Best Public Colleges in Maine 2024

Badge for BEST IN MAINE PUBLIC COLLEGES
By Dr. 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

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  1. University of Maine
  2. University of Southern Maine
  3. University of Maine at Augusta
  4. Maine Maritime Academy
  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
  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 99%
  2. University of Maine at Presque Isle 97%
  3. University of Maine 94%
  4. University of Maine at Farmington 94%
  5. University of Southern Maine 85%
  6. Maine Maritime Academy 58%
  1. University of Maine at Presque Isle 23 to 1
  2. University of Maine at Fort Kent 17 to 1
  3. University of Maine at Augusta 15 to 1
  4. University of Maine 14 to 1
  5. University of Southern Maine 14 to 1
  6. University of Maine at Farmington 11 to 1
  7. Maine Maritime Academy 11 to 1
  1. University of Maine $11,640
  2. Maine Maritime Academy $11,474
  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. Maine Maritime Academy $14,400
  2. University of Maine at Presque Isle $12,000
  3. University of Maine at Farmington $10,248
  4. University of Maine $9,738
  5. University of Maine at Augusta $7,776
  6. University of Southern Maine $7,776
  7. University of Maine at Fort Kent $7,350
  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. Maine Maritime Academy
  6. University of Maine at Augusta
  7. University of Southern Maine
  8. University of Maine
  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 85%
  3. University of Maine at Farmington 94%
  4. University of Maine 94%
  5. University of Maine at Presque Isle 97%
  6. University of Maine at Fort Kent 99%
  1. University of Maine at Farmington 11 to 1
  2. Maine Maritime Academy 11 to 1
  3. University of Maine 14 to 1
  4. University of Southern Maine 14 to 1
  5. University of Maine at Augusta 15 to 1
  6. University of Maine at Fort Kent 17 to 1
  7. University of Maine at Presque Isle 23 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 $11,474
  7. University of Maine $11,640
  1. University of Maine at Fort Kent $7,350
  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
  7. Maine Maritime Academy $14,400

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
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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.

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Best Public Colleges in Maine 2023

  1. #1

    University of Maine

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

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    94%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    15K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1200/26

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine

    Cost of Degree: $12,136
    Expenses: $15,320
    Starting Salary: $48,300
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 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

    85%

    Graduation

    42%

    Student body

    10K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1109/22

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Southern Maine

    Cost of Degree: $10,100
    Expenses: $14,784
    Starting Salary: $44,400
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 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

    23%

    Student body

    6K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine at Augusta

    Cost of Degree: $8,378
    Expenses: $13,000
    Starting Salary: $30,600
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 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

    $15K

    Acceptance

    58%

    Graduation

    66%

    Student body

    1K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1175/25

    Career Outlook for degree at Maine Maritime Academy

    Cost of Degree: $14,562
    Expenses: $15,740
    Starting Salary: $107,200
    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

    94%

    Graduation

    53%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine at Farmington

    Cost of Degree: $9,890
    Expenses: $14,834
    Starting Salary: $37,500
    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

    $9K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    29%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine at Presque Isle

    Cost of Degree: $8,750
    Expenses: $13,300
    Starting Salary: $35,300
    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

    99%

    Graduation

    37%

    Student body

    2K

    Career Outlook for degree at University of Maine at Fort Kent

    Cost of Degree: $8,542
    Expenses: $13,054
    Starting Salary: $37,700
    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

    #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 faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    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
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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.

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