Rankings / By State

Best Bachelor's Programs in Maine

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 17 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$54,234

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

59%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$20,349

Avg. Net Price

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Choosing the right bachelor's program can feel overwhelming, especially in a state like Maine, where 17 institutions offer unique opportunities. Each of these schools shares a commitment to academic excellence and preparing students for the workforce, but they differ significantly in outcomes. With an average earning potential of $54,234 for graduates, it's clear that outcomes matter when weighing options.

What sets the top schools apart is their graduation rates, potential earnings, and manageable debt. For instance, Bowdoin College and Colby College not only boast impressive graduation rates of 95% and 89%, respectively, but they also provide strong earning potential, with graduates earning around $82,735 and $80,490. The financial burden of student debt also plays a crucial role, as seen in the differences across the institutions.

Take Bowdoin and the University of Maine at Fort Kent as examples. While Bowdoin graduates enjoy an average earning of $82,735, those from the University of Maine at Fort Kent earn just $51,077. Additionally, Bowdoin's net price is $14,398, whereas Fort Kent's is significantly lower at $7,482. These numbers highlight the trade-offs families must consider when selecting a program that best fits their needs.

Key Findings

Bowdoin College graduates earn an average of $82,735, the highest in Maine.

Colby College has a graduation rate of 89%, indicating strong student retention.

The average net price for Maine colleges is $16,064, affecting affordability.

University of Maine at Fort Kent has the lowest average earnings at $51,077.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 17

Avg. earnings at 10yr $54,234

Avg. graduation rate 59%

Avg. net price $20,349

Avg. median debt $22,761

How We Ranked

Bachelor's programs in Maine ranked by outcomes and mobility

Read our full methodology →

Earnings vs. Cost

Each dot is a ranked school. Up = higher earnings. Right = higher cost. Top-left is the best value.

Graduation Rates

Longer bars = higher graduation rate.

Top 3

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME

Graduation95%

Earnings$82,735

Net Price$14,398

View full profile →

Colby College

Waterville, ME

Graduation89%

Earnings$80,490

Net Price$17,180

View full profile →

Bates College

Lewiston, ME

Graduation90%

Earnings$69,498

Net Price$29,351

View full profile →

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Full Rankings

Bowdoin College

Brunswick, ME · 1,873 students · Private nonprofit

With a graduation rate of 95%, Bowdoin College in Brunswick, ME, has a strong track record of supporting its students to complete their degrees. The median earnings at ten years post-graduation stand impressively at $82,735, suggesting that Bowdoin graduates are well-prepared for the job market and likely to find fulfilling careers.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College in Waterville, ME, is home to approximately 2,407 students and prides itself on a vibrant campus culture. The college has a graduation rate of 89%, and its graduates earn a median income of $80,490 a decade after leaving, indicating the institution effectively prepares students for successful careers across various fields.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Bates College in Lewiston, ME, emphasizes a liberal arts education in a close community, with a graduation rate of 90%. The median earnings for graduates at ten years are $69,498, showing that Bates alumni are finding their paths in the workforce and making meaningful contributions in their fields of choice.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Maine Maritime Academy

Castine, ME · 942 students · Public

Maine Maritime Academy in Castine is a unique institution focused on preparing students for careers in marine and related industries. With a graduation rate of 60%, it offers specialized programs that lead to median earnings of $89,964 at ten years post-graduation, significantly higher than many other colleges, reflecting the strong demand for graduates in this field.

54% accepted 60% graduate $89,964 earnings

Husson University

Bangor, ME · 2,618 students · Private nonprofit

Husson University, located in Bangor, Maine, caters to a diverse range of students, from traditional learners to working professionals. With a graduation rate of 58%, it provides a solid foundation for those seeking careers in business, healthcare, and more, supported by a median earning of $45,025 after ten years.

81% accepted 58% graduate $45,025 earnings

Husson's full profile

Thomas College

Waterville, ME · 647 students · Private nonprofit

Thomas College in Waterville, Maine, offers a practical approach to education, focusing on career-oriented programs. With a student body of 647, it cultivates a personalized learning experience that prepares graduates for meaningful careers, reflected in a median earning of $44,991 ten years post-graduation.

96% accepted 53% graduate $44,991 earnings

Thomas's full profile

University of Southern Maine

Portland, ME · 4,222 students · Public

Located in Portland, the University of Southern Maine has a diverse student body of 4,222 and an acceptance rate of 79%. This public university appeals to those who appreciate a vibrant urban environment, offering a range of programs that prepare students for various career paths in a bustling city atmosphere.

79% accepted 43% graduate $49,958 earnings

University's full profile

University of Maine at Fort Kent

Fort Kent, ME · 599 students · Public

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 98%, the University of Maine at Fort Kent is an accessible choice for students seeking a tight-knit community. Although it has a smaller enrollment of 599, this public university emphasizes personalized attention, which can be a significant advantage for students looking for support in their academic journey.

98% accepted 40% graduate $51,077 earnings

University's full profile

University of New England

Biddeford, ME · 2,135 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Biddeford, Maine, the University of New England combines a scenic coastal setting with a strong emphasis on health sciences and professional programs. With 2,135 students, it fosters a dynamic environment where students can explore various fields while benefiting from a 92% acceptance rate, making it accessible for many aspiring learners.

92% accepted 65% graduate $55,921 earnings

University's full profile

#10

University of Maine

Orono, ME · 8,496 students · Public

The University of Maine in Orono serves as the flagship campus with a larger enrollment of 8,496 students and a graduation rate of 56%. This university offers a wide array of programs and resources, ideal for students aiming for a comprehensive educational experience in a collaborative setting.

97% accepted 56% graduate $48,653 earnings

University's full profile

#11

Saint Joseph's College of Maine

Standish, ME · 964 students · Private nonprofit

With a median earning of $59,045 ten years after graduation, Saint Joseph's College of Maine prepares students for solid careers. This private nonprofit institution emphasizes a supportive learning environment, which may appeal to students looking for a close-knit community in Standish, Maine.

84% accepted 67% graduate $59,045 earnings

University of Maine at Presque Isle

Presque Isle, ME · 1,913 students · Public

The University of Maine at Presque Isle, located in a scenic part of Maine, features a 100% acceptance rate, making it a welcoming option for many students. This university fosters a supportive environment for its 1,913 students, which can be particularly beneficial for those who thrive on close interactions with faculty and fellow classmates.

100% accepted 45% graduate $40,956 earnings

University's full profile

#13

University of Maine at Farmington

Farmington, ME · 1,140 students · Public

University of Maine at Farmington attracts students interested in a public college experience that balances academics and community. With a 97% acceptance rate, it offers an accessible route for many, and its picturesque campus in Farmington, Maine, is an inviting setting for learning.

97% accepted 52% graduate $44,433 earnings

University's full profile

#14

College of the Atlantic

Bar Harbor, ME · 353 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Bar Harbor, Maine, the College of the Atlantic is known for its intimate learning environment, with just 353 students. The unique focus on human ecology encourages students to think critically about the relationship between people and their environments, fostering a close-knit community that champions sustainability and innovation.

70% accepted 69% graduate $40,264 earnings

College's full profile

#15

University of Maine at Augusta

Augusta, ME · 2,659 students · Public

The University of Maine at Augusta is a solid choice for those seeking flexibility and access to higher education. With a diverse student body of 2,659, it offers a variety of programs tailored to adult learners and those balancing work and study commitments.

25% graduate $40,342 earnings

University's full profile

#16

Unity Environmental University

New Gloucester, ME · 6,483 students · Private nonprofit

Unity Environmental University, located in New Gloucester, is dedicated to environmental studies, attracting students passionate about sustainability and conservation. With a sizeable student population of 6,483, it offers a community that values ecological awareness and hands-on learning experiences.

44% graduate $37,852 earnings

Maine College of Art & Design

Portland, ME · 415 students · Private nonprofit

Located in the vibrant city of Portland, Maine College of Art & Design is a creative hub for students passionate about art and design. With a small student body of just 415, this private nonprofit institution fosters a close-knit community where individual expression and collaboration thrive. The acceptance rate of 76% suggests that the college values diverse backgrounds, making it accessible for many aspiring artists and designers.

76% accepted 50% graduate $40,778 earnings

When comparing Bowdoin College and Bates College, one major difference stands out: earnings. Bowdoin graduates earn $82,735, while Bates graduates earn $69,498. This disparity in income could significantly impact a graduate's financial stability post-college.

As you review these schools, think about your priorities. Consider how location, program fit, and financial aid packages align with your personal goals. A school with a lower net price might seem appealing, but understanding the potential trade-offs in earnings and graduation rates is crucial. Focus on what matters most for your future.

Ultimately, the choice of college shapes not only personal growth but also financial well-being. Selecting a school that enhances your earning potential while balancing costs can lead to a more stable life. One family's decision to prioritize Bowdoin's higher earnings over the lower costs at Fort Kent may pave the way for greater financial security down the line.

Data Sources

U.S. Dept of Education College Scorecard

Opportunity Insights Mobility Report Card

Social Capital Atlas

Times Higher Education World Rankings

NCES IPEDS

Sources & Citations

[1]

U.S. Department of Education. College Scorecard Data. Federal Student Aid, National Center for Education Statistics. →

[2]

National Center for Education Statistics. Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS). →

David Krug

Co-Founder, CollegeRanker

David Krug is the co-founder of CollegeRanker and a data systems architect focused on making institutional research accessible to families. He builds the data pipelines and ranking algorithms that power CollegeRanker, drawing from federal datasets and Raj Chetty's Opportunity Insights research to measure what traditional rankings ignore: whether a college actually changes a family's economic trajectory.

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