Towson University

Towson University is a public university located in Towson, Maryland, just north of Baltimore. Founded in 1866, it is part of the University System of Maryland and enrolls more than 20,000 students. Originally established as a teacher-training institution, Towson University continues to be a major producer of educators in the state while also offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs across fields such as business, health professions, liberal arts, education, and the sciences. The suburban campus serves a diverse student body and combines traditional academic programs with professional preparation, research opportunities, and community engagement.

Towson University was founded in 1866 as the Maryland State Normal School, created to train public school teachers during a period of educational reform following the Civil War. Originally located in Baltimore, the institution later moved to Towson, Maryland, in 1915 to accommodate growth. In 1935, it became the Maryland State Teachers College at Towson and began expanding its academic offerings beyond teacher preparation. The institution was renamed Towson State College in 1963 and Towson State University in 1976, reflecting its broader curriculum and growing enrollment. In 1997, it adopted the name Towson University. Over time, Towson University developed multiple colleges and graduate programs and became part of the University System of Maryland. Today, Towson University is one of the largest public universities in Maryland, maintaining its historic commitment to education while offering comprehensive academic programs.