University Maryland offers students the rare combination of a warm, tight-knit residential campus and big-school energy. I recently toured Loyola and was struck by its vibrant student life, incredible academic opportunities, and deep commitment to preparing students for life after graduation.
A Campus That Feels Like Home
At Loyola, 81% of students live on campus for all four years. You can feel the strong sense of community from the moment you step onto the gorgeous, tree-lined campus. There is no Greek life. Instead, students build friendships through active clubs, leadership programs, and service opportunities. During the pandemic, Loyola even built an outdoor classroom to keep learning alive — just one example of how adaptable and student-centered this university is.
Academics That Launch Careers
Loyola’s academics are seriously impressive. With an average GPA of 3.7 and SAT scores between 1250–1380 for incoming students, the university attracts bright, motivated learners.
Loyola offers standout programs in biology, psychology, and political science with a real edge given its proximity to D.C. It recently added nursing (with a direct partnership with Mercy Hospital) and boasts Maryland’s only forensic science major, perfect for future criminologists. Students interested in business can take advantage of a cost saving 4+1 MBA program through the well-respected School of Business. And if you’re passionate about health but not interested in pre-med, Loyola’s biohealth major is a fresh and exciting alternative.
Small class sizes mean faculty truly know and mentor their students. I especially loved learning about the Messina program, where first-year students are placed into a living-learning community with a built-in academic advisor, a peer mentor, and classes focused on real-world skills like time management and professional communication.
Career Success Is No Accident
Career preparation is front and center at Loyola. A stunning, two-story Career Center right in the middle of campus offers students hands-on support starting day one. Loyola ranked an incredible #5 nationally for career services according to The Wall Street Journal and an equally impressive #23 for career outcomes out of over 400 colleges.
Students here take full advantage: 70% study abroad, gaining global perspectives that employers look for. There’s also the Thrive Center for Student Success, offering workshops, mentorship, and affinity groups for first-generation students, students of color, and LGBTQ+ students.
A Mission That Matters
As a Jesuit institution, Loyola’s mission is to “transform students into people for the public good.” Students, whether Catholic, another faith, or non-religious,are welcomed into a culture of service, reflection, and growth.
The Office of Campus Ministry supports everything from interfaith and Zen Buddhist services to immersive service trips. Programs like the Fall Leadership Program and retreats specifically for first-generation students ensure that every Rambler feels seen and supported.
Big-School Energy, Small-School Heart
Despite its small to medium size, Loyola feels lively thanks to Division I sports, a bustling performing arts scene (including three a cappella groups), and beautiful new facilities, including a $70 million science center expansion.
Fun fact: Loyola is the only university where you’ll find a basketball court inside the student center!
If you’re looking for a university that pairs community and connection with robust academics and career prep, Loyola University Maryland deserves a spot on your list. It’s a place where you can thrive — not just for four years, but for the life you’ll build after graduation.
