Best Public Colleges in Maine 2024

BEST IN MAINE PUBLIC COLLEGES
By James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Public colleges and universities account for almost 75 percent of all undergraduate students in the U.S. The best public colleges in Maine provide broad access to reputable degree programs, affordable tuition, and sprawling educational communities.

Best Public Colleges in Maine

Sort by:
  1. University of Maine
  2. University of Southern Maine
  3. Maine Maritime Academy
  4. University of Maine at Augusta
  5. University of Maine at Farmington
  6. University of Maine at Presque Isle
  7. University of Maine at Fort Kent
  8. University of Maine at Machias
  1. University of Maine at Fort Kent 100%
  2. University of Maine at Presque Isle 100%
  3. University of Maine at Farmington 97%
  4. University of Maine 96%
  5. University of Southern Maine 87%
  6. Maine Maritime Academy 58%
  1. University of Maine at Presque Isle 18 to 1
  2. University of Maine 16 to 1
  3. University of Maine at Fort Kent 16 to 1
  4. University of Maine at Augusta 16 to 1
  5. University of Maine at Machias 13 to 1
  6. University of Southern Maine 12 to 1
  7. University of Maine at Farmington 11 to 1
  8. Maine Maritime Academy 9 to 1
  1. University of Maine $11,640
  2. Maine Maritime Academy $11,250
  3. University of Maine at Farmington $8,640
  4. University of Southern Maine $8,064
  5. University of Maine at Fort Kent $7,350
  6. University of Maine at Presque Isle $7,350
  7. University of Maine at Augusta $7,350
  1. University of Maine at Presque Isle $12,000
  2. University of Maine at Farmington $10,248
  3. University of Maine $9,738
  4. University of Maine at Augusta $7,776
  5. University of Southern Maine $7,776
  6. Maine Maritime Academy $7,200
  1. University of Maine at Machias
  2. University of Maine at Fort Kent
  3. University of Maine at Presque Isle
  4. University of Maine at Farmington
  5. University of Maine at Augusta
  6. Maine Maritime Academy
  7. University of Southern Maine
  8. University of Maine
  1. Maine Maritime Academy 58%
  2. University of Southern Maine 87%
  3. University of Maine 96%
  4. University of Maine at Farmington 97%
  5. University of Maine at Fort Kent 100%
  6. University of Maine at Presque Isle 100%
  1. Maine Maritime Academy 9 to 1
  2. University of Maine at Farmington 11 to 1
  3. University of Southern Maine 12 to 1
  4. University of Maine at Machias 13 to 1
  5. University of Maine 16 to 1
  6. University of Maine at Fort Kent 16 to 1
  7. University of Maine at Augusta 16 to 1
  8. University of Maine at Presque Isle 18 to 1
  1. University of Maine at Fort Kent $7,350
  2. University of Maine at Presque Isle $7,350
  3. University of Maine at Augusta $7,350
  4. University of Southern Maine $8,064
  5. University of Maine at Farmington $8,640
  6. Maine Maritime Academy $11,250
  7. University of Maine $11,640
  1. Maine Maritime Academy $7,200
  2. University of Maine at Augusta $7,776
  3. University of Southern Maine $7,776
  4. University of Maine $9,738
  5. University of Maine at Farmington $10,248
  6. University of Maine at Presque Isle $12,000

Colleges and Universities in Maine

At $9,970, Maine is right on target with the national average, making the state an affordable choice for those looking to receive an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. The 16 public colleges and universities range in tuition from $4,000 to $14,000. The 10 private schools tend to cost more, ranging from $27,000 to $55,000, though the class sizes are often much smaller. The largest private university is the University of New England, with just under 6,000 students, and a tuition of $38,000.

Find college admissions consultants in your state.

The University of Maine (UMaine), with just under 10,000 students, is the largest public school, with a tuition rate of $11,000. Based in Orono, the public research university offers degrees in fields like literature, earth sciences, and physics. Stephen King and Bernard Lown are among the influential alumni who attended this school. The cost for higher education in Maine varies, but the state offers loan forgiveness programs for many professions, including dentists, lawyers, educators, health professionals, and veterinarians. The Alfond Leaders program forgives up to $60,000 for residents working in eligible science, technology, engineering, and mathematics occupations.

The northernmost state in New England, Maine is known for its fishing, quaint coastal towns, and of course, lobster. Maine is also home to over 60 lighthouses. Students looking to earn their degree while living in a state that has both ocean beaches and lush forests can choose from 26 private and public higher education institutions.

Come see why Maine is an excellent option for earning your higher education degree and starting a career.


What are Maine’s Colleges & Universities?

Maine’s Best Overall

What is the difference between public and private colleges?

Public and private colleges and universities operate under different business models. Public colleges and universities are owned by the state and receive both state and federal funding to operate. Private colleges and universities are private companies with private funding. If you’re looking at the pros and cons of private vs. public colleges, consider that many public colleges provide diverse course offerings, influential professors, and an excellent return on your investment.

Public colleges are schools that receive most of their funding from tax revenues. As a result, the cost of a bachelor’s degree at a public university is often lower than the equivalent cost at a private college — especially for students attending a public school in their home state. Attending a college in-state is usually the cheapest option. Private universities and colleges can be very competitive with their funding opportunities, so do not simply believe that private colleges are always going to be more expensive. According to National Center for Educational Statistics, the average annual cost (tuition, fees, room and board for full-time students) at a public university was slightly over $20,000. In contrast, private universities cost, on average, nearly $43,000 annually. But in the end, the cost of college comes down to each student’s academic and financial situation.

Maine's Best Public Colleges Badge
Download Badge

This list is composed entirely of public colleges and universities that offer bachelor’s degrees. We’ve identified 8 public universities in Maine. To be included in our list of the best public colleges in Maine, shcools must receive direct funding from the state, be fully accredited, and offer a broad range of bachelor’s degress.

Back to Top

Best Public Colleges in Maine 2023

  1. #1

    University of Maine

    Orono , ME
    #1 Best Research Universities in Maine 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Maine 2024 #2 Best Colleges in Maine 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    96%

    Graduation

    57%

    Student body

    10K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine

    Cost of Degree: $11,986
    Expenses: $14,982
    Starting Salary: $44,153
    Salary after 4 years: $54,336
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Maine known for?

    University of Maine’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Maine’s Online Degrees

    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Economics
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Political Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BUS in University Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  2. #2

    University of Southern Maine

    Portland , ME
    #2 Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2024 #2 Best Grad Schools in Maine 2024 #4 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maine 2024 #5 The Most Influential Universities and Colleges Ranked by State 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    34%

    Student body

    6K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1059/22

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Southern Maine

    Cost of Degree: $9,904
    Expenses: $13,938
    Starting Salary: $46,404
    Salary after 4 years: $55,609
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Southern Maine known for?

    University of Southern Maine’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    University of Southern Maine’s Online Degrees

    BS in Applied Technical Leadership
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Management
    • Required Credits: 121
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Social And Behavioral Sciences
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Communication
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Leadership And Organizational Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Integrative Professional Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Maine at Augusta

    Augusta , ME
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2024 #6 Best Small Colleges in Maine 2024 #7 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maine 2024 #9 Best Colleges in Maine 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Graduation

    16%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine at Augusta

    Cost of Degree: $8,378
    Expenses: $13,000
    Starting Salary: $38,329
    Salary after 4 years: $47,024
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Maine at Augusta known for?

    University of Maine at Augusta’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Compare school
  4. #4

    Maine Maritime Academy

    Castine , ME
    #5 Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2024 #8 Best Small Colleges in Maine 2024 #9 Best Liberal Arts Colleges in Maine 2024 #12 Fastest Online Master's Degrees Ranked for Students in 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    58%

    Graduation

    72%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1080/22

    Career Outlook for degree at Maine Maritime Academy

    Cost of Degree: $14,338
    Expenses: $14,910
    Starting Salary: $82,846
    Salary after 4 years: $95,674
    Cost Recoup Time: 7 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Maine Maritime Academy known for?

    Maine Maritime Academy’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  5. #5

    University of Maine at Farmington

    Farmington , ME
    #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2024 #10 Best Small Colleges in Maine 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine at Farmington

    Cost of Degree: $9,590
    Expenses: $14,282
    Starting Salary: $34,009
    Salary after 4 years: $39,060
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Maine at Farmington known for?

    University of Maine at Farmington’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Compare school
  7. #6

    University of Maine at Presque Isle

    Presque Isle , ME
    #7 Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2024 #5 Best Online Colleges in Maine 2024 #23 Best Online Bachelor's of English Degree Programs for 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $8K

    Acceptance

    100%

    Graduation

    35%

    Student body

    1K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine at Presque Isle

    Cost of Degree: $8,495
    Expenses: $12,410
    Starting Salary: $35,281
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Maine at Presque Isle known for?

    University of Maine at Presque Isle’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    University of Maine at Presque Isle’s Online Degrees

    BA in Accounting
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Business Administration
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Project Management
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BLS in Liberal Studies
    Degree Concentrations
    • Accounting
    • Management
    • Project Management
    • Educational Studies
    • Management Information Systems
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in Criminal Justice
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BA in English
    Degree Concentrations
    • Professional Communication And Journalism
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  8. #7

    University of Maine at Fort Kent

    Fort Kent , ME
    #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2024 #1 Best Online Bachelor's of Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Maine #1 Best Online Associate Degrees in Maine 2024 #6 Best Online Colleges in Maine 2024

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    100%

    Graduation

    40%

    Student body

    <1K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine at Fort Kent

    Cost of Degree: $8,505
    Expenses: $12,620
    Starting Salary: $65,585
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Maine at Fort Kent known for?

    University of Maine at Fort Kent’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    University of Maine at Fort Kent’s Online Degrees

    BS in Cybersecurity
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BSN in Nursing Rn To Bsn
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Allied Health
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
  9. #8

    University of Maine at Machias

    Machias , ME
    #9 Most Affordable Colleges in Maine 2024 #8 Best Online Colleges in Maine 2024
    What is University of Maine at Machias known for?

    University of Maine at Machias’s Online Degrees

    BA in Psychology And Community Studies
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    BS in Environmental Geographic Information Science
    • Required Credits: 120
    • Completion Time: None Reported
    • Format: Online
    Compare school
Back to Top

Maine’s Best Public College in Your Area of Interest

Anthropology Biology Business Chemistry Commun­ications Computer Science Criminal Justice Earth Sciences Economics Education Engineering History Law Literature Mathematics Medical Nursing Philosophy Physics Political Science Psychology Religious Studies Social Work Sociology
2021 Ranking Archive

Many of our 2022 undergraduate focused rankings look considerably different than 2021. That’s because we took a fundamentally different apporach. For 2021 we utilized our Concentrated Influence algorithm, designed to take away the size advantage larger schools have when we rank their faculty and alumni’s academic influence. Concentrated influence highlights smaller schools that are proportionally as successful as larger universities at cultivating influential alumni and faculty.

  1. University of Maine
  2. University of Maine at Farmington
  3. Maine Maritime Academy

Check out our directory of public colleges throughout the U.S. for a look at the top public colleges in every state.

Do you have a question about this topic? Ask it here
This website uses cookies to enhance the user experience. Read the Privacy Policy for more.