College of Southern Maryland

La Plata, Maryland, United States · Est. 1958 · Community College

Maryland's public community college serving Southern Maryland with four campuses and 120+ programs.

  • Founded September 1, 1958 as Charles County Junior College; renamed College of Southern Maryland in 2000
  • Public community college with 14,329 students (2023); 7,622 undergraduates
  • Four campuses: La Plata (main), Leonardtown, Prince Frederick, and Regional Hughesville; plus specialized training centers
  • Offers 120+ programs including Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, and Associate of Applied Science degrees
  • 17:1 student-to-faculty ratio; 300+ transfer agreements with four-year institutions
  • Ranked #4 best community college in Maryland (2024, Intelligent.com)

Academics

CSM offers more than 120 programs of study across three schools: Liberal Arts, STEM and Professional Studies, and Health Sciences. Students can earn Associate of Arts, Associate of Science, or Associate of Applied Science degrees, along with workforce training certificates and continuing education options. The college maintains 300+ transfer agreements with four-year colleges and universities, facilitating seamless pathways to bachelor's degrees. Specialized accreditation includes business (ACBSP), physical therapy (APTA), and nursing (NLN) programs.

Campus & Student Life

CSM operates four main campuses across Southern Maryland's Charles, St. Mary's, and Calvert counties, plus specialized training facilities. The La Plata Campus features 14 buildings including a fine arts center with 400-seat auditorium, computer labs, library, and fitness center. The Regional Hughesville Campus includes the Center for Trades and Energy Training and the Center for Health Sciences. All campuses offer student support services, athletics (NJCAA Division II), clubs, and cultural events. The college serves 700+ military and veteran students.

Admissions

CSM welcomes first-time students, returning students, transfer students, international students, and military/veteran students. The college offers both credit and non-credit pathways. Admissions services are available on-site and virtually, with extended hours during the week. Students can apply for fall or spring semesters, with registration assistance sessions available. The college emphasizes open-door access and flexible scheduling to accommodate working adults and diverse learner needs.

Outcomes & Support

The Center for Career Development and Success connects students with paid internships, professional competency development, and career readiness support. CSM reports $31,000 average savings for students completing their first two years at the college before transferring. The college awarded $5 million in scholarships to 4,000 students over five years. Transfer services and academic advising support student success, with many alumni advancing to leadership roles in government and community organizations.

Founded
1958
Type
Community College
Courses
11
Total intake
Not yet verified
Websitehttp://csmd.edu
HousingNot available
Some details are still being verified.

Quick stats

Courses offered
11
Avg career outcomes
$44.4K
Total intake
Not yet verified
Housing
No
Data last verified June 2026 · compiled from official sources