Higher Education

Maine has a wide array of higher educational institutions ranging from technical and community colleges to graduate programs. Maine’s higher education system consists of the State University System, the Community College System, and private and public colleges.

State University System
The University of Maine System comprises seven universities and eleven regional outreach centers dedicated to academic excellence in areas such as computer sciences, mathematics, engineering, and international studies.  Nearly 600 majors, minors and concentrations are available through Maine’s university system.  In addition, 75 local interactive television sites deliver distance-education programs.  Advanced degree programs and graduate research opportunities are available at two of Maine’s public universities.  The University of Maine offers master’s programs in over 60 areas of study and doctoral programs in 25 areas.  The University of Southern Maine offers 27 advanced degrees in a wide range of fields.

Community Colleges
The Maine Community College System is a comprehensive two-year public college system, comprised of seven community colleges that train thousands of people each year for work in high-growth areas such as telecommunications, computers, alternative energy and electronics, as well as traditional trades.  They also provide no-cost, customized, pre-employment training for employees in Maine.  The Community College network offers over 300 career and transfer programs as well as continuing education opportunities.  Over 28,000 Maine people are served by the state's community colleges each year - through degree programs, customized training, and credit and non-credit offerings.

Private Colleges
Maine’s private colleges provide diverse and demanding academic environments, rich in programs leading to advanced professional studies and careers in business management.  Three of Maine's private colleges—Bates, Bowdoin, and Colby—are among the top-ranked private colleges in the nation.