Best
Value Colleges in Maine in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Maine combines coursework in accounting, finance, marketing, management, economics, and business analytics with practical projects and internships. Students may explore entrepreneurship, organizational behavior, human resources, and operations. Popular options include the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Husson University, Thomas College, and the University of New England. Graduates commonly pursue roles such as business analyst, marketing coordinator, account manager, human resources specialist, operations supervisor, or small-business owner across Maine's economy.

Psychology

In Maine, psychology students explore human behavior through courses in research methods, statistics, cognitive psychology, developmental psychology, social psychology, and abnormal psychology. Popular options include the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Bates College, Bowdoin College, Colby College, and the University of New England. A bachelor's degree can prepare graduates for roles such as research assistant, case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources specialist, or social services worker; licensed psychologist positions require graduate education.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Maine combines programming foundations with opportunities to explore technology locally. Courses commonly include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, computer systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Graduates pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or IT project managers. Maine colleges offering computer science include the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Bowdoin College, Bates College, and Colby College. Students can build skills through projects and internships.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Maine combines theory with supervised practice. Courses cover counseling techniques, human development, ethics, diagnosis, group counseling, multicultural perspectives, and research methods. Programs may require internships and licensure preparation. Graduates pursue work as licensed mental health counselors, school counselors, or substance use counselors, depending on their training and credentials. Maine colleges offering counseling study include the University of Southern Maine, Husson University, and the University of Maine. Compare curricula, accreditation, and placement opportunities when choosing a program.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Maine blends classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals, clinics, and communities. Typical courses include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, nursing fundamentals, pharmacology, adult health, mental health, and community nursing. Graduates commonly pursue registered nurse jobs in hospitals, long-term care, public health, or primary care after licensure. Maine colleges with nursing programs include the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, University of New England, Husson University, and Maine College of Health Professions.

Best Colleges in Maine Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 29,240, compared with 66,611 at schools in the top 10% - a difference of 37,371.
• On average, 100% of students receive financial aid, while the average among top 10% schools is 70.12%.
• The average acceptance rate is 70.12%. Schools receive an average of 4,924.31 applicants, compared with 13,654.5 applicants at schools in the top 10%.
• The median number of applicants is 865.5 men and 1,116 women.
• Average test scores are 1,218.25 on the SAT and 27 on the ACT.
• Schools average 2,579.32 enrolled students, including 207.87 men and 224.56 women.
• The average graduation rate is 57.68%, compared with 89.2% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 51.5% for men and 63% for women.
• There are 11 institutions offering associate's degrees, 19 offering bachelor's degrees, 17 offering master's degrees, and 4 offering doctor's degrees.
• There are 19 coeducational schools, 0 schools for men, and 0 schools for women.
• When choosing a college, compare total cost and financial aid alongside graduation rates, admissions figures, test scores, degree offerings, and enrollment. The figures show that lower median costs and higher average financial aid coexist with lower average graduation rates than those of top 10% schools, so weigh affordability against graduation outcomes and your academic preferences.

How much does studying at a college in Maine cost?

The reported average total cost of studying in Maine is $34,446.22, a useful starting point as you plan for a degree close to home. Tuition and fees average $31,133.44, while room and board average $14,689 and books and supplies add about $962.86. These figures are separate averages, so don't add them to estimate the reported total; costs vary by school, program, and living arrangement. At the University of Maine in Orono, you can explore a large public-university experience, while Bowdoin, Bates, and Colby offer well-known private-college options. Your actual bill may differ based on residency, financial aid, housing, and course materials. Maine students can make planning feel more manageable by comparing each college's net price after grants and scholarships, checking whether living at home is practical, and asking about payment plans. With a clear budget, you can focus on finding a campus and degree path that feel exciting and sustainable.

How long does it take to finish college in Maine?

Most full-time students in Maine need about four years to complete a bachelor's degree, while an associate degree usually takes two years; part-time study can take longer. At the University of Maine in Orono or the University of Southern Maine, your timeline depends on credits completed each term, major requirements, and course availability. Finishing sooner is possible with planning and support.

Across Maine institutions, the average graduation rate is 57.68%; among the top 10% of schools, it reaches 89.2%. Average rates are 53.83% for men and 60.95% for women. These figures can encourage you to compare advising, affordability, and completion support - not predict your individual result.

To shorten your path:

• Ask whether AP/IB, dual-enrollment, transfer, or military credits apply.
• Take summer courses or heavier loads when manageable, and map prerequisites with an adviser.
• Explore accelerated or online options; keep work manageable so progress feels sustainable.

Salary

Graduates of colleges and universities in Maine have a median alumni salary of $49,496. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $66,346 - a promising benchmark as you consider where and what to study.

Maine offers options ranging from the University of Maine to private colleges such as Bowdoin, Bates, and Colby. Your own earning potential will depend on factors such as your field, experience, and where you work after graduation, so use these figures as broad guideposts rather than a guaranteed starting salary.

People also ask

What college in Maine has the lowest tuition?

There isn't one clear answer without specifying the type of college and whether you qualify for in-state tuition. Maine's community colleges generally offer the lowest tuition for Maine residents, and they share a systemwide tuition rate. If you're looking for a four-year public university, the University of Maine at Presque Isle is often among the more affordable options. Compare total costs, including fees and housing, before deciding.

What are Tier 1 schools in Maine?

"Tier 1" can mean different things, so there isn't a single official list of Maine schools by that label. If you mean a Carnegie Research 1 university, the University of Maine is the state's R1 institution, reflecting its high level of research activity. If you mean a college-ranking tier, the answer depends on which ranking system and year you're using.

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

Colby College, located in Waterville, offers a small-college setting in central Maine, with 2,360 enrolled students. Its 7% acceptance rate makes admission highly selective, while its 89% graduation rate suggests strong completion outcomes. The reported total study cost is $66,660, so compare financial aid and living expenses before deciding. Median alumni salary is $53,589. For a Maine-based student, Waterville provides an in-state option and access to the state's communities, while campus size may appeal if you want a close-knit environment.

Bowdoin College in Brunswick enrolls 1,841 students and combines a small liberal arts college profile with a coastal Maine location. Its 7% acceptance rate signals highly selective admission, and its 95% graduation rate is the highest among these five schools. The reported total cost of study is $67,198; median alumni salary is $56,615. For Maine residents, Brunswick offers an in-state college option near the coast. Consider affordability, aid, and preferred campus setting alongside these outcome figures when comparing academic programs.

Bates College, based in Lewiston, is a small liberal arts college in southern Maine with 1,736 enrolled students. It admits 13% of applicants, a less restrictive rate than Colby and Bowdoin, and reports a 90% graduation rate. Total study cost is $66,590, while median alumni salary is $49,127. For students living in Maine, Lewiston offers an in-state location and a setting rooted in its community. Compare financial aid and majors, since these figures alone do not show the cost each student will ultimately pay.

Maine Maritime Academy in Castine is a specialized maritime college on Maine's coast, enrolling 997 students. Its 54% acceptance rate is the most accessible among these five institutions, while its 58% graduation rate is lower than the others listed. Total cost of study is $27,762, and median alumni salary is $110,590, the highest figure here. For Maine students interested in maritime-focused education, Castine offers a distinctive in-state setting; review program requirements and costs to assess fit with personal and career goals.

The University of Southern Maine, with campuses in Portland, Gorham, and Lewiston, is a public university serving 7,581 students. Its 79% acceptance rate is the highest in this group, while its 40% graduation rate is the lowest reported. Total study cost is $27,030, and median alumni salary is $50,758. For a Maine-based student, its multiple campuses offer choices across the state's southern region. Compare majors, commute options, and financial aid, since figures cannot predict an individual student's experience or expenses.