Most
Popular Colleges in Maine in 2027

Business Administration

Studying business administration in Maine combines foundational business knowledge with practical preparation for industries such as healthcare, tourism, finance, and manufacturing. Typical coursework includes accounting, economics, marketing, management, business law, finance, human resources, and data analytics. Graduates commonly pursue roles as management trainees, marketing coordinators, human resources specialists, financial analysts, and operations supervisors. Popular Maine options include the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Husson University, Thomas College, and the University of New England.

Psychology

Psychology students in Maine study human behavior through courses in developmental, social, cognitive, and abnormal psychology, research methods, statistics, and counseling. Popular colleges include the University of Maine, the University of Southern Maine, Bates College, Bowdoin College, and Colby College. Programs may include research or field experience. Graduates can work as case managers, behavioral health technicians, research assistants, human resources specialists, or support workers in varied settings; clinical practice typically requires further education and licensure.

Computer Science

Studying computer science in Maine combines programming fundamentals with practical problem-solving. Programs commonly cover algorithms, data structures, software engineering, databases, cybersecurity, operating systems, and artificial intelligence. Students build projects while developing analytical and teamwork skills. Popular places to study include the University of Maine, the University of Southern Maine, Bowdoin College, Bates College, and Colby College. Graduates often pursue careers as software developers, data analysts, cybersecurity specialists, systems administrators, or web developers across many industries.

Counseling

Studying counseling in Maine prepares students to support people through compassionate, evidence-based care. Programs commonly cover counseling theories, human development, ethics, multicultural practice, assessment, group counseling, and crisis intervention, alongside supervised fieldwork. Popular in-state options include the University of Southern Maine, Husson University, and the University of Maine. Graduates may pursue work as licensed professional counselors, school counselors, substance use counselors, behavioral health clinicians, or case managers in schools, clinics, hospitals, community agencies, and private practices.

Nursing

Studying a nursing program in Maine combines classroom learning with clinical practice in hospitals and community settings. Courses commonly include anatomy and physiology, microbiology, pharmacology, nursing fundamentals, maternal and child health, mental health, and community nursing. Popular options include the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, Husson University, Saint Joseph's College of Maine, and the University of New England. Graduates may qualify for registered nurse roles in hospitals, clinics, long-term care, or public health.

Best Colleges in Maine Ranking Summary & Conclusions

• The median total cost of studying is 33,254.0, compared with 66,625.0 at schools in the top 10% - nearly twice as much.
• Financial aid is reported for an average of 100.0% of students overall, compared with 70.12% at schools in the top 10%.
• The average acceptance rate is 70.12%. Schools receive an average of 4,924.31 applicants, while those in the top 10% average 13,654.5 applicants. The median number of applicants is 865.5 men and 1,116.0 women.
• Average test scores are 1,218.25 on the SAT and 27.0 on the ACT.
• Average enrollment is 2,306.75 students; the reported averages are 207.87 enrolled men and 224.56 enrolled women.
• The average graduation rate is 62.75%, compared with 89.5% at schools in the top 10%. The median graduation rate is 53.0% for men and 65.5% for women.
• Eight institutions offer associate's degrees, 16 offer bachelor's degrees, 12 offer master's degrees, and 3 offer doctor's degrees.
• There are 16 coeducational schools.
• When choosing a college, compare the cost and financial aid figures, and consider how acceptance rates, applicant numbers, test scores, enrollment, and graduation rates align with your priorities. The reported differences between schools overall and those in the top 10% may also help guide your comparisons.

How much does studying at a college in Maine cost?

The average total cost of studying in Maine is $36,728.88, a useful starting point as you plan for a degree. The reported averages also include $33,630.94 for tuition and fees, $14,808.50 for room and board, and $975.38 for books and supplies. These figures are averages, not a guaranteed bill; your actual cost depends on the school, program, housing choice, and financial aid.

At the University of Maine in Orono, Bowdoin College in Brunswick, or Bates College in Lewiston, compare each school's published cost of attendance instead of assuming these averages match your bill. Public and private colleges can differ, while housing, meal plans, commuting, and course materials shape what you pay. A campus visit or financial-aid conversation can make the numbers feel less daunting and help you picture a path close to home. Ask about grants, scholarships, and transfer pathways to find savings without losing sight of your degree goals.

How long does it take to finish college in Maine?

Most students in Maine should plan on about two years for an associate degree or four years for a bachelor's degree, though part-time study, changing majors, and course availability can extend that timeline. At the University of Maine in Orono, or at Bowdoin College in Brunswick, a traditional bachelor's path is generally organized around four academic years.

Maine's average graduation rate is 62.75%, compared with 89.5% at top-decile schools; averages are 58.33% for men and 66.69% for women. These figures show many students successfully complete degrees, though rates vary by college.

You may be able to move faster by bringing in college credits or taking extra courses, while keeping a manageable schedule:

• Ask whether AP, dual-enrollment, or transfer credits can count toward your degree.
• Consider summer classes or a carefully planned heavier course load to complete requirements sooner.
• Explore online or accelerated courses, checking that credits apply to your Maine program.

Salary

College graduates in Maine earn a median alumni salary of $50,127. At schools in the top 10% for alumni salaries, the median is about $68,291.

• Median alumni salary: $50,127
• Median at top-10% schools: approximately $68,291

These figures offer a useful benchmark whether you're considering the University of Maine in Orono, the University of Southern Maine, or a private college such as Bowdoin or Bates. Your own earnings will depend on your field, experience, and where you work; opportunities and pay can also differ between Maine's larger job markets, such as Portland, and smaller communities.

People also ask

What is the most attended college in Maine?

The University of Maine in Orono is generally the state's largest college by enrollment, with roughly 11,000 students. Its size means a wide range of majors, activities, and campus resources, while still offering the close-knit feel of a college town. Enrollment can vary by year and by how institutions count students.

What is the most popular school in Maine?

"Most popular" has no single official measure, but the University of Maine is a strong answer if you mean a widely chosen school with broad appeal. As Maine's public flagship, it offers many fields of study and draws students from across the state, including those seeking a traditional residential-campus experience.

What is the most famous university in Maine?

The University of Maine is probably the state's best-known university nationally. Its flagship status, research programs, and Black Bears athletics give it a visible profile beyond Maine. For an in-state student, that recognition comes alongside a practical benefit: the university offers a broad range of academic and campus options in one place.

What is the hardest university to get into in Maine?

If you mean the hardest college or university of any kind, Bowdoin College is typically among Maine's most selective, with an acceptance rate around 7% in recent admissions cycles. One important distinction: Bowdoin is a liberal arts college, not a university. Among institutions formally called universities, selectivity varies by program and year.

Top 5 Colleges in the Most Popular Colleges Ranking in Maine Ranking in 2026-2027

Located in Waterville, Colby College is a private liberal arts college offering a close-knit setting in central Maine. Its 2,360 enrolled students can pursue broad undergraduate study while experiencing the state's four seasons and outdoor recreation. Colby reports an 89% graduation rate and a 7% acceptance rate, making admission highly selective. The listed total study cost is $66,660, while median alumni salary is $53,589. For Maine students, compare financial aid and living costs before deciding whether Colby fits their goals.

Bowdoin College, a private liberal arts institution in Brunswick, gives students access to Maine's Midcoast, including coastal scenery and nearby Portland. It enrolls 1,841 students and posts a 95% graduation rate, the highest among these five schools; its 7% acceptance rate reflects very selective admission. The listed total cost is $67,198, and median alumni salary is $56,615. Prospective Maine students should weigh this high price against aid, academic fit, and the benefits of studying in a small residential college community.

Bates College is a private liberal arts college in Lewiston, placing students in Maine's second-largest city and within reach of outdoor activities and regional employers. The college enrolls 1,736 students, with a 90% graduation rate and a 13% acceptance rate. Its listed total study cost is $66,590, and median alumni salary is $49,127. For Maine residents, Bates offers an intimate campus experience close to Portland, but applicants should compare financial aid packages and likely living expenses with the published cost.

The University of Southern Maine is a public university with campuses serving the Portland, Gorham, and Lewiston area, offering a broad, accessible option for students who want to remain in-state. It enrolls 7,581 students, has a 40% graduation rate, and accepts 79% of applicants. The listed total cost is $27,030, substantially below the private colleges here; median alumni salary is $50,758. Maine students can consider its varied programs, urban connections, and comparatively lower cost while checking program-specific outcomes and aid.

Husson University, a private university in Bangor, provides a Maine setting with access to the region's healthcare, business, and community organizations. Its 3,438 enrolled students study at a larger scale than the liberal arts colleges listed here. Husson reports a 59% graduation rate and an 81% acceptance rate. The total study cost is $22,072, the lowest in this group, and median alumni salary is $47,635. For Maine students, Bangor location and program availability may make it a practical in-state choice.