From a tiny teacher-training school to a major metropolitan university, Towson has evolved.

Countries & Cities · Published 10 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Founded in 1866 to address Maryland's need for educators, Towson University has transformed from a modest institution with eleven students into a sprawling campus of over 20,000. Today, it stands as a significant anchor in the Baltimore region, balancing academic research with deep community engagement and a robust athletic program.

Towson University began as the Maryland State Normal School, established by the General Assembly in 1865 to train teachers. Its first classes were held in 1866 at Red Man's Hall in Baltimore, with only eleven students and three faculty members. As enrollment surged, the school moved through several temporary locations before settling on an 80-acre site in Towson in 1915. This expansion marked the beginning of a long journey toward becoming a comprehensive university, eventually shifting its focus from teacher training to a broader range of academic disciplines, including arts, sciences, and business.

The university's growth accelerated significantly during the 1960s, driven by the baby boomer generation. This period saw the construction of major facilities like the Cook Library and the University Union. By 1976, the institution officially became Towson State University, and in 1997, it dropped the 'state' designation to reflect its status as a metropolitan university. Today, the 329-acre campus supports over 20,000 students across eight colleges, offering 110 undergraduate majors and more than 80 graduate programs.

Beyond academics, Towson plays an active role in the local economy through its Division of Economic and Community Outreach, established in 2004. This division partners with Baltimore City and local organizations to support community development, such as the revitalization of the Cherry Hill neighborhood. The university also maintains a strong commitment to sustainability, pledging to reach carbon neutrality by 2050. With 20 Division I athletic teams and a vibrant campus life, Towson continues to serve as a central hub for research, education, and public service in Maryland.

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