The University of Maryland, Baltimore County (UMBC) is a public research university located in Baltimore County, Maryland. With a sprawling campus of over 500 acres, navigating the university's buildings and resources can be overwhelming, especially for new students, faculty, and staff. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide an overview of the UMBC campus, highlight key buildings and resources, and offer tips on how to find your way around the campus quickly and efficiently.
Understanding the UMBC Campus Layout
The UMBC campus is divided into several quadrants, each with its own unique character and set of buildings. The campus is bounded by Hilltop Circle to the north, Walker Avenue to the east, and Wilkens Avenue to the south. The main entrance to the campus is located on Hilltop Circle, which provides access to the campus’s central quad. The campus is also served by a network of pedestrian paths, bike lanes, and roads, making it easy to get around on foot, by bike, or by car.
Key Buildings and Resources
UMBC is home to a wide range of buildings and resources that support academic, research, and student life. Some of the key buildings and resources include:
- The Albin O. Kuhn Library, which serves as the main library for the campus and provides access to a vast collection of books, journals, and online resources.
- The University Center, which is the hub of student life and features a food court, bookstore, and event spaces.
- The Performing Arts and Humanities Building, which is home to the departments of music, theatre, and dance, as well as the UMBC Symphony Orchestra and the Baltimore Jazz Alliance.
- The Engineering and Computer Science Building, which features state-of-the-art labs and facilities for students and faculty in the College of Engineering and Information Technology.
- The Retriever Activities Center, which is a 25,000-square-foot fitness center that offers a range of recreational activities, including rock climbing, basketball, and swimming.
| Building | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Albin O. Kuhn Library | 1000 Hilltop Circle | Main library for the campus |
| University Center | 1000 Hilltop Circle | Hub of student life, featuring a food court, bookstore, and event spaces |
| Performing Arts and Humanities Building | 1000 Hilltop Circle | Home to the departments of music, theatre, and dance |
| Engineering and Computer Science Building | 1000 Hilltop Circle | Features state-of-the-art labs and facilities for students and faculty in the College of Engineering and Information Technology |
| Retriever Activities Center | 1000 Hilltop Circle | 25,000-square-foot fitness center offering a range of recreational activities |
Navigating the Campus
Navigating the UMBC campus can be challenging, especially for those who are new to the university. However, with a little planning and preparation, it’s easy to find your way around. Here are some tips to help you navigate the campus:
- Download the UMBC mobile app, which provides an interactive map of the campus, as well as information on building hours, parking, and shuttle schedules.
- Familiarize yourself with the campus’s pedestrian paths and bike lanes, which provide a safe and convenient way to get around on foot or by bike.
- Take advantage of the campus’s shuttle service, which provides transportation between the main campus and the surrounding neighborhoods.
- Use the campus’s parking garages and lots, which offer convenient and secure parking for students, faculty, and staff.
Getting Around Without a Car
While having a car can be convenient, it’s not necessary to get around the UMBC campus. The university offers a range of transportation options, including:
- The UMBC Shuttle, which provides transportation between the main campus and the surrounding neighborhoods.
- The MTA Bus, which connects the campus to downtown Baltimore and other surrounding neighborhoods.
- BikeShare, which provides access to bicycles for students, faculty, and staff.
- CarShare, which provides access to cars for students, faculty, and staff who need to travel off campus.
What is the best way to get to the UMBC campus?
+The best way to get to the UMBC campus depends on your location and preferred mode of transportation. The campus is accessible by car, bus, bike, or on foot. The university’s admissions office also offers guided tours, which provide an overview of the campus and its buildings and resources.
Where can I park on the UMBC campus?
+The UMBC campus has several parking garages and lots, which offer convenient and secure parking for students, faculty, and staff. The campus also offers a range of parking permits, which can be purchased online or at the university’s parking office.
Is the UMBC campus accessible for students with disabilities?
+Yes, the UMBC campus is accessible for students with disabilities. The university offers a range of services and accommodations, including wheelchair-accessible buildings, parking, and transportation. The university’s disability services office also provides support and resources for students with disabilities.
