Best Colleges in Maine for Associate, Bachelor’s & Master’s

Maine College Guide – What You Need to Know

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The State of Maine is known for its coastal vistas, New England climate, and spacious communities. The colleges and universities in Maine typically reflect the open spaces and scenic beauty found throughout the state. Located among rolling hills, lakes, and rivers, Maine has excellent college choices for residents through the University of Maine system and a wide range of private institutions. Many of Maine’s private schools offer small classes and supportive learning environments. The University system has locations spread throughout the state, and they offer a wide range of major courses of study. Bowdoin and Colby colleges stand out as innovators in college education.

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What are the most popular bachelor's degrees offered in Maine?

Maine is somewhat unusual in that its leading major is neither business nor computer sciences. The leading categories are health and humanities studies. Business majors rank third overall. A large number of agriculture and technical fields in combination also make up a substantial amount of degrees earned in the state. The state of Maine remains a substantial contributor to the national and global food supply. Maine students also find high appeal and high demand in the health professions. Maine has several outstanding nursing schools.

Your online Maine degree might in one of these popular, and potentially lucrative, fields:

How Much Can You Make by Having a Degree in Maine

Responses from public and private surveys alike demonstrate a clear relationship between salary and educational attainment. Over the course of a lifetime of earnings, a bachelor degree holder can earn about one million dollars more than a similar person with no degree. Education also translates into an opportunity to move into different occupations and higher levels within a particular occupation. Education can even inspire success as an entrepreneur.

Education Level & National Average Median Compensation

NO FORMAL EDUCATION HIGH SCHOOL DIPLOMA ASSOCIATE DEGREE BACHELOR’S DEGREE MASTER’S DEGREE DOCTORAL DEGREE
$30,784* $38,792* $46,124* $64,896* $77,844* $96,772*
*National Average Earnings by Degree Level
arizona-National-Average-earning-by-educational-attainment

Most Popular Degrees and Careers in Maine

The manufacturing sector in Maine has changed since the recession in 2006, and the state has turned towards sustainable growth in technology, healthcare, education, and green manufacturing. The shipbuilding, fishing, and agriculture sectors remain vital and strong. These enduring sectors, along with retailing have carried the state towards its new economy. Maine focuses more on trade, exporting, and technological innovation and tech spin-offs. The university system and the existing group of private colleges provide a supply of highly educated employees equipped for the modern business environment.

Top Business Careers and Salaries

Buyers and Purchasing Agents work the markets to obtain supplies and inventory for an organization’s line or lines of business.

Compliance Officers provide research, information, and guidance for regulated companies and nearly every type of organization to make timely compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Human Resources Specialists provide expertise for relations with an organization’s human assets. These roles include payroll and administration, incentives, training, and development. They work to find excellent workers and to retain them. HR specialists work with every part of the organization’s management and planning to ensure adequate personnel resources.

Management Analysts are the professionals that study the organization's operations and functions for efficiency, adequacy, and quality. They perform continuous assessments and drive the organization towards internal preparedness for its overall goals and objectives.

Fundraisers are skilled professionals that create sources of funding and monetary support relationships on behalf of a client or organization.

Top Careers in Business

CAREER NAME CURRENTLY EMPLOYED AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Buyers and Purchasing Agents 1,340 $49,400
Compliance Officers 1,040 $69,700
Human Resources Specialists 1,630 $51,500
Management Analysts 1,140 $67,400
Fundraisers 540 $51,700

Best Maine Schools for Business

  • University of Maine
  • The University of Southern Maine
  • Colby College
  • Maine Maritime Academy

Top Education Careers and Salaries

Substitute Teachers are the necessary talent pool to provide continuity in elementary and high school instruction.

High School Teachers direct students to their eventual career path, teaching specialized subjects that allow students to choose an interest as they move into college.

Teacher Assistants provide in-class assistance and support services for classroom teachers and school administrators. Teacher assistants require less education than a teaching professional.

Postsecondary Education Teachers are at the core of the education system; they produce the faculty and high school teachers for the future. They perform and review research that helps improve outcomes, incorporate technical innovation, and increase access to formal education.

CAREER NAME CURRENTLY EMPLOYED AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Substitute Teachers 2,200 $29,200
High School Teachers 5,400 $50,300
Teacher’s Assistants 8,620 $23,300
Education Teachers, Postsecondary 360 $53,800

Best Maine Schools for Education

  • University of Maine
  • University of Southern Maine
  • Bowdoin College
  • The University of Maine at Farmington
  • The University of Maine at Presque Isle

Top Engineering Careers and Salaries

Computer engineers develop hardware systems that can process information per the purpose of the users. This field combines principles of engineering and computer science.

Electrical engineers work with electrically powered devices, machines, and systems. They are experts in the capacities and innovations of electrical power.

Civil engineers help design and build structures like bridges, tunnels, roads, and highways.

Industrial engineers work in production settings to help design and build efficient processes.

CAREER NAME CURRENTLY EMPLOYED AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Civil Engineers 1,040 $67,100
Electrical Engineers 690 $76,500
Industrial Engineers 830 $68,200
Mechanical Engineers 990 $71,400
Computer Engineer 67,880 $75,100

Best Maine Schools for Engineering

  • University of Maine (UMaine)
  • The Maine Maritime Academy
  • Thomas College
  • The University of Maine at Augusta

Top Health Medicine Careers and Salaries

Pharmacists are trained medical experts in the field of pharmaceuticals and medications. They can dispense medicines, advise patients, and perform vaccinations.

Physicians and Surgeons are medical professionals that practice general medicine and surgical specialties respectively. They comprise the essential core of medical care of diagnosis, treatment, and emergency surgery.

Physician Assistants are highly trained and well-educated medical professionals that have licenses or certifications to diagnose patients, provide treatment, and serve as a principal health services provider.

Pharmacy Technicians support the work of prescribing medical officials and pharmacists. They fill orders, prepare instructions, and answer patient questions within the scope of their assignments.

Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses are the essential caregiving nursing professionals, who primarily work in inpatient settings like hospitals and nursing facilities. They provide practical patient care.

Healthcare Administrators ensure that a healthcare facility runs smoothly and efficiently by making sure they have all the necessary resources and policies in place.

CAREER NAME CURRENTLY EMPLOYED AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Pharmacists 1,290 $115,200
Physicians and Surgeons 2,200 $152,300
Physician Assistants 840 $97,900
Pharmacy Technicians 2,270 $35,800
Licensed Practical and Licensed Vocational Nurses 1,080 $49,400

Best Maine Schools for Health and Medicine

  • University of New England
  • St. Joseph’s College
  • University of Maine
  • Bates College
  • University of Southern Maine
  • The University of Maine at Augusta

Top Social Sciences Careers and Salaries

Survey Researchers provide expertise in gathering information in a wide range of settings. The must vet information for accuracy and reliability.

Clinical, Counseling, and School Psychologists provide counseling and guidance for students, families, and other groups within their assigned areas. The work with emotional issues and behavioral problems.

Urban and Regional Planners provide expertise in land use and population management issues for transportation, housing, and governmental planning. They must also advise on environmental and conservation issues.

Political Scientists study and research systems of governance and issues within democratic and other forms of government.

Social Scientists and Related Workers include social, community, and community health workers and professionals. They work in public administration and private efforts to study, research, and resolve social issues.

Social Science Research Assistants are well-trained personnel that act as assistants in social research and services settings. Both in the public and private sector, social science research assistants perform a wide variety of valuable staff work.

CAREER NAME CURRENTLY EMPLOYED AVERAGE ANNUAL SALARY
Survey Researchers 9,930 $58,600
School Psychologists 310 $62,700
Urban and Regional Planners 110 $56,300
Political Scientists 50 $56,000
Social Scientists 2,630 $63,800
Social Science Research Assistants 2,630 $63,800

Best Maine Schools for Social Science

  • The University of Maine at Presque Isle (UMPI)
  • Colby College
  • Bowdoin College
  • Bates College
  • University of Maine
Want to See All the Maine Occupational Wage Averages

The top occupations with the highest forecasted growth rate in Maine

Occupation Growth Percentage Average Wage Jobs in 2024
Nurse Practitioner 24.6% $99,140 1,470
Physician Assistant 19.0% $104,520 1,130
Physical Therapist 17.3% $75,280 1,560
Software Developer 16.0% $85,440 1,740
Business Analyst 15.4% $81,220 1,870
Occupational Therapist 14.6% $64,620 1,100
Home Health Aide 14.3% $24,690 3,760
Registered Nurse 10.9% $63,800 16,220

Best Associate Degrees in Maine

Best Associate Degrees in Maine
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When students begin their post-secondary education in one of Maine's best associate degree programs, their future is indeed bright. The best colleges in the state offer two-year degrees to students who are eager to start gaining work experience yet who are also considering returning to school for a bachelor's degree later. Keep reading to find the best community colleges and universities that offer two-year associate degrees in an array of subjects.

Washington County Community College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
403		 Graduation Rate
48%		 Net Price
$5,997 		Grads Salary
$27,900
Kennebec Valley Community College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
2,406		 Graduation Rate
39%		 Net Price
$7,008 		Grads Salary
$29,000
Northern Maine Community College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
829		 Graduation Rate
42%		 Net Price
$9,377 		Grads Salary
$30,300
Central Maine Community College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
3,218		 Graduation Rate
25%		 Net Price
$8,283 		Grads Salary
$32,100
Southern Maine Community College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
6,384		 Graduation Rate
22%		 Net Price
$10,458 		Grads Salary
$33,900
Eastern Maine Community College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
2,457		 Graduation Rate
24%		 Net Price
$10,634 		Grads Salary
$32,400
York County Community College
College Type
2-year, Public		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
1,630		 Graduation Rate
32%		 Net Price
$8,730 		Grads Salary
$27,800
Beal University
College Type
4-year, primarily associate's, Private for-profit		 Campus Housing
No		 Student Population
493		 Graduation Rate
63%		 Net Price
$19,722 		Grads Salary
$21,000

Best Bachelor's Degrees in Maine

Best Bachelor's Degrees in Maine
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Maine is home to schools that offer some of the nation's best bachelor's degrees in the most in-demand fields. Students emerge prepared to achieve excellence in math, business, computer science, the natural sciences, and healthcare, among many other rewarding fields. Below is a list of the best colleges in the state that prepare graduates for unlimited success in whatever they choose to pursue.

Bowdoin College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,835		 Graduation Rate
95%		 Net Price
$25,622 		Grads Salary
$81,000
Colby College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
2,003		 Graduation Rate
90%		 Net Price
$18,552 		Grads Salary
$72,600
Bates College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,820		 Graduation Rate
92%		 Net Price
$26,451 		Grads Salary
$73,300
University of Maine
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
11,561		 Graduation Rate
56%		 Net Price
$16,365 		Grads Salary
$70,000
University of Maine at Farmington
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,930		 Graduation Rate
60%		 Net Price
$14,492 		Grads Salary
$61,800
College of the Atlantic
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
360		 Graduation Rate
66%		 Net Price
$18,355 		Grads Salary
$60,300
Husson University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
3,744		 Graduation Rate
58%		 Net Price
$19,342 		Grads Salary
$62,800
University of Southern Maine
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
8,022		 Graduation Rate
36%		 Net Price
$12,072 		Grads Salary
$66,000
Thomas College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,949		 Graduation Rate
50%		 Net Price
$21,934 		Grads Salary
$67,600
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,987		 Graduation Rate
59%		 Net Price
$27,979 		Grads Salary
$69,000
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Best Master's Degrees in Maine

Best Master's Degrees in Maine
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Students in the great state of Maine can find some of the best master’s degrees and graduate programs in the nation. Those that decide to pursue a Ph.D. or other doctoral degree program will find that Maine has everything they are likely to need to move their career to the next level. Below is a list of the best advanced degree programs in Maine. No matter what their vocation, a student can find a degree to advance in their field. Check out University HQ's Best MBA Programs in Maine

University of Maine
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
11,561		 Graduation Rate
56%		 Net Price
$16,365 		Grads Salary
$70,000
University of Maine at Farmington
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,930		 Graduation Rate
60%		 Net Price
$14,492 		Grads Salary
$61,800
College of the Atlantic
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
360		 Graduation Rate
66%		 Net Price
$18,355 		Grads Salary
$60,300
Husson University
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
3,744		 Graduation Rate
58%		 Net Price
$19,342 		Grads Salary
$62,800
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,987		 Graduation Rate
59%		 Net Price
$27,979 		Grads Salary
$69,000
Thomas College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
1,949		 Graduation Rate
50%		 Net Price
$21,934 		Grads Salary
$67,600
University of Southern Maine
College Type
4-year, Public		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
8,022		 Graduation Rate
36%		 Net Price
$12,072 		Grads Salary
$66,000
University of New England
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
7,483		 Graduation Rate
61%		 Net Price
$36,474 		Grads Salary
$69,300
Unity College
College Type
4-year, Private not-for-profit		 Campus Housing
Yes		 Student Population
931		 Graduation Rate
47%		 Net Price
$27,070 		Grads Salary
$43,000

Cost of Maine College Education & Salaries

Maine public schools charge far less for in-state students than out-of-state students. The two-tier arrangement reflects the contributions that citizens of Maine make to higher education through their taxes. Non-residents do not make such a contribution and the schools charge the full value of the education for these non-residents. However, Maine and other states join compacts to permit their residents to pay in-state rates when attending schools in neighboring or nearby states.

Private schools charge a single rate and the highest rates in Maine are at a small private school with very selective admissions standards. Overall, private schools charge substantially more than pubic school out-of-state rates.

College Cost Analysis - Maine vs. National

Average Maine Tuition & Fees at 4 Year Public Schools

In-State Tuition - $9,930

National Average – $9,580

Out-of-State Tuition – $27,735

National Average – $27,437

Percentage of Students Receiving Financial Aid

Nationally about 67% of all students get some type of financial aid in the forms of grants or scholarships. In the state of Maine, 69% get financial aid which is slightly above the national average. The state of Maine also compares well with the national average for the dollars per recipient. Maine is only slightly below the national average. However, Maine is not one of the leading states in its own contributions to student tuition costs. The residents of Maine get a substantial portion of student aid from schools and colleges, private donors, and business groups or associations.

Financial Aid Maine Nationally
Received Federal Grants 39.9% 37.7%
Average $ per Recipient $10,436 $10,927

* Institutional aid represents grant and scholarship funds directly awarded by a post-secondary institution.
* Financial aid data represents 4-year public and private nonprofit schools only.

Best Scholarships for Maine

The costs of education are high and rising for today’s students and their families. The prices increase due to the rising costs of education and the trend towards five-year completion of four-year programs. Two of the better ways to reduce the costs of education are grants and scholarships. State, federal, and private grants aid students immediately and further reduce their need for loans and long-term debt. Students should search thoroughly for scholarships, apply every possible place, and start early.

Ten Best Scholarships for Maine College Students

Maine has state grants and a wide range of private scholarships. Many awards come from businesses and business associations. Some Maine scholarships require particular residency in cities, counties, or other affiliations. Students should search using all their characteristics including gender, major course of study, ethnic heritage, interests, and hobbies.

ABSF_logo

ABSF

Amos Bridge Scholarship Fund

https://www.mainecf.org/find-a-scholarship/available-scholarships/available-statewide/
Amount: Determined by the university on the basis of need
Deadline: May 1
The Amos Bridge Scholarship Fund was established to support students enrolled in the University of Maine’s Construction Engineering Technology program or USM's Certificate in Construction Management, or similar programs relating to management within the construction industry.

ACGMS_logo

ACGMS

AGC of Maine Scholarship

https://agcmaine.org/scholarship/
Amount: $1,000-$3,000 (10-12 Awards)
Deadline: TBA
Eligible applicants must be Maine residents with a preferred major of construction education or a related field. The review process involves an interview before an AGC committee. The preferred applicants will have some experience or knowledge of the construction industry. Each applicant must submit an application with a 300-word essay that presents the student's interest and motivations for entering the construction industry.

RRBASF

Roger R. Berube Annual Scholarship Fund

https://www.famemaine.com/scholarships/roger-r-berube-annual-scholarship-fund/
Amount: $1,000 (Public Housing) $1,000 (Section 8 Participants)
Deadline: June 15
There are two types of eligibility, academic eligibility, and residential eligibility. The Maine resident academic requirements are: graduating high school seniors, students enrolled in college, or older students returning to school. There are no limitations or preferences as to the course of study or major fields. The residential requirements are current residents of the Lewiston Housing Authority either in Public Housing or Section 8 housing choice voucher holders.

The application deadline is June 15 and potential award winners can get the application forms from (1) high school guidance offices servicing Lisbon, Lewiston, Wales, and Greene; (2) the University of Maine System; and (3) Lewiston Housing Authority at One College Street, Lewiston, Maine 04240 or The Lewiston Housing Authority, Hillview Office at 77 Rideout Avenue, Lewiston, Maine 04240.

MBPWC

Maine Business & Prof. Women’s Club – Jean Hammond Memorial Scholarship

https://www.famemaine.com/scholarships/maine-business-prof-womens-club-jean-hammond-memorial-scholarship/
Amount: $1,200
Deadline: April 13
The program primarily seeks to assist women in the first year of college studies. The program pays the funds directly to the institution. First preference will be to applicants with significant community involvement to honor the memory of Jean Hammond. The scholarship is nonspecific to course of study; the second preference category is the choice of a communications (journalism, advertising, etc.) major.

TAJJS

The Agnes Jones Jackson Scholarship

http://www.poisefoundation.org/naacp-scholarships
Award: Up to $2,000 (40 Awards)
Deadline: TBA
The Agnes Jones Jackson Scholarship honors the memory of a long-time member and vital participant in the San Francisco NAACP. Students must be members of the NAACP, be a US citizen, and be 24 or less at the time of the application. The required academic status is enrolled at or accepted to an accredited college or university in the US. The award is based on financial need as well as scholarship and leadership potential. Applicants must demonstrate financial need based on the federal family income guidelines. The academic requirements are full-time attendance with a minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 system.

TNHSS_logo

TNHSS

The NHS Scholarship

https://www.nhs.us/students/the-nhs-scholarship/
Award: Up to $25,000 (600 awards)
Deadline: February 1
The National Association of Secondary School Principals (NASSP) supports NHS scholarships. The scholarships recognize outstanding students from Maine and across the US that attend colleges in Maine or elsewhere. The NASSP and the NHS seek to promote better access to quality education by reducing the financial barriers to college. The group acknowledges the rising costs of education and the increased difficulty that cost places on US families. The program awards about 600 students annually with a national winner at $5,000, 24 finalists at $5,500, and 575 semifinalists who receive $3,200. Students must apply through their local sponsors. All members of the National Honor Society are eligible.

CRSF

Clyde Russell Scholarship Fund

https://www.famemaine.com/scholarships/clyde-russell-scholarship-fund/
Amount: Up to $10,000
Deadline: February 1
The maximum amount for a four-year college student is $10,000. The committee intends to make major awards in all categories within the framework of the $10,000 limit for students at four-year institutions. The award criteria are multifaceted and diverse. The committee may consider the applicant's strengths including academic achievement, community involvement, personal barriers faced, and financial need. Applications may go through their high school guidance counselor beginning October 1 of the year before the student enrolls in college. The number of awards varies from year to year, and runner-up selections get $500.

ASCE_logo

ASCE

American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Maine Section Scholarship

https://www.famemaine.com/scholarships/american-society-of-civil-engineers-asce-maine-section/
Amount: $2,000
Deadline: January 31
Applicants must be Maine residents, graduating high school seniors, and have expressed an intention to study engineering at an accredited institution. The selection criteria are academic performance, extracurricular activities, and a personal statement describing interest and career plans for the field of engineering. Applicants should get application forms and information from a high school guidance counselor or directly from the foundation at:

Leslie L. Corrow, P.E.
American Society of Civil Engineers Maine Section, Scholarship Chair
c/o Kleinschmidt Associates,
141 Main Street,
PO Box 650, Pittsfield, ME 04967

MLMSF_logo

MLMSF

Maine Legislative Memorial Scholarship Fund

https://www.famemaine.com/scholarships/maine-legislative-memorial-scholarship-fund/
Amount: $1,000 (1 Award per County)
Deadline: May 1
The Maine Legislative Memorial Scholarship Fund awards financial aid to Maine resident high school seniors, full-time students, and part-time post-secondary students. All applicants must be pursuing graduate or undergraduate degrees. They must be accepted at or enrolled in an accredited Maine college.

The award is $1,000 and not renewable. The program selects one student from each of the 16 Maine Counties.

THWWSMS

The Hubertus W.V. Willems Scholarship for Male Students

http://www.poisefoundation.org/the-hubertus-wv-willems-scholarship-for-male-students
Amount: Up to $3,000 (Around 40 Awards)
Deadline: TBA
The program awards funds to male students majoring in one or more of the fields of Chemistry, Engineering, Physics, or the Mathematical Sciences. Applicants must be US citizens, and the program deems membership in the NAACP as a desirable but not a required status. The required academic levels are either graduating high school senior or enrolled college student. Applicants must intend to enroll or be attending an accredited university or college. High school and college applicants must be full-time students with a minimum 2.5 average on a 4.0 scale.

The program awards scholarships for graduate and undergraduate study. The maximum amount per award is $3,000 and to overall number depends on the number of applicants accepted but historically has been about forty awards per year. Applicants must demonstrate financial need with reference to the federal minimum income guidelines.

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