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College of Southern Maryland Reviews

Average Rating Details

Academic Rigor

Dorm Life

Food and Dining

See College of Southern Maryland reviews submitted by students. Find out what students have to say about various aspects of attending College of Southern Maryland. Read about academic experiences and campus life in these free College of Southern Maryland reviews, or contribute your own College of Southern Maryland review if you're a current student there.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Tyler from LA Plata, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The professors I've had at CSM have taught me quite a lot. They all are very much qualified to be teaching their subjects and have the proper credentials to do so. CSM provides a great learning environment for students of all types. The classes are small which provides plenty of one on one time with the professors, and I feel like I'm receiving the same education as someone at a four-year college.
    Am enjoying being here

    I very much enjoy myself at CSM. Sadly, I'm not getting the same life experiences at CSM as I would going away to college, but it makes a great stepping stone for someone who isn't quite prepared to leave home.
    Bang for the buck

    CSM is definitely a money saver. It is somewhat pricey compared to other community colleges, but with its ongoing progress in size and quality, CSM is most definitely worth it.
    Tips for prospective students

    Keep in mind that although CSM is a community college, that doesn't mean classes are going to be easy. I still had a lot of studying to do for midterms and finals.
    Great for these types of students

    CSM is great for teenagers who are paying for college themselves, because it can save you a lot of money. Also, for students who aren't ready to live on their own, CSM has many campuses close to home. CSM is also great for students who would like to transfer to colleges in the state of Maryland. They offer a lot of transfer programs and advice.

  • 1 out of 1 people found this review useful.

    Keani from Bryans Road , MD

    Reviewer is Accepted here and planning to attend soon. Reviewer has been to campus.

    Categories Rating Comments

  • Jennifer from Mechanicsville, MD

    Reviewer is A past student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    It is a great college with a lot of great faculty. It is a great start for people who do not have money for a 4 year college or do not want to be in a crowd. Classes are small and detail oriented.
    Tips for prospective students

    Do not procrastinate. Always see your advisors and keep up with your work.
    Academic Rigor

    It depends on what type of student you are.
    Dorm Life

    There is no dorm.
    Food and Dining

    Prince Frederick and LaPlata have very good food. Leonardtown, not so much.
    What to do for fun

    There are dozens of clubs. The campuses always have theater productions, concerts, and activities on the lawn.
    Bang for the buck

    This college is extremely affordable.
    Great for these types of students

    Great for students who have lower incomes. Also great for students who do not want to be a tiny fish in a big pond. This college is especially great for people who are just getting their feet wet and do not know what they want in life.
    Clubs and Activities

    There is a club for everyone!
    Campus Safety

    I have never had a problem. Most places are extremely well lit.

  • Lauren from Waldorf, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    The College of Southern Maryland is in a beautiful neighborhood in the bedroom community of La Plata, Maryland. The campus has new facilities, to include a large-scale swimming pool and gym; as well as home to the historic Friendship House, relocated to CSM, which is one of the oldest homes constructed by early settlers of Maryland. Its warmth and peaceful beauty makes it a great welcoming community for any student.
    Tips for prospective students

    CSM does not offer on-campus housing. Therefore, any out-of-state residents should consider saving funds for at least a year prior to enrolling, or consider attending with a friend as a roommate consideration, since Charles County is on the outskirts of Washington DC. Therefore, local apartment costs are very expensive for teenagers, averaging above $1000 per month.
    Academic Rigor

    Many of the courses are very relaxed and instructors are very accustomed to the adult students from the Washington DC government. Therefore, academics, albeit difficult dependent upon subject matter, are adjusted to a comfortable pace with regards to homework and studies.
    Dorm Life

    None.
    Food and Dining

    La Plata, Maryland has seen a recent boom in development and growth in the last year. Neighbor to Waldorf, Maryland, considered the shopping capital of Southern Maryland, La Plata is home to the Blue Crab fishing marinas and close to the best seafood restaurants in the state as well as host to several of the most popular restaurants from a variety of cultures.
    What to do for fun

    Southern Maryland is very historic and cultural. Students will be able to visit many historic sites such as the Samuel Mudd House as well as several summer houses and visitation sites by many past presidents such as Washington, Lincoln, and Jefferson. Students will live only 40 minutes from downtown Washington DC and many museums, memorials, and cultural centers - all FREE to the public.
    Bang for the buck

    Students should definitely take the Spy Tour which takes you on an adventurous trip back through time to the Cold War Era. Owned and operated by previous U.S. and Russian spies, tours point out old spy tunnels, drop-points, and covert assasin rendevous points long since forgotten.
    Share any unusual traditions or locations on campus

    Yu-Gi-Oh is the favorite past time of many Southern Maryland teens, even after they arrive at college. CSM has many community areas and student social cafes for between-class meet-ups while the gym is still the place to go, especially with the local Jersey Shore GTL (gym-tan-laundry) teen following.
    Great for these types of students

    If you ever felt you were that academic nerd in the corner, fascinated by acting, Yu-Gi-Oh cards, or Anime Comics, CSM is your college campus. Washington DC hosts the annual Japanese festivals as well as the Cherry Blossom festival. This period is a great time for teens to dress up in their favorite Cos-Play costume, attend local exhibitions, or even participate in many community theatrical productions at CSM.
    Campus Safety

    The campus has several patrolling security guards but everyone is very low-key. The campus is very welcoming to students and guests and exhibits a level of comfort and trust.

  • Abreellen from Newburg, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    It's a great place to start off getting used to college particularly work load and grading. A convenient college because it has three campuses and online classes. Plus you are able to get a two-year degree or certificate for a cheaper price.
    Tips for prospective students

    Don't be afraid of taking online classes, you still get all of the material. Though if you are skeptical about them just take one your first semester to see how it goes, usually tech classes are good to take online.
    Academic Rigor

    Your course load depends on the number of classes you decide to take each semester. Of course the more you take the less free time you'll end of having. The amount of work for each class solely depends on the professor and the type of class. The professors will make you think and will grade pretty hard...well it's college so they should!
    Dorm Life

    HOME!!!! :-) or :-( because you save money this way, but you are still with your parents. Depending on where you live your commute time may be 5-40 minutes since campuses are in Leonardtown, Prince Frederick, and La Plata.
    Food and Dining

    La Plata has a cafe that serves sandwiches, soups, Chick-fil-a (Wednesdays), etc. Prince Frederick and Leonardtown sells snacks in the bookstore, so you will always have something to snack on. Plus they aren't far from other restaurants.
    What to do for fun

    Theater clubs, sports teams, and other clubs.
    Bang for the buck

    Getting two years worth of college education for about $12,000, depending on your major, course fees, and books.
    Great for these types of students

    Those trying to save money before going to the big schools. You get the prerequisites out of the way. Also for those who are unsure of what to major in, if you decide to change majors you are not losing lots of money.

  • Ashley from WALDORF, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    I underestimated CSM, especially because it had been known as the thirteenth grade. The professors are hidden gems, well educated and motivating. Most of the seminars I would even consider moving. Great school and even better price.
    Tips for prospective students

    Definitely use ratemyprofessor.com because the students are really honest and will let you know which teachers aren't pushovers and actually teach.
    Academic Rigor

    I've taken some motivating classes from amazing professors and discouraging classes from not so amazing professors, depends on the professor.
    Food and Dining

    I've had food from the cafeteria once. Although the food is pretty good the grease filled napkin afterwards was less than appetizing. The tables, for eating, are usually full of students studying.
    What to do for fun

    Go to class.
    Bang for the buck

    You definitely get what you pay for here. There are plenty of amazing professors here but you must research the professor and choose wisely.
    Great for these types of students

    Great for students who are working and want to work either full-time or part-time.
    Clubs and Activities

    There's an abundance of clubs to be a part of and they are all welcoming and encouraging.
    Campus Safety

    I'm sure they have it, but I've never seen it. They're basically a myth, I'd consider them equals to big foot.

  • Sarah from Great Mills, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    The College of Southern Maryland is a very decent schooling establishment. It has given me the chance to start my basic learning studies and get on the path to reaching my educational goals. Though the classes can be limited in their availability, the college does have a good teaching staff that has the patience and consideration to help everyone get through the courses.
    Tips for prospective students

    The College of Southern Maryland is a school that is made for local students wishing to begin their college education. It is a community college, so it might not have all of the courses one may need in order to reach their career goals. It is really good however, in getting a student on the path to that goal.
    Academic Rigor

    The classes of CSM are the general studies a student would take in any first year of any college. The teachers for these classes are all very good at teaching and know what they are talking about, however some do lack in connecting with their students and helping them fully learn and appreciate the course material.
    Dorm Life

    The College of Southern Maryland has no dorm life, because there are no dorms. It is a local college that was made so that residents in the area could drive to the college from where ever they lived.
    Food and Dining

    The College of Southern Maryland is a purely educational establishment. It does have a student cafe in one of its buildings that allow for students to hang out, do work, and relax between classes. Dining is not supplied at the school though.

  • Kiaira from Clinton, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    the teachers and staff are nice. the criminal justice teachers are great and show you what happens in the real world. the campus is small.
    Tips for prospective students

    sit up front and listen to what the teacher has to say also ask questions they are there to help you and its your money. make sure you are well prepared for class.
    Dorm Life

    no dorms
    Food and Dining

    i have never tasted the food at the campus

  • Tiaira from Clinton, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    college of southern maryland is a nice school. the teachers are nice and the criminal justice teachers know exactly what they are talking about from experience. the campus is a bit small.
    Tips for prospective students

    my tips for prospective students are when you are in class dont be disrespectful because the teacher will not respect you and explore everything at the school that is for the students to enjoy.
    Academic Rigor

    depending on the class you take you learn so much.
    Dorm Life

    there are no dorms it is a community college.
    Food and Dining

    i have never tried their food or been to the dining area.
    What to do for fun

    i never stay at the campus for the fun stuff.

  • MM from Waldorf, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    the college of southern maryland is a school where the professors and counselors are always there to help. the other students around you are very nice and even though they are in the same class as you, you can always ask them for help as well. this a great higher institution and can help you transfer to any school that you feel is the right one to continue your college career.
    Tips for prospective students

    when you get to the school, don't feel overwhelmed by the work that some professors give because most of the work they give is easy. if you have any types of questions, always ask your professors, no matter what the question because they just might have an answer for you.
    Academic Rigor

    depends on the class and professor.
    Dorm Life

    there are no dorms.

  • Lauren from Huntingtown, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments

  • Emily from Lexington Park, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    the classes are not bad and the location is convenient. the financial aide office and very disorganized and not very helpful. every time i go in there i get different information from the same people, very frustrating!
    Tips for prospective students

    fill out all the forms you need very early. give yourself extra time for all the run around the college gives you.
    What to do for fun

    there is a calendar of events that has things to do. also there are cheap tickets you can get through the college for different events.
    Bang for the buck

    i think college and books are all around too expensive!

  • 2015

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    In three sentences

    College of Southern Maryland in La Plata Maryland is a beautiful campus that is being redecorated as of 2011. There are many majors you can chose from and many programs if you want to get certified for something as driving trucks you can. They are always willing to help you if you are willing to ask for help.
    Tips for prospective students

    If you decide to attend CSM for one or maybe two years you will have a wide range of majors to choose from or you can just do elects so no matter what there is no excuse.
    What to do for fun

    This is a community college but there are plenty of things to do with the campus if interested.

  • Chelsea from Chesapeake Beach, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Professor wise, the college has done well. Although, this college is mostly for students just trying to complete the first two year general education requirements. Major related, this college lacks.
    Am enjoying being here

    It is a nice campus, and the library is a great place to study.
    Bang for the buck

    For what it has to offer, the price is good.
    Tips for prospective students

    Listen to the professors, most give out the answers to the test the day before.
    Great for these types of students

    Students entering the nursing program, or are in need of a general education or certificate.

  • Sarah from Waldorf, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The teachers I have had so far are very professional, and definitely know their stuff. I am getting my associates degree here. I know I will be very well-prepared for my future career.
    Am enjoying being here

    I can go home between classes. The campus is very clean for a community college. In fact, it's pretty impressive. The faculty and staff are always very helpful. I can access the gym and the library for as long as the campus is open on the given day.
    Bang for the buck

    I am taking all my core classes here. Because I'm getting all of my General Education credits out of the way at a community college, I am saving thousands of dollars, while learning the same stuff I would be learning had I attended a state university or private college from the start. Going to CSM is a smart choice.

    Just remember if you live outside Charles County or St. Mary's County, you may have to spend quite a bit more, because you may not be zoned for any of the campuses. Always check online for details.
    Tips for prospective students

    (1) Make sure you read the instructor/ professor reviews. You get to add and/or drop classes a couple of months after the semester starts, but that would be a waste of time and effort, so it's best to pick the right instructor from the start, or at least get a feel for what to expect within the first week, when your class is just going over the syllabus and/or when the first lesson is introduced. Don't get me wrong; the professors are all great in their own way, but you want to make sure YOUR professor's teaching style suits YOU. Same goes for any learning institution.

    (2) Always check Blackboard Online, and your CSM WebCT. You'll know what those are once you are registered, but they are very helpful tools to keep you on track. If your Internet stops working one day, make sure you check them at school or somewhere else where you have access.

    (3) Do not hesitate to email your professors or go to their office when you have questions. It's not embarrassing, and it's not bothersome. They are required to be in their office at some point in the day almost everyday for your convenience. Their hours are always on the syllabus they give you at the beginning of the course.

    (4) Always have a copy of the syllabus. If you loose it, copy someone else's or ask for a new one. This goes hand-in-hand with #'s 2 and 3.

    (5) Check your email, the weather closing hot line, or the school website for any indication that your class has been canceled. You don't want to drive all the way to school for nothing.

    Great for these types of students

    (1) Students looking to transfer--and save money in the process. First and foremost, you highest degree you will likely get at the College of Southern Maryland is your associates. Your best bet is that you will knock all of your general education credits out of the way, and THEN transfer to a different college/university to finish it off and get your bachelor's degree. My goal is to transfer, but since by the time I do, I will have enough credits to get my associates degree, I feel like I might as well obtain it in the process. I hear from the faculty that the curriculum at the school is specially designed so that all of your obtained credits are transferable to any Maryland state college or university. The amount of transferable credits colleges and universities accept vary, so you really have to check with both CSM and your intended school to be sure. The Transfer Services Office at the school will be more than happy to help.

    (2) Students who don't like lectures at all. They have online courses for those who are up for it. You save time and gas money--just make sure you can keep yourself focused.

    (3) Students who want to be in the classroom only some of the time. There are these things called web-hybrid classes, in which you meet with your class and your instructor only every-so-often. For example, if on the course description it says you will meet once a week or twice a month, that is when you will have to go to a campus and meet up with your instructor and fellow students. All meetings are scheduled in advance, and you are notified when a meeting is coming up. You can sometimes make up for the ones you miss, but it all depends on your instructor's policies. When you're not meeting, then all assignments are online and due when specified.

    (4) Working students. There is a career center that will help you fix up your resume. If you currently have a job, then it's very easy to schedule your classes around your work schedule. There are co-op programs for certain degrees, in which your work experience will help towards earning your credits. The advisers are very helpful with that.

    (5) Students who are free on the weekends. There are Saturday classes!

    (6) Students who want to get it over with. Mini sessions are longer class sessions (3-6 hours, usually with a 1-1 1/2 hour lunch breaks and 5-10 minute breaks throughout the class), but they allow you to condense the total duration of your course by several weeks. Sometimes the 3-hour classes usually mean you only meet once a week as opposed to twice.

    (7) Those who love their Fridays. Most professors love them, too. So mostly all classes are just M/W or T/Th. The only reason why you would come across a Friday class is if your classes start later or end sooner than your other ones, in terms of session dates.

    (8) The undecided students. It's either you have a listed major and/or intended degree, or you are undecided. That being said, I have a lot of friends who THOUGHT they wanted to do something for a living (or listed it down because that's what their family intended for them) and then they learned so much about the field and/or in another elective that they decided to change directions based on their fascination and/or newly-found dislike for their original path. And most of the time, the undecided students secure their majors after taking classes at CSM. This is another reason why it's better to figure it all out at CSM as opposed to wasting thousands at a more expensive school.

  • Anonymous from Accokeek, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    Although the classes are a bit longer than high school, I enjoy the small class size, and the teachers. They don't seem as though they are as stressed as high school teachers were. Theytreat you as an adult.
    Am enjoying being here

    I enjoy my classes, and the campus is very nice, they are constantly improving the gounds and the buildings on the campus.
    Bang for the buck

    I think all Maryland residents should pay, In-county tuition. I dont think it's fair for someone to have to pay more because they live in a neighboring county.
    Tips for prospective students

    Going to a Junior College is a good way to transition into college life. There were things I had to get used to, but over all, I'm glad I 'm I started out here. I don't feel as though I'm just another student in a lecture hall.
    Great for these types of students

    CSM is great for students who aren't really sure what they want to major in, and aslo for those who feel a bit intimidated by large class sizes.

  • Anonymous

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I love my classes and I am learning a lot. The professors are very willing to help you if you need it. With the small classes, it is very easy to ask questions.

    Do not let the fact that it is a Community College make you think that it is not challenging. You still need to do a lot of studying and work outside of class if you expect to recieve an A.
    Am enjoying being here

    I like all of my professors and my classes are interesting. The college always has events going on for students and there are many clubs and oranizations that you can join. The gym and pool are free, and the proximity to my home is great.
    Bang for the buck

    The College of Southern Maryland is very affordable. You get great professors, small classes, and a quality education for a very low price. Many of the credits transfer to in state schools.

    The only drawback is that there is not a very large selection of classes for some of the programs such as Foreign Language and Political Science. They also do not have very many upper level courses. I have to transfer after just a year so that I do not fall behind.
    Tips for prospective students

    CSM really is a great school. Don't be disapointed if you end up going here and it wasn't your first choice. CSM helped me realize what I want to do with my life. It also allowed me one more year to realize what I want in a four-year college that I wouldn't have had if I had gone to a four-year school right out of high school.

    Just remember that college is what you make it.
    Great for these types of students

    It is great for students that are still unsure of what they want to do and for students that may struggle paying for college because they don't qualify for scholarships or because they have to pay for college on their own.

  • Brianna from Bryans Road, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    The professors are really kind at the College Of Southern Maryland. They look forward to patiently helping each student in their best ability. Each Lecture is step by step in order for students to obtain a complete understanding of all assignments. Also, there is enough time given to complete each assignment given and if you need help at any time, the professors are right by your side. Each class is worth wile the time spent.
    Am enjoying being here

    I enjoy being on campus. There's help everywhere you go. The library is open consistently in order for each student to complete all work necessary. Everything to computers, food, etc is all together and convenient to students. Also, the administration building is always welcoming students to come stop by to visit if they have any questions or concerns. Each student is able to complete everything they need to do for each class all in one day - everything is provided.
    Bang for the buck

    Any students or Parents that's paying tuition for anyone to attend the College Of Southern Maryland has chosen to make the best choice. CSM has so much to offer to students. Everything including help, tutoring, etc makes up for the money that has been paid. The services are great and no one is turned away by anything that they need to be accessed with.
    Tips for prospective students

    Today, many students believe that going to a community college isn't as wealthy as attending universities. They think is all about many parent's either not having enough money to send their children far away to state colleges/universities or students not getting the best education to get them closer to their career. There may be community colleges that aren't satisfying it's students, but that's one thing you can't say about CSM. CSM offers a lot to students and makes each student feel at home. The attitudes of the professors are really enjoyable and they're there to assist every students with their needs.
    Great for these types of students

    Students or adults who are looking to further their education or enroll in any extra curricular classes can do so right at the College Of Southern Maryland. The Cost is worth the education and service. It is convenient and room for everyone. You're able to meet others around campus who share friendly attitudes.

  • Kaitlin from Hughesville, MD

    Reviewer is A current student here.

    Categories Rating Comments
    Am learning a lot

    I am learning several new things at this college. A great thing about CSM is that they teach you new and efficient ways to understand hard concepts than what they did in high school. It's terrific.
    Am enjoying being here

    I enjoy being at CSM because not only are there a great range of academic classes and programs to be a part of, there are also great friends to be made here. The staff is also very helpful and I can approach my professors whenever I need help, unlike in highschool.
    Bang for the buck

    The College of CSM gives you more experience and value for your money and always have ways to save you money. Such as scholarships, book sales or wholesale buy backs.
    Tips for prospective students

    I would definitely advise coming to CSM because you save a lot of money by going to a community college first and then possibly transferring to a 4-year university. Get as many scholarships as you can. Apply for financial aid, it really helps to. Buy your books when they have book sales and sign up for classes asap, or all the classes you need will be filled up. See an academic advisor and talk with your high school guidance counselor.
    Great for these types of students

    This school is great for students who wish to save a little extra money on tuition and/or want to transfer to a four year university because it allows them to get their general education courses out of the way at a cheaper cost and then spend the big money on what they want to study for their career.