The Office of Communications and Public Affairs partners with you to bring your ideas to life. We provide creative and strategic support across design, writing, web, photography, videography, and marketing, helping you communicate clearly and make an impact.

If you're not sure where to start, email CommunicationsMarketing@umaryland.edu and we'll connect you with the right person or set up an initial conversation.

All projects require a work request form< before work can begin.

This ensures we have the details needed to scope your project, provide accurate timelines, and allocate resources effectively.

We work collaboratively and keep projects moving through regular updates, drafts, and check-ins.

To stay on schedule, we ask that you respond in a timely manner.

  • If we don’t hear back for 4 weeks, the project will be closed.
  • A new work request will be required to restart.

To maintain high-quality work, most projects begin with a projected three-week timeline.

  • Some projects may be completed sooner
  • Larger or more complex projects may take longer
  • If you have a specific deadline, let us know in your request along with the reason

This helps us plan appropriately and determine whether adjustments or rush options are needed.

Need something faster?

  • Projects needed within one week or less are considered rush requests
  • Rush fees start at $125
  • Availability is not guaranteed

If you anticipate a rush project, note it in your work request. We’ll confirm feasibility and provide an exact quote.

OCPA partners with campus units, including schools, to provide a range of paid services. Below, you'll find an overview of how projects work, along with typical timelines and fees, so you know what to expect from the start.

If you're not sure how long your project might take, you can submit a work request and select This is an estimate. We'll review the details and follow up with guidance to help you plan next steps.

Service Timeline

UMB Offices and Units Fees

Schools and Other Areas Fees

Design 3 weeks (depending on the scope of the project) Non-billable $75 per hour
Design Schemes 4-6 weeks (depending on the scope of the project) Non-billable (some fees may apply) Starting at $500
Photography 3 business days notice before service
10 business days to get photos back to you
$67.50 per hour $135 per hour
Portraits 3 business days notice before service
10 business days to get photos back to you
$25 person (under 8 people) $25 person (under 8 people)
Videography 3 business days notice before service $67.50 per hour $135 per hour
Drone Video 3 business days notice before service $80 per hour $160 per hour
Writing and Editorial 3 weeks
(depending on the scope of the project)
Non-billable $75 per hour
Social Media Coverage 3 business days notice before service -- $75 per hour
Reprint/ Coordination 1 Week
(printing time may vary)
Non-billable $37.50
Web 3 weeks
(depending on the scope of the project)
Non-billable $75 per hour
Other Services 3 weeks
(depending on the scope of the project)
-- $75 per hour

Please note that outside vendor costs, such as, but not limited to, stock imagery and printing services, are to be paid by the client. If a project has other costs associated with it, OCPA will still need the billing information.

Any external expenses such as printing or stock imagery are the responsibility of the client. If your project includes outside costs, we'll coordinate with you and collect billing information as needed.

How It Works

No matter your area, our process is designed to be clear, collaborative, and efficient.

Submit a Work Request

Start by submitting a work request with your project details, including content, images, timelines, and any known requirements.

We Review and Plan

Our team reviews your request, confirms scope, and follows up with any questions or next steps.

Project Timeline

Most projects take about three weeks, depending on scope. If you have a specific deadline, let us know. We’ll work with you to plan accordingly.

Review and Feedback

You’ll receive drafts to review and provide feedback. We’ll work with you to refine the project and ensure it meets your goals.

Final Delivery

Once approved, we’ll finalize and deliver your project.

Communication Expectations

We work collaboratively and keep projects moving through regular updates, drafts, and check-ins.

To stay on schedule, we ask that you respond in a timely manner.

  • If we don’t hear back for 4 weeks, the project will be closed.
  • A new work request will be required to restart.