In fall 2000, The University System of Maryland (USM) introduced a new concept in advanced education. This was the beginning of the Universities at Shady Grove (USG) — Currently a collaboration of nine, public degree-granting institutions that brings some of the top programs from across the state to one convenient facility in Montgomery County.
USG is a different kind of learning community. It's designed for students who are professionally focused; who want to fast track their degree. Everything about USG is aimed at helping students complete their degree and start their career. Programs are exclusively upper level and graduate; daytime classes are offered either full-time or part-time; the facilities are state-of-the-art; and the USG staff is student-focused and highly experienced with transfers.
USG has established its own Shady Grove Business Alliance and has formed relationships with organizations such as the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce and the Technology Council of Maryland. During the next few years, USG plans to expand its program offerings, build even more community partnerships, develop a student internship network and begin construction on a new facility, Building III.