Best Colleges in Maine
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Best Accredited Colleges
#1 Bowdoin College
Brunswick, ME
$24447
95%
Brunswick, ME
$24447
95%
Founded in 1794, Bowdoin College is the oldest institution of higher education in Maine and one of the best colleges in the state. Bowdoin was also the first college in the country to adopt a test-optional admission policy, which means prospective students are evaluated by their academic performance and community service activities instead of ACT or SAT scores. The college exclusively offers bachelor's degrees, with programs of study available in fields such as anthropology, digital and computational studies, neuroscience, and theater and dance. Bowdoin's curriculum emphasizes the importance of a liberal arts education, and all students take foundational courses in math, statistics, and exploring social difference. Currently, Bowdoin does not offer any online programs. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED. Bowdoin waives its application fee for first-generation college students. In addition, the college has replaced all student loans in its financial aid packages with grants, making it easier for low- and middle-income families to afford a college education.
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#2 Husson University
Bangor, ME
$19429
55%
Bangor, ME
$19429
55%
Of the more than 70 undergraduate and graduate programs available at Husson University, 19 feature accelerated tracks that allow students to earn their degree and advance in their careers at their own pace. Students can also pursue fully online degrees in areas such as business administration, data analytics, healthcare administration, and integrated technology. In addition to its online offerings, Husson maintains three campuses across Maine where students can explore subjects such as audio engineering, forensic science, hospitality management, and paralegal studies. As a supplement to their classroom learning, more than 95% of students at the university participate in at least one internship, practicum, or clinical learning experience. Applicant's to Husson's bachelor's programs must submit high school transcripts, ACT or SAT scores, one letter of recommendation, and a brief personal essay. The Trustee's Scholar Award provides up to $5,000 in annual aid to students with high entrance exam scores. Admission requirements for graduate programs vary; however, some require professional experience along with a bachelor's degree.
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#3 University of Maine at Machias
Machias, ME
$10257
32%
Machias, ME
$10257
32%
The University of Maine at Machias provides students affordable access to higher education. The university's Presidential Scholarship provides up to $4,000 each year to in-state students with a high school GPA of 3.0 or higher. Meanwhile, out-of-state students with a high school GPA above 3.5 may qualify to receive an Acadia Scholarship, worth up to $5,500 per year. Through its participation in the Tuition Break program, UMM offers the equivalent of in-state tuition to students from any New England state. Students at UMM can pursue either associate or bachelor's degrees in majors such as elementary education, engineering, and marine biology. The university also offers fully online degrees and certificates in business administration and psychology. Additionally, online and on-campus students can create a custom undergraduate program to suit their academic interests and professional goals. Admission to UMM requires a high school diploma or GED. Applicants must also submit ACT or SAT scores, a personal essay, and at least one letter of recommendation.
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#4 University of Maine at Fort Kent
Fort Kent, ME
$11686
35%
Fort Kent, ME
$11686
35%
Originally founded in 1878 as a teachers college, the University of Maine at Fort Kent offers undergraduate programs in behavioral science, conservation law enforcement, public safety administration, and allied health. Students can also pursue more than 10 fully online bachelor's degrees and certificates. The university's Learning Center is a comprehensive resource for students looking for academic support, including tutoring assistance, writing feedback, and personalized guidance for first-generation college students. Career coaches at the center also help connect learners with internship and work-study opportunities. All applicants must have a high school diploma or GED. While UMFK does not require prospective students to take the ACT or SAT, they must submit at least one letter of recommendation from a teacher or guidance counselor. Incoming students who plan to study on campus receive automatic consideration for Bengal Academic Scholarships. These awards, given on the basis of academic achievement, provide up to $5,000 per year to in-state, out-of-state, and transfer students.
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#5 Thomas College
Waterville, ME
$21606
48%
Waterville, ME
$21606
48%
Thomas College guarantees all graduates will find a job within six months of earning their degree. Those that do not find work can start a master's program at the college for free or have Thomas cover up to one year's worth of their student loan payments. To qualify, students must maintain at least a 3.0 GPA, participate in an internship, and complete professional and career development activities during their undergraduate studies. Undergraduate and graduate programs of study at Thomas cover subjects such as communications, criminal justice, political science, and sport management. The college also offers an accelerated three-year bachelor's program that allows students to graduate faster and save up to 25% on tuition and room and board. Applicants must submit high school transcripts and one letter of recommendation, but the school does not require entrance exam scores. Incoming students with a high school GPA of 3.7 or above qualify for a scholarship worth up to $17,500 per year.
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#6 University of Maine at Augusta
Augusta, ME
$11752
17%
Augusta, ME
$11752
17%
The University of Maine at Augusta first offered distance education courses in 1985. Today, the institution delivers more than 47,000 credit hours each year in an online format. Online students can choose degrees such as cybersecurity, justice studies, and mental health. Students can pursue these online degrees on their own schedule and from the comfort of their own home. Additionally, the university also offers online certificates and post-baccalaureate programs. Students who prefer the structure and support of the traditional classroom experience can study at one of the university's 11 campuses and learning centers spread across the state. Through either approach, students learn from expert faculty, receive extensive support, and participate in a range of experiential learning opportunities. Applicants must have a high school diploma or GED. If you have not taken the ACT or SAT, UMA requires that you complete the ACCUPLACER in order to determine whether you must take developmental courses prior to enrolling in a degree program.
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#7 University of Maine at Presque Isle
Presque Isle, ME
$9647
29%
Presque Isle, ME
$9647
29%
Students at the University of Maine at Presque Isle can design their own program of study, advance through coursework at their own pace, and choose the hands-on learning experiences that most closely align with their academic interests and career aspirations. UMPI also provides personalized career preparation support from enrollment to graduation. Although students have the flexibility to shape their own educational experience, they may also choose from a list of majors in areas such as energy development and policy, film studies, medical lab technology, and project management. Fully online degrees are also available in English, history, and psychology. More than 90% of the university's online instructors hold a Ph.D. or terminal degree in their field. Applicants must hold a high school diploma or GED and submit one letter of recommendation from a teacher or counselor. Prospective students do not need to submit ACT or SAT scores for admission, though applicants may need to submit test scores to qualify for certain merit-based scholarships.
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#8 Bates College
Lewiston, ME
$23312
92%
Lewiston, ME
$23312
92%
Bates College prepares graduates for graduate education or for careers in fields such as biochemistry, environmental studies, politics, and sociology. Community-engaged learning plays a central role at the college, and students across all programs participate in internships, volunteer work, and action research projects. Ninety-eight percent of Bates graduates enroll in graduate school or find a job within six months of completing their degree. The college's Center for Purposeful Work prepares learners to lead lives of impact. Students can take career assessments, participate in job shadow opportunities, find alumni mentors, and complete projects that allow them to connect their classroom learning to their post-graduation plans. Career counselors also provide personalized guidance on resumes, cover letters, and interview skills. Admission to Bates requires a high school diploma or GED and three letters of recommendation. Applicants may also submit ACT or SAT scores and participate in an interview with a college admissions officer.
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#9 College of the Atlantic
Bar Harbor, ME
$17213
66%
Bar Harbor, ME
$17213
66%
With just 350 students and 35 faculty members, the College of the Atlantic creates an intimate learning environment that encourages collaboration and intellectual risk. Each student at the college builds their own interdisciplinary course of study within the broader field of human ecology. For instance, students interested in careers in environmental policy may design a curriculum that includes courses in community planning, environmental law, and climate change and energy. At the end of their undergraduate studies, all COA students must also complete a senior project that synthesizes their learning and applies it to a real-world challenge. Examples of past capstones include a research study on the rise of Lyme disease in Maine, an oral history project focused on aging, and a podcast meant to introduce young children to biology and anatomy. Applying to the college requires a high school diploma or GED and three letters of recommendation. Prospective students may also elect to submit ACT or SAT scores or a portfolio of creative or professional work.
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#10 University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME
$11338
33%
Portland, ME
$11338
33%
In addition to its three campuses across southern Maine, the University of Southern Maine delivers fully online undergraduate and graduate programs in areas such as business administration, leadership and organizational studies, adult and higher education, and instructional technology. Students can also select one of three online minors or seek one of 10 online certificates. USM offers on-campus programs in subjects such as biology, computer science, economics, and linguistics. Regardless of how they choose to study, USM students receive free access to tutoring, academic advising, career counseling, and research and writing assistance. Additionally, the university's Portland campus is home to the Maine School of Law, the only accredited law school in the state. Undergraduate applicants must have a high school diploma or GED, while graduate applicants need a bachelor's degree. Prospective students must also submit results from an entrance exam, such as the ACT, SAT, or GRE. On top of tuition discounts to residents of any New England state, USM offers more than $12M annually in merit- and need-based scholarships.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are the best colleges in Maine?
Some of the best colleges in Maine include Bowdoin College, Colby College, Bates College, University of Maine, and Maine Maritime Academy.
2. How do I apply to colleges in Maine?
To apply to colleges in Maine, you typically need to complete an online application, submit your high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, letters of recommendation, and a personal essay. Each college may have specific requirements, so it's important to check their websites for detailed instructions.
3. What majors and programs are offered at colleges in Maine?
Colleges in Maine offer a wide range of majors and programs. Some popular areas of study include business, engineering, computer science, environmental studies, marine biology, liberal arts, and nursing. It's best to explore the websites of individual colleges to see the full list of majors and programs they offer.
4. How much does tuition cost at colleges in Maine?
Tuition costs vary depending on the college and program of study. On average, tuition for in-state students at public colleges in Maine is around $10,000 to $15,000 per year, while out-of-state students may pay around $25,000 to $35,000 per year. Private colleges tend to have higher tuition rates, ranging from $30,000 to $60,000 per year.
5. Are there scholarships and financial aid available for students attending colleges in Maine?
Yes, many colleges in Maine offer scholarships and financial aid to help students with their tuition costs. These can be merit-based scholarships, need-based grants, or work-study opportunities. It's important to research and apply for scholarships and financial aid early in the college application process.
6. What is the student-to-faculty ratio at colleges in Maine?
The student-to-faculty ratio varies among colleges in Maine. Generally, smaller liberal arts colleges have lower student-to-faculty ratios, often around 10:1 or even lower. Larger universities may have ratios closer to 15:1 or higher. It's best to check the specific college's website for their student-to-faculty ratio.
7. What is campus life like at colleges in Maine?
Campus life in Maine colleges offers a mix of academic, social, and extracurricular activities. Students can participate in clubs, sports teams, community service, research projects, and various campus events. Maine's natural beauty also provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, skiing, and exploring the coastline.
8. Can I visit the campuses of colleges in Maine?
Yes, most colleges in Maine offer campus tours and information sessions for prospective students. It's highly recommended to visit the campuses you are interested in to get a feel for the environment, meet current students and faculty, and ask any questions you may have.
9. What are the job prospects for graduates of colleges in Maine?
Job prospects for graduates of colleges in Maine vary depending on the field of study. Maine has a strong job market in industries such as healthcare, education, technology, tourism, and marine sciences. Many colleges also have career services departments that assist students with internships, job placements, and networking opportunities.
10. Can international students apply to colleges in Maine?
Yes, international students can apply to colleges in Maine. Each college may have specific requirements for international applicants, including English language proficiency tests such as TOEFL or IELTS. It's important to check the college's website for detailed information on international admissions.