Best
Public Colleges in Maine in 2027

Business Administration

Business administration programs in Maine connect practical coursework with regional industries, including tourism, healthcare, manufacturing and small business. Typical courses cover accounting, economics, management, marketing, finance, business law, analytics and entrepreneurship. Projects and internships develop communication, leadership and problem-solving skills. Graduates often become business analysts, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, accountants, sales representatives or operations managers. Maine colleges include the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Husson University and Thomas College, among other options.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Maine offers opportunities at institutions such as the University of Maine, the University of Southern Maine, Bates College, Bowdoin College, and Colby College. Typical courses include introductory psychology, research methods, statistics, developmental psychology, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Graduates with a bachelor's degree may pursue roles such as research assistant, case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources specialist, or community support worker. Licensed counseling and clinical psychology careers generally require graduate study.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Maine combines foundational theory with hands-on problem-solving and access to the state's universities and liberal arts colleges. Typical coursework includes programming, data structures, algorithms, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Popular options include the University of Maine, the University of Southern Maine, Bowdoin College, Bates College, and Colby College. Graduates commonly pursue careers as software developers, web developers, systems analysts, data scientists, or cybersecurity specialists, applying technical skills across industries.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Maine combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, lifespan development, assessment, multicultural practice, group counseling, and research methods with supervised fieldwork. Programs may prepare students for licensure, depending on degree level and state requirements. Popular Maine options include the University of Southern Maine, the University of Maine, Husson University, and the University of New England. Graduates commonly pursue roles as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, mental health clinicians, or substance-use counselors.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Maine combines learning with hands-on clinical experience in hospitals and community settings. Courses commonly include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, nursing fundamentals, and maternal, pediatric, mental health, and medical-surgical nursing. Graduates of associate or bachelor's programs often qualify for registered nurse licensure and work in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, schools, or public health. Maine options include the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Husson University, and University of New England.

Best Colleges in Maine Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying was 21,750.0, compared with 30,973.2 at schools in the top 10%.
• An average of 99.4% of students received financial aid, higher than the 87.5% average at top-10% schools.
• The average acceptance rate was 87.5%. Schools received an average of 4,002.17 applicants, compared with 9,933.0 at top-10% schools; the median numbers of male and female applicants were 755.5 and 706.5, respectively.
• The average SAT score was 1,141.5 and the average ACT score was 24.0.
• Schools averaged 2,864.0 enrolled students. The average numbers of enrolled men and women were 288.83 and 284.33, respectively.
• The average graduation rate was 46.14%, compared with 56.2% at top-10% schools. The median graduation rate was 40.0% for men and 53.0% for women.
• Five institutions offered associate's degrees, seven offered bachelor's degrees, seven offered master's degrees, and two offered doctor's degrees.
• There were seven coeducational schools, zero schools for men, and zero schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside acceptance rates and academic measures such as SAT and ACT scores. Also consider graduation outcomes - including the differences in reported rates for men and women - and whether the available degree levels and school setting suit your goals.

How much does studying at a college in Maine cost?

The average annual cost of studying in Maine is $22,848.86, a helpful starting point for planning your degree. At that average, four years would come to about $91,395.44 before any financial aid, although your actual costs may differ by school, program, and living arrangements. Tuition and fees average $11,334.29, while room and board average $12,100.17 and books and supplies average $1,018. These figures are statewide averages, so they may not add up to the total for any individual student.

Your experience will depend on where you study. The University of Maine is a public university option, while Bowdoin, Bates, and Colby are well-known private colleges; their prices and available aid can vary considerably. When comparing schools, check each college's estimated cost of attendance and ask about grants, scholarships, and housing choices. Living at home or finding aid could make pursuing a degree feel more manageable, and comparing net costs - not just tuition - can help you find a Maine college that fits your goals and budget.

How long does it take to finish college in Maine?

Most full-time students in Maine need about four years to earn a bachelor's degree; an associate degree commonly takes two years. At the University of Maine in Orono or the University of Southern Maine, your timeline depends on major requirements, class availability, and whether you study full time.

Across reported Maine colleges, the average graduation rate is 46.14%; among the top 10% of schools, it is 56.2%. The averages are 39.86% for men and 53.43% for women. These figures show many students finish, but planning, advising, and steady progress matter.

You may finish sooner by bringing in AP or transfer credits, taking summer courses, or using prior-learning exams such as CLEP. Check college credit-transfer rules before enrolling; credits count only when they fit your degree plan. Students at UMaine or USM can ask an adviser to map prerequisites and course sequences, helping avoid missed classes and making graduation feel achievable.

Salary

After graduating from college in Maine, you can expect a median alumni salary of about $49,496. For graduates of schools in the top 10%, the median is approximately $87,155 - a promising indicator of the earning potential a degree can offer.

Your actual earnings will vary depending on your field, experience, and employer. If you're considering popular Maine schools such as the University of Maine, Bowdoin College, Bates College, or Colby College, compare programs and career-support opportunities alongside tuition to find a path that fits your goals.

People also ask

What is the most prestigious college in Maine?

Bowdoin College in Brunswick is often regarded as Maine's most prestigious college, thanks to its long history, selective admissions, and strong national reputation in the liberal arts. "Most prestigious" is subjective, though: Bates College and Colby College are also highly respected. Visiting campuses can help you find the best fit beyond reputation.

Which city in Maine has the best public schools?

There isn't one universally agreed-upon answer, since school rankings depend on factors such as test results, student support, and individual needs. Falmouth, Cape Elizabeth, and Yarmouth are Maine communities often recognized for strong public schools, though they are towns rather than cities. Compare specific schools and districts to find the right match.

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

At 7,581 enrolled students, the University of Southern Maine offers a comparatively large campus community across southern Maine, with access to Portland-area culture and employment. Its 79% acceptance rate may appeal to applicants seeking an accessible route to a degree. The reported graduation rate is 40%, so ask about advising and completion support. Total study cost is $27,030, while median alumni salary is $50,758. For Maine residents, compare aid offers and commuting or housing costs before making an informed choice.

Maine Maritime Academy is a small, specialized college in coastal Castine, known for maritime education and hands-on preparation for marine and engineering careers. Its 997 enrolled students create a close-knit learning environment. The 54% acceptance rate is selective compared with the other schools listed, and its 58% graduation rate is the highest here. Studying costs $27,762; median alumni salary is $110,590, the strongest outcome in this group. Maine students drawn to shipboard training should investigate program requirements and aid options.

The University of Maine, the state's flagship university in Orono, offers a broad range of undergraduate study and a campus setting in central Maine. The source reports 591 enrolled students, a figure prospective applicants may wish to verify because it is unusually small for a flagship. Its 97% acceptance rate indicates broad access, while graduation is 55%. Total study cost is $35,790, the highest listed, and median alumni salary is $49,496. Compare financial aid, housing, and travel costs across Maine.

University of Maine at Farmington is a liberal arts college in western Maine, offering a smaller-campus experience with a focus on undergraduate learning. It enrolls 2,113 students and reports a 97% acceptance rate, making admission accessible. Its graduation rate is 52%. The study cost of $21,750 is lower than those of three schools listed, while median alumni salary is $40,523. For Maine students, Farmington's location may suit those seeking a community and outdoor recreation; compare aid and living expenses.

The University of Maine at Fort Kent is a university in northern Maine, serving a rural region near the Canadian border. Its 1,564 enrolled students support a smaller-campus atmosphere, and its 98% acceptance rate is the most open among these five institutions. Graduation is 39%, the lowest reported, so investigate academic advising and retention services. Total study cost is $13,260, the lowest listed; median alumni salary is $71,532. For Maine residents, consider distance, transportation, and available support when weighing affordability.