Best
Private Colleges in Maine in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Maine combines core business foundations with regional perspectives on tourism, healthcare, and small enterprise. Typical courses include accounting, economics, marketing, finance, management, business law, analytics, and entrepreneurship. Programs at the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Husson University, and Thomas College offer options for students seeking this degree. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as marketing coordinator, financial analyst, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, sales representative, or business owner locally.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Maine combines learning with opportunities to explore communities and mental health services. Typical courses include research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, cognition, and abnormal psychology. Students can pursue psychology at the University of Maine, the University of Southern Maine, Bowdoin College, Bates College, and Colby College. Graduates often work as case managers, behavioral health technicians, human resources specialists, research assistants, or community support workers; clinical practice usually requires advanced education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Maine combines programming and theory with practical problem-solving. Courses typically include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Students may pursue the degree at the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Bowdoin College, Colby College, or Bates College. Graduates commonly work as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, web developers, or IT consultants in industries including healthcare, finance, government, and technology.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Maine combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, multicultural practice, assessment, group counseling, and clinical skills with supervised fieldwork. Students may pursue school counseling, mental health counseling, or related graduate pathways. Maine colleges offering counseling study include the University of Maine, the University of Southern Maine, Husson University, and the University of New England. Graduates commonly work as mental health counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, or case managers.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Maine combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Students typically study anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, maternal-child health, mental health, and medical-surgical care. Programs are available at the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Husson University, University of New England, and Saint Joseph's College of Maine. Graduates commonly work as registered nurses in hospitals, clinics, long-term care facilities, schools, or public health agencies.

Best Colleges in Maine Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 42,650, compared with 66,660 for schools in the top 10%, a difference of 24,010.
• On average, 100% of students receive financial aid, compared with 59.7% at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate is 59.7%. Schools receive an average of 5,477.6 applicants, while top-10% schools average 13,857.2 applicants. The median number of male applicants is 1,007.5, compared with 1,427 female applicants.
• Average test scores are 1,295 on the SAT and 33 on the ACT.
• The average number of enrolled students is 2,413.25. Average enrollment is 153.89 men and 188.7 women.
• The average graduation rate is 64.42%, compared with 89.9% for top-10% schools. The median graduation rate is 59% for men and 68% for women.
• Six institutions offer associate's degrees, 12 offer bachelor's degrees, 10 offer master's degrees, and two offer doctor's degrees.
• Twelve schools are coeducational; zero are schools for men and zero are schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost with the availability of financial aid, and consider how acceptance rates and applicant numbers relate to your goals. Review graduation rates alongside test scores, enrollment, and degree offerings to identify schools that fit your academic plans.

How much does studying at a college in Maine cost?

The average total cost of studying in Maine is $41,826.36. For a student planning a degree, this is a useful statewide benchmark for budgeting, though your actual bill will depend on college, program, housing choice, and financial aid.

• Average tuition and fees: $43,732.91
• Average room and board: $16,414.89
• Average books and supplies: $932.22

Because these are separately reported averages, the categories may not add up to the total across colleges. At the University of Maine in Orono and colleges such as Bates, Bowdoin, and Colby, compare each school's published cost of attendance rather than relying on the statewide figure. Housing near campus, meal plans, transportation, and course materials can shift your budget. Ask financial aid offices about grants, scholarships, Maine-based aid, and payment options; your net cost may be lower than these averages. Planning early can make the process manageable and help you choose a program that fits your goals with confidence.

How long does it take to finish college in Maine?

Most students in Maine should plan on about four years to complete a bachelor's degree, or about two years for an associate degree. Actual timelines can vary with major requirements, course availability, part-time study, and work or family commitments. At the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, or a Maine community college, check each program's credit map early so you can plan confidently and avoid surprises.

Maine's average graduation rate is 64.42%, meaning completion is common but not automatic. Schools in the top 10% average 89.9%. Rates average 62.73% for men and 65.33% for women. These figures show that students do earn degrees, and planning and support can help you reach the finish line.

For a route that may save time, ask about summer classes, AP or dual-enrollment credit, transfer credit, and accelerated or online options. Verify that credits count toward your major; an adviser can help you build a schedule and graduate sooner.

Salary

After graduating from college in Maine, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $49,853. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is approximately $61,215 - a promising benchmark as you plan your career and finances.

Maine offers a range of college experiences, from the University of Maine and the University of Southern Maine to liberal arts colleges such as Bowdoin, Bates, and Colby. Your actual earnings will vary based on your field, experience, and career path, but these figures offer a helpful starting point for considering the opportunities a Maine degree may open up.

People also ask

What is the prettiest university in Maine?

"Prettiest" is subjective, but Bowdoin College is a strong choice. Its Brunswick campus pairs historic brick buildings and leafy greens with a classic New England feel, while the Maine coast is close by. If you're exploring colleges, visiting in different seasons can help you decide which campus feels most beautiful to you.

What is the most selective college in Maine?

Bowdoin College is generally considered Maine's most selective college. Its small incoming classes and large applicant pool make admission highly competitive, though acceptance rates vary from year to year. For a prospective Maine student, that's a reason to build a balanced college list - not a reason to rule yourself out. Strong applications tell a clear, personal story.

What is the richest university in Maine?

By institutional endowment, Bowdoin College is generally the richest college in Maine. Its endowment is valued in the billions of dollars, though the exact figure changes with investment performance and reporting dates. A large endowment can support campus programs and financial aid, but it doesn't automatically determine what any individual student will pay.

Top 5 Colleges in the Best Private Colleges Ranking in Maine Ranking in 2026-2027

Colby College, located in Waterville, offers Maine students a residential liberal arts education in a close-knit campus setting. It enrolls 2,360 students, has an 89% graduation rate, and admits 7% of applicants, making admission highly selective. Reported total study cost is $66,660, while median alumni salary is $53,589. Students considering Colby should weigh the substantial cost against its completion rate and small-college environment. Its central Maine location places students within reach of outdoor recreation and cultural experiences across the state.

Bowdoin College in Brunswick is a liberal arts college known for its undergraduate focus and coastal Maine setting. Its 1,841 enrolled students experience a 95% graduation rate, the highest among these five schools, alongside a 7% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $67,198, and median alumni salary is $56,615. For Maine applicants, Bowdoin combines a student community with highly selective admission. Compare its cost with financial aid offers, academic interests, and the value of studying near the state's southern coast.

Bates College, based in Lewiston, gives Maine students a liberal arts experience in a college environment. It enrolls 1,736 students, reports a 90% graduation rate, and accepts 13% of applicants. Its total study cost is $66,590, with median alumni salary of $49,127. The figures suggest selective admission and strong completion, while costs merit careful planning. Lewiston's location offers access to a Maine city and outdoor activities, making Bates worth exploring for students seeking close faculty engagement and an undergraduate education.

University of New England serves students across campuses in Biddeford and Portland, offering a larger, broad-based university experience in Maine. It enrolls 7,742 students, has a 68% graduation rate, and an acceptance rate of 92%, making admission less selective than at the other listed colleges. Total study cost is $42,650, and median alumni salary is $54,638. Prospective students can consider its range of academic pathways and coastal setting while comparing program fit, completion outcomes, and affordability for individual goals.

College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor offers an intimate college experience in a coastal Maine setting. With 344 enrolled students, it is the smallest school in the group; its graduation rate is 68%, and its acceptance rate is 70%. Total study cost is $47,448, while median alumni salary is $23,336. Students drawn to a small campus and environmental focus may find its setting appealing. Compare its outcomes and costs with priorities, career plans, and studying on the Maine coast.