CSM Ranked Among Top Community Colleges in the Country

As students search for affordable, accessible options for higher education, the College of Southern Maryland (CSM) has been recognized as one of the nation’s top 30 community colleges for providing a strong return on their educational investment.  

According to WalletHub rankings released last month, CSM ranks 29th out of a total 613 institutions that are members of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC). The rankings are based on affordability, retention and graduation rates, and post-graduation mobility. The rankings also consider student-faculty ratios, credit for prior learning opportunities, and student-loan defaults.  

WalletHub ranks Maryland as the top state in the country to go to community college. In the statewide rankings, CSM comes in fifth. 

CSM President Dr. Wilson said the rankings are a testament to the institution’s commitment to student success, and the strategic plan’s focus on increasing access, building momentum, and enhancing mobility. 

“We are proud to receive this recognition because it reflects that the work we do everyday matters,” Wilson said. “Putting students first means creating pathways that help them move forward. When we expand access to education, and support students across the finish line, we are investing in the future of Southern Maryland.” 

The recognition comes as community colleges continue to see increased interest from students seeking affordable and accessible pathways to higher education. According to January 2026 data by the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, community college enrollment continues to grow faster than enrollment at four-year institutions. Since fall 2021, enrollment in undergraduate certificate and associate degree programs has increased by more than 28 percent.  

In 2025, enrollment in community colleges increased by 3 percent, compared to 1.4 percent at public four-year institutions, and a decline in private four-year schools.  

At CSM, fall 2025 enrollment reached 5,192 students, its highest enrollment since before the pandemic.  

“Our enrollment growth represents the future of our region,” Wilson said. “Every student who has access to an education has an opportunity to change their trajectory. They will become nurses, business owners, skilled tradespeople, educators, and leaders who strengthen our workforce and community.”