“Two hundred years ago, MICA was founded on a bold belief: that creativity matters. On January 10, 1826, the State of Maryland granted a charter to the Maryland Institute for the Promotion of the Mechanic Arts. MICA’s founders had a powerful vision for this city and for a growing nation. They understood that creativity in the fields of drafting, architecture, and the mechanical arts required rigorous education to make a transformational difference in the lives of young people. They believed training could shape culture, drive innovation, and strengthen the economy. That singular belief is what has carried MICA through generations of change.

“MICA was among Maryland's earliest — and in some cases, the very first — college to offer education in applied science, technology, and engineering. Even predating formal engineering programs, MICA also pioneered some of the state's earliest integrations of science, technology and design to support workforce training for the railroad industry.”

—President Cecilia M. McCormick, JD, from her remarks at MICA’s Bicentennial Kickoff Celebration on Wednesday, January 21, 2026.

MICA's Bicentennial: Celebrating Two Centuries

Join the festivities as MICA honors its 200-year history, recognizes its present success, and looks forward to a bright future. Throughout 2026, the College will be sharing community stories and announcing one-of-a-kind events on campus, in Baltimore, and beyond.

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