A 200-Year Legacy of Medicine and Public Service

Health · Published 19 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: For over two centuries, the University of Maryland, Baltimore has served as a cornerstone of American healthcare. From its origins as a medical college to its role in modern cancer research, it has shaped the nation's approach to professional education and public health.

Founded in 1807 as the Maryland College of Medicine, the university has spent more than 200 of the last 250 years shaping the American journey. It currently serves as the state’s public health, law, and human services university, dedicated to professional and graduate education, clinical care, and public service. Its 65-acre campus is situated on the west side of downtown Baltimore, a location that blends small-town charm with big-city amenities. The campus is located just a short walk from the busy Inner Harbor. It serves as a hub for public service and clinical care. The institution is part of the broader University System of Maryland.

The institution's historical significance is rooted in its early role as a pioneer in professional schools. It houses some of the oldest schools of dentistry, law, pharmacy, social work, and nursing in the United States. This legacy of expertise continues today through high-impact research. The faculty of law was first established in 1816. The university was rechartered in 1812 to allow for new departments. It is the second oldest college in the state of Maryland.

For instance, researchers at the university recently identified USP15 as a promising molecular target for ovarian cancer treatment. This enzyme appears to be more heavily relied upon by ovarian cancer cells than normal cells, offering a potential path toward therapies that minimize harm to healthy tissue. Beyond clinical research, the university emphasizes accessibility and social impact. Faculty and students work to address challenges faced by blind and visually impaired patients in accessing health information and explore the historical dynamics of colonialism to understand contemporary global inequalities. By combining this deep historical perspective with modern innovation, the university maintains its commitment to serving the public good. This research was led by a Ph.D. student named Ayokunnumi Ogunsanya. The study showed that reducing USP15 levels creates a variety of effects. This work provides hope for patients whose five-year survival rate is currently under 30 percent.

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