The best universities in Maine are known for their strong academic programs, dedicated faculty, and vibrant campus communities. These institutions offer a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees across various fields, supported by advanced facilities and a commitment to research and student success. Maine’s top universities are recognized for their quality education, community engagement, and unique learning environments. From large public universities to smaller liberal arts colleges, these institutions provide exceptional opportunities for students to achieve their academic and professional goals.
University of Maine
The University of Maine (UMaine), located in Orono, is one of the best universities in Maine, known for its comprehensive academic programs and research capabilities. As the state’s flagship public university, UMaine offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degrees through its colleges, including the College of Engineering, the College of Natural Sciences, Forestry, and Agriculture, and the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. UMaine is recognized for its research in areas such as marine sciences, forestry, and engineering, with facilities like the Darling Marine Center and the Advanced Structures and Composites Center. The university’s focus on research and its dynamic campus life make it a leading choice for students seeking a distinguished educational experience.
Bates College
Bates College, located in Lewiston, is one of the best private liberal arts colleges in Maine, known for its strong programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The college offers undergraduate degrees through its various departments, including the Department of History, the Department of Psychology, and the Department of Environmental Studies. Bates is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and experiential learning, with facilities like the Bates College Museum of Art and the Harold Alfond Athletic Center. The college’s emphasis on intellectual curiosity and its supportive campus community provide students with a comprehensive liberal arts education.
Bowdoin College
Bowdoin College, located in Brunswick, is one of the best private liberal arts colleges in Maine, renowned for its strong programs in the liberal arts, sciences, and social sciences. The college offers undergraduate degrees through its various departments, including the Department of Government and Legal Studies, the Department of Biology, and the Department of English. Bowdoin is recognized for its commitment to academic rigor and community engagement, with facilities like the Bowdoin College Museum of Art and the Schiller Coastal Studies Center. The college’s focus on critical thinking and its vibrant campus life make it a leading choice for students seeking a well-rounded educational experience.
Colby College
Colby College, located in Waterville, is one of the best private liberal arts colleges in Maine, known for its strong programs in the humanities, social sciences, and natural sciences. The college offers undergraduate degrees through its various departments, including the Department of Economics, the Department of Environmental Studies, and the Department of History. Colby is recognized for its commitment to academic excellence and research, with facilities like the Colby College Museum of Art and the Harold Alfond Athletic Center. The college’s emphasis on intellectual exploration and its supportive campus community provide students with valuable opportunities for academic and personal growth.
University of New England
The University of New England (UNE), with campuses in Biddeford and Portland, is one of the best private universities in Maine, known for its strong programs in health sciences, marine sciences, and business. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees through its various colleges, including the College of Osteopathic Medicine, the College of Pharmacy, and the College of Business. UNE is recognized for its research in areas such as marine biology, osteopathic medicine, and health care management, with facilities like the UNE Marine Sciences Center and the UNE College of Osteopathic Medicine. The university’s emphasis on hands-on learning and its vibrant campus life make it a leading choice for students seeking a comprehensive education.
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine, located in Standish, is one of the best private liberal arts colleges in Maine, known for its strong programs in business, education, and health sciences. The college offers undergraduate and graduate degrees through its various schools, including the School of Business, the School of Education, and the School of Nursing. Saint Joseph’s is recognized for its commitment to personalized education and community service, with facilities like the Saint Joseph’s College Center for Nursing and Health Sciences and the Saint Joseph’s College Center for Community Engagement. The college’s focus on student success and its supportive campus environment provide valuable opportunities for academic and personal development.
University of New England – Portland Campus
The University of New England’s Portland campus is one of the best locations in Maine for students pursuing advanced degrees in health sciences, including osteopathic medicine and pharmacy. The campus offers specialized programs through the College of Osteopathic Medicine and the College of Pharmacy, providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and clinical training opportunities. UNE’s Portland campus is recognized for its emphasis on integrating hands-on experience with classroom learning, with facilities such as the UNE Center for Health Innovation and the UNE College of Pharmacy’s simulation labs. The campus’s focus on professional development and its dynamic learning environment make it a top choice for students in health-related fields.
Maine Maritime Academy
Maine Maritime Academy, located in Castine, is one of the best specialized universities in Maine, known for its strong programs in marine engineering, maritime transportation, and international business. The academy offers undergraduate and graduate degrees through its various departments, including the Department of Marine Engineering, the Department of Marine Transportation, and the Department of International Business and Logistics. Maine Maritime Academy is recognized for its hands-on training and research in maritime and engineering fields, with facilities like the Marine Engineering Simulator and the International Business and Logistics Center. The academy’s focus on practical experience and its supportive campus community provide valuable opportunities for students seeking careers in maritime and engineering industries.
Husson University
Husson University, located in Bangor, is one of the best private universities in Maine, known for its strong programs in business, health sciences, and criminal justice. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees through its various colleges, including the College of Business, the College of Health and Pharmacy, and the School of Criminal Justice. Husson is recognized for its commitment to career-focused education and experiential learning, with facilities like the Husson University School of Pharmacy and the Center for Criminal Justice Studies. The university’s emphasis on professional development and its vibrant campus life provide students with valuable opportunities for academic and career growth.
The University of Southern Maine
The University of Southern Maine (USM), with campuses in Portland, Gorham, and Lewiston, is one of the best public universities in Maine, known for its strong programs in business, education, and the arts. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate degrees through its colleges, including the College of Management and Human Service, the College of Education and Human Development, and the College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences. USM is recognized for its research in areas such as community engagement, urban studies, and creative arts, with facilities like the USM Maine Center for Business and Economic Research and the USM Art Gallery. The university’s focus on practical experience and its dynamic campus environment make it a leading choice for students seeking a comprehensive educational experience.