
P.O. Box 9300, Portland, ME 04104, USA


The University of Southern Maine has its origins dating back to the 19th century, with its establishment rooted in the merging of two educational institutions. In 1878, the Gorham Normal School was founded to train teachers, marking the beginning of what would evolve into the modern university. Later, in 1946, the University of Maine at Portland-Gorham was formed, reflecting a broader expansion of academic programs beyond teacher education. The university as it is known today came into being in 1970, following the merger of the University of Maine at Portland and the University of Maine at Gorham. This consolidation aimed to provide a more comprehensive range of undergraduate and graduate programs to meet the educational needs of the region. Over the decades, the University of Southern Maine has continued to grow, adapting its offerings to serve a diverse student body and emphasizing a commitment to accessible higher education.
University of Southern Maine offers a diverse range of academic divisions designed to meet the interests and career goals of prospective students. The university's academic structure includes multiple faculties and departments that cover disciplines in the arts, sciences, professional studies, and interdisciplinary fields.
The College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences provides programs in areas such as English, history, psychology, and sociology, fostering a broad liberal arts education. Students interested in scientific inquiry and technical fields can engage with the departments within the School of Engineering, Computer Science, and Mathematics, which offer curricula focused on both theoretical foundations and practical applications.
The Muskie School of Public Service concentrates on public policy, social work, and organizational leadership, preparing students for roles in government and nonprofit sectors. Business-oriented students can pursue degrees through the Muskie School's offerings in management, accounting, and finance, all designed to align with contemporary economic environments.
For those inclined towards health and wellness, the College of Health Professions offers programs that cover nursing, physical therapy, and other health sciences, equipping students to enter healthcare delivery and research fields effectively.
Additionally, the university maintains specialized departments such as those dedicated to environmental science and education, supporting students eager to address ecological challenges or pursue teaching careers. This broad spectrum of academic units reflects the university's commitment to comprehensive educational opportunities tailored to diverse academic interests and professional objectives.
The University of Southern Maine is located in Portland, Maine, a city situated in the northeastern region of the United States. Portland is known for its accessible transportation options, including the nearby Portland International Airport. The university's campus resides within this urban environment, offering students a blend of city life and educational opportunities. For prospective students, Portland provides a setting that combines cultural amenities with regional connectivity, making it a practical choice for higher education.
The University of Southern Maine is dedicated to providing a comprehensive and transformative educational experience that prepares students for meaningful careers and engaged citizenship. Its mission emphasizes fostering academic excellence, innovation, and inclusivity while supporting lifelong learning and community engagement. The university aims to create an environment where students not only gain knowledge and skills but also develop critical thinking, creativity, and ethical responsibility.
The vision of the University of Southern Maine is to be recognized as a forward-thinking institution that serves diverse populations through high-quality teaching, research, and public service. It seeks to cultivate a dynamic learning community that embraces diversity and promotes social and economic progress. This focus on accessibility and social impact positions the university as a vital contributor to regional and global challenges, preparing students to lead with integrity and purpose.
Name of the institution
University of Southern MaineLevel of institution
Four or more yearsControl of institution
PublicSetting type
City: SmallInstitutional Category
Degree - granting, primarily baccalaureate or aboveInstitution size category
5,000 - 9,999School type
UniversityMain student body
CoeducationalCalendar system
SemestersFoundation year
1878
Certificate of less than 1 year
Bachelor's degree
Postbaccalaureate certificate
Master's degree
Post-master's certificate
Doctor's degree - research/scholarship
Doctor's degree - professional practice
Certificate of at least 1 year, but less than 2 years
Associate's degree
Certificate of at least 2 years, but less than 4 years
Doctor's degree - other
Other degreeDegrees
Accounting and Related Services
$45,681Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions
$31,133Biology, General
$31,845Business Administration, Management and Operations
$43,342Communication and Media Studies
$31,339Computer Science
$62,237Criminology
$38,634Electrical, Electronics and Communications Engineering
$70,048English Language and Literature, General
$26,091Finance and Financial Management Services
$46,378Fine and Studio Arts
$24,848Health and Physical Education/Fitness
$29,990History
$30,296Hospitality Administration/Management
$31,231Industrial Production Technologies/Technicians
$58,123Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities
$32,889Marketing
$42,098Mechanical Engineering
$59,660Natural Resources Conservation and Research
$33,948Political Science and Government
$36,075Psychology, General
$34,300Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing
$58,254Social Sciences, Other
$31,702Social Work
$31,945Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas
$29,726