Best
Colleges in Maine in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Maine combines business skills with opportunities in tourism, healthcare, manufacturing, and finance. Students typically take courses in accounting, economics, marketing, management, business law, finance, entrepreneurship, and data analytics. Maine colleges offering this field include the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Husson University, Thomas College, and Saint Joseph's College of Maine. Graduates commonly pursue roles as business analysts, marketing coordinators, financial associates, human resources specialists, operations supervisors, or entrepreneurs.

Psychology

Studying psychology in Maine offers coursework in research methods, developmental psychology, abnormal behavior, cognition, statistics, and social psychology. Students build skills in observation, communication, and data analysis through classes and research opportunities. Popular colleges include University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Bowdoin College, Bates College, and Colby College. Graduates pursue roles such as case manager, behavioral health technician, human resources assistant, research assistant, or social services worker. Clinical careers require graduate study and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Maine combines programming and problem-solving with opportunities to explore technology across the state. Typical courses include algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, operating systems, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Graduates commonly pursue work as software developers, systems analysts, cybersecurity specialists, data analysts, or IT consultants. Popular study options include the University of Maine, the University of Southern Maine, Bowdoin College, Bates College, and Colby College, offering distinct academic experiences within local communities.

Counseling

Studying a counseling program in Maine combines coursework in counseling theories, ethics, human development, assessment, multicultural practice, and supervised fieldwork. Programs often prepare students for licensure pathways, though requirements vary by degree and specialty. Graduates may pursue roles as school counselors, mental health counselors, substance-use counselors, or career counselors. Popular Maine options include the University of Southern Maine, Husson University, and the University of Maine, with program offerings spanning counseling specialties and graduate degree levels.

Nursing

Studying nursing in Maine offers pathways from practical nursing certificates to bachelor's and graduate degrees. Common coursework includes anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, health assessment, maternal-child nursing, mental health, and clinical practice. Graduates may work as registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nurse educators, or advanced practice clinicians, depending on credentials. Popular Maine schools include the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, University of New England, Husson University, and Saint Joseph's College of Maine.

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%.
• On average, 100% of students receive financial aid, while the average at 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 at top-10% schools. The median numbers of male and female applicants are 865.5 and 1,116, respectively.
• Average SAT and ACT scores are 1,218.25 and 27, respectively.
• Average enrollment is 2,579.32 students; average enrollment figures for men and women are 207.87 and 224.56, respectively.
• The average graduation rate is 57.68%, compared with 89.2% at top-10% schools. Median graduation rates are 51.5% for men and 63% for women.
• Among the institutions represented, 11 offer associate's degrees, 19 offer bachelor's degrees, 17 offer master's degrees, and 4 offer 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 selectivity, and available degree levels. The figures show that top-10% schools have higher median costs and graduation rates, while the overall average financial-aid rate is higher; consider which factors best match your academic goals and budget.

How much does studying at a college in Maine cost?

The average total cost of studying in Maine is $34,446.22, a starting point for planning your budget. Average tuition and fees are $31,133.44, while average room and board is $14,689. Books and supplies average $962.86. These figures provide a statewide snapshot; your actual bill can differ depending on the college, housing choice, aid, and program.

For a Maine student, options such as the University of Maine in Orono, Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Bates College in Lewiston, and Colby College in Waterville offer campus experiences. The statewide averages are not individual price quotes for those institutions, so compare their tuition and fees and financial-aid offers. Scholarships, grants, commuting from home, or choosing campus housing can change what you pay. Start with the $34,446.22 average, then build a school-specific budget for tuition, living costs, books, and transportation. With a comparison, you can find an option that feels both exciting and financially manageable.

How long does it take to finish college in Maine?

In Maine, a bachelor's degree usually takes four years of full-time study; an associate degree often takes two. At institutions such as the University of Maine, Bowdoin College, and Bates College, your timeline depends on your program, course availability, and whether you study full time.

A degree can take longer if you attend part time, change majors, or need to repeat courses, so planning with an academic adviser can help you stay on track. Maine's average graduation rate is 57.68%, while the average among the top 10% of schools is 89.2%. The average rate is 53.83% for men and 60.95% for women, showing outcomes vary; these figures describe graduation, not a guarantee for any one student.

You can sometimes shorten the timeline through:

• Using AP, IB, or dual-enrollment credits accepted by your college
• Taking summer courses or heavier course loads when manageable
• Transferring eligible credits or choosing an accelerated program

Salary

College graduates in Maine earn a median alumni salary of about $49,496. At schools in the top 10% by alumni salary, the median is about $66,346 - a promising benchmark as you consider how a degree could support your future.

• These figures are statewide benchmarks, not salary guarantees or earnings specific to a particular college or major.
• Popular Maine options include the University of Maine in Orono, Bates College in Lewiston, Bowdoin College in Brunswick, and Colby College in Waterville.
• Your eventual earnings can vary with your field, experience, and location, so compare programs and career paths as you choose where to study.

People also ask

What are the three biggest colleges in Maine?

By student enrollment, the largest are generally the University of Maine in Orono, the University of Southern Maine, and Southern Maine Community College in South Portland. Recent enrollment figures put them at roughly 11,000, 7,000, and 6,000 students, respectively. Each offers a different experience, from a large research university to accessible community-college pathways.

How many colleges are there in Maine?

Maine has about 30 colleges and universities, including public universities, community colleges, and private institutions. The exact count can vary depending on whether a list includes separate campuses, specialized schools, or institutions offering mostly online programs. For students, that variety means options across the state, with different sizes, programs, and routes to a degree.

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

Colby College in Waterville offers Maine students a small residential liberal arts setting with a strong focus on undergraduate learning and access to the outdoors. Enrollment is 2,360, and the 89% graduation rate suggests many students complete their degrees. Admission is highly selective, with a 7% acceptance rate. Reported total study cost is $66,660, while median alumni salary is $53,589. Maine students should compare its cost with campus life and seek financial aid when planning a degree close to home.

Bowdoin College, located in Brunswick, gives Maine students a selective liberal arts education in a coastal community near the state's southern coast. Its 1,841 enrolled students and 95% graduation rate point to a compact campus and strong degree completion. Only 7% of applicants are accepted. Total study cost is $67,198, and median alumni salary is $56,615. Students can consider Brunswick's oceanfront setting and access to Maine communities while comparing the high cost with aid, academic interests, and plans after graduation.

Bates College in Lewiston offers Maine students an undergraduate liberal arts experience in a small city, with campus life connected to the wider Androscoggin County community. Enrollment is 1,736, graduation rate 90%, and acceptance rate 13%. Reported total study cost is $66,590; median alumni salary is $49,127. That combination makes Bates a selective, relatively small option for students who want a residential college and close access to Maine's outdoor and cultural offerings. Compare aid and cost with academic priorities carefully.

University of Southern Maine, with campuses in Portland, Gorham, and Lewiston, offers Maine residents a public-university route with a broad range of academic and community connections. It enrolls 7,581 students; its 40% graduation rate and 79% acceptance rate provide context for its more accessible admissions profile. Total study cost is $27,030, and median alumni salary is $50,758. For students seeking to stay in Maine, the campuses help compare options near home, work, or family and assess career fit and cost.

University of New England is a private university with campuses in Biddeford and Portland, giving Maine students options in coastal settings and a range of academic pathways. It enrolls 7,742 students, with a 68% graduation rate and 92% acceptance rate. Total study cost is $42,650, while median alumni salary is $54,638. For someone planning to study in Maine, UNE's coastal locations and broad program choices may be appealing; compare tuition and living expenses with expected career outcomes and personal goals.