List of Universities in Maine: A Comprehensive Guide to Higher Education Options
Maine, known for its stunning coastline, picturesque mountains, and rich history, offers a diverse range of higher education institutions tailored to meet the academic aspirations of students from all backgrounds. From prestigious research universities to specialized colleges, the state’s academic landscape provides ample opportunities for intellectual growth and professional development.
Public Universities
University of Maine System
- University of Maine, Orono: The flagship university of the system, UMaine offers over 100 undergraduate and graduate programs in various disciplines, including agriculture, engineering, and business. With a vibrant research environment and renowned faculty, UMaine ranks among the top research universities in the nation.
- University of Maine at Augusta: Known for its affordability and flexible programs, UMA provides undergraduate and graduate degrees in education, healthcare, and other high-demand fields. The university emphasizes experiential learning and offers personalized support to students.
- University of Maine at Farmington: Located in the scenic western Maine town of Farmington, UMF offers undergraduate and graduate programs in liberal arts, sciences, and teacher education. The university’s small class sizes and dedicated faculty foster a close-knit and supportive learning environment.
- University of Maine at Fort Kent: Situated in the northern Aroostook County, UMFK provides undergraduate degrees in education, healthcare, and social services. The university serves a diverse student population and offers affordable tuition rates.
- University of Maine at Machias: Located on the coast of Down East Maine, UMM offers undergraduate degrees in environmental studies, marine sciences, and teacher education. The university’s unique location provides ample opportunities for experiential learning in natural resources and environmental conservation.
- University of Maine at Presque Isle: Nestled in the heart of Aroostook County, UMPI offers undergraduate degrees in education, healthcare, and business. The university emphasizes hands-on learning and offers a supportive and welcoming campus environment.
Maine Maritime Academy
Located in Castine, Maine, Maine Maritime Academy is a nationally recognized institution dedicated to the maritime industry. The academy offers undergraduate degrees in engineering, transportation, and marine science. Graduates of MMA are highly sought after by employers in marine-related fields.
Private Universities
Bowdoin College
Founded in 1794, Bowdoin College is a prestigious liberal arts college located in Brunswick, Maine. The college offers a rigorous academic program with a focus on critical thinking, problem-solving, and global perspectives. Bowdoin has consistently ranked among the top liberal arts colleges in the United States.
Colby College
Colby College is a private liberal arts college located in Waterville, Maine. The college offers a wide range of undergraduate programs in the arts, sciences, and social sciences. Colby is known for its innovative academic programs, including the Davis United World College Scholars Program, which provides scholarships to international students from underrepresented countries.
Maine College of Art & Design
Located in Portland, Maine, Maine College of Art & Design is a specialized institution dedicated to visual arts and design. The college offers undergraduate and graduate programs in fine arts, digital media, and photography. MECA is renowned for its innovative curriculum and emphasis on practical experience.
Husson University
Husson University is a private university located in Bangor, Maine. The university offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, healthcare, and education. Husson is known for its practical and career-focused programs, which prepare students for success in the workforce.
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Located in Standish, Maine, Saint Joseph’s College of Maine is a private, Catholic liberal arts college. The college offers undergraduate and graduate programs in the arts, sciences, and social sciences. Saint Joseph’s is known for its commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Thomas College
Thomas College is a private, liberal arts college located in Waterville, Maine. The college offers undergraduate and graduate programs in business, education, and social sciences. Thomas College emphasizes experiential learning and community engagement.
Specialized Colleges
Bangor Theological Seminary
Located in Bangor, Maine, Bangor Theological Seminary is a graduate school dedicated to theological education. The seminary offers graduate degrees in divinity, ministry, and religious education. BTS is known for its interfaith approach to religious studies and its commitment to social justice.
Maine Law
Maine Law is a private law school located in Portland, Maine. The law school offers a three-year Juris Doctor degree program and a two-year Master of Laws degree program. Maine Law is known for its experiential learning opportunities and its commitment to public service.
Southern Maine Community College
Located in South Portland, Maine, Southern Maine Community College is a two-year institution that offers associate degrees and certificate programs in a variety of fields, including healthcare, business, and education. SMCC is known for its affordable tuition rates and its flexible scheduling options.
Comparison of Universities
To help prospective students make informed decisions about their higher education options, the following tables provide a comparison of the key features of the universities in Maine:
| University | Location | Type | Size | Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Maine, Orono | Orono | Public | 11,000 | $12,500 |
| University of Maine at Augusta | Augusta | Public | 3,500 | $9,000 |
| University of Maine at Farmington | Farmington | Public | 2,000 | $8,500 |
| University of Maine at Fort Kent | Fort Kent | Public | 1,000 | $7,500 |
| University of Maine at Machias | Machias | Public | 1,200 | $8,000 |
| University of Maine at Presque Isle | Presque Isle | Public | 2,500 | $9,000 |
| Maine Maritime Academy | Castine | Public | 900 | $15,000 |
| Bowdoin College | Brunswick | Private | 1,800 | $55,000 |
| Colby College | Waterville | Private | 2,000 | $52,000 |
| Maine College of Art & Design | Portland | Private | 400 | $35,000 |
| Husson University | Bangor | Private | 3,000 | $25,000 |
| Saint Joseph’s College of Maine | Standish | Private | 1,500 | $30,000 |
| Thomas College | Waterville | Private | 2,000 | $32,000 |
| Bangor Theological Seminary | Bangor | Private | 200 | $18,000 |
| Maine Law | Portland | Private | 250 | $38,000 |
| Southern Maine Community College | South Portland | Public | 6,000 | $8,500 |
| University | Academic Profile | Research Activity | Student Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Maine, Orono | High research activity | Carnegie R1 | Over 300 student clubs and organizations |
| University of Maine at Augusta | Moderate research activity | Carnegie R3 | Over 50 student clubs and organizations |
| University of Maine at Farmington | Low research activity | Carnegie R4 | Over 25 student clubs and organizations |
| University of Maine at Fort Kent | Low research activity | Carnegie R4 | Over 15 student clubs and organizations |
| University of Maine at Machias | Low research activity | Carnegie R4 | Over 10 student clubs and organizations |
| University of Maine at Presque Isle | Low research activity | Carnegie R4 | Over 20 student clubs and organizations |
| Maine Maritime Academy | High research activity | None | Over 50 student clubs and organizations |
| Bowdoin College | High research activity | Carnegie R1 | Over 100 student clubs and organizations |
| Colby College | High research activity | Carnegie R1 | Over 90 student clubs and organizations |
| Maine College of Art & Design | Moderate research activity | None | Over 40 student clubs and organizations |
| Husson University | Moderate research activity | None | Over 70 student clubs and organizations |
| Saint Joseph’s College of Maine | Low research activity | None | Over 40 student clubs and organizations |
| Thomas College | Low research activity | None | Over 45 student clubs and organizations |
| Bangor Theological Seminary | Low research activity | None | Over 10 student clubs and organizations |
| Maine Law | Moderate research activity | None | Over 20 student clubs and organizations |
| Southern Maine Community College | Low research activity | None | Over 60 student clubs and organizations |
| University | Career Outcomes | Rankings | Noteworthy Programs |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Maine, Orono | High employment rate | Top 100 public universities | Engineering, business, education |
| University of Maine at Augusta | Moderate employment rate | Top 200 regional universities | Nursing, social work, business |
| University of Maine at Farmington | Moderate employment rate | Top 200 regional universities | Education, liberal arts, environmental studies |
| University of Maine at Fort Kent | Moderate employment rate | Top 200 regional universities | Education, nursing, social work |
| University of Maine at Machias | Moderate employment rate |
