Rankings / By State

Best Colleges in Maine

By David Krug, Co-Founder, CollegeRanker · Updated 2026-05-31 · 23 schools · Agent Insights

Schools Analyzed

$50,959

Avg. Earnings (10yr)

52%

Avg. Graduation Rate

$16,951

Avg. Net Price

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Maine is home to a diverse range of colleges, each offering unique opportunities for students. With 23 institutions to choose from, prospective students and families are considering factors like graduation rates, earnings potential, and student debt as they navigate their options.

The schools on this list stand out for their strong outcomes. Key metrics to pay attention to include average earnings after graduation, graduation rates, and net student debt. These figures reflect not just the quality of education but also the financial realities students may face post-college. Understanding how these schools compare can help students make informed choices about their futures.

Take Bowdoin College and the University of Maine at Fort Kent as examples. Bowdoin graduates earn an impressive $82,735 on average, with a 95% graduation rate, while Fort Kent graduates earn significantly less at $51,077, with only a 40% graduation rate. These contrasts highlight the impact that institution type and resources can have on student success and financial stability.

Key Findings

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

Colby College has a graduation rate of 89%, meaning most students complete their degree.

University of Maine at Fort Kent has the lowest graduation rate on this list at just 40%.

$14,398 is the average net price for attending Bowdoin College, which is relatively low given their earnings.

Quick Numbers

Schools ranked 23

Avg. earnings at 10yr $50,959

Avg. graduation rate 52%

Avg. net price $16,951

Avg. median debt $19,717

How We Ranked

Composite score for institutions in Maine

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, is committed to ensuring students succeed. Its robust academic programs and supportive community prepare graduates for high-earning careers, with median earnings of $82,735 a decade after graduation.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College, located in Waterville, ME, has a rich history of academic excellence and a vibrant campus life. The 89% graduation rate reflects a strong commitment to student success, and graduates enjoy median earnings of $80,490 after ten years, suggesting that a Colby education pays off in the long run.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Bates College in Lewiston, ME, is known for its strong liberal arts curriculum and a commitment to diversity. With a graduation rate of 90%, Bates encourages students to engage deeply in their studies, leading to median earnings of $69,498 a decade after graduation, which shows that the value of a Bates degree is significant.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Maine Maritime Academy

Castine, ME · 942 students · Public

Maine Maritime Academy in Castine, ME, offers a unique focus on marine-related programs, preparing students for lucrative careers with median earnings of $89,964 by their tenth year after graduation. However, the graduation rate is 60%, which is lower than some peers, suggesting that the program may be challenging for some.

54% accepted 60% graduate $89,964 earnings

Husson University

Bangor, ME · 2,618 students · Private nonprofit

Husson University, located in Bangor, ME, is home to 2,618 students and emphasizes career readiness, making it an appealing option for those focused on tangible post-graduation outcomes. With a graduation rate of 58%, the university supports students in navigating their educational paths toward successful careers.

81% accepted 58% graduate $45,025 earnings

Husson's full profile

Thomas College

Waterville, ME · 647 students · Private nonprofit

With a welcoming acceptance rate of 96%, Thomas College in Waterville, ME, opens its doors to a diverse group of students eager to pursue their educational goals. The school maintains a close-knit environment, with 647 students fostering a sense of community that can be both comforting and motivating during their academic journey.

96% accepted 53% graduate $44,991 earnings

Thomas's full profile

University of New England

Biddeford, ME · 2,135 students · Private nonprofit

With a student body of about 2,135, the University of New England in Biddeford offers a close-knit community and a focus on health sciences, environmental studies, and marine biology. Graduates see a median earning of $55,921 after ten years, suggesting that many find good-paying jobs in their fields after leaving the school.

92% accepted 65% graduate $55,921 earnings

University's full profile

University of Southern Maine

Portland, ME · 4,222 students · Public

Located in Portland, the University of Southern Maine caters to a larger student body of about 4,222, creating a dynamic campus environment. The school’s commitment to accessibility is seen in its 79% acceptance rate, making it an ideal option for students from various backgrounds looking for a comprehensive education.

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 draws students from diverse backgrounds into a close-knit community. The relatively small campus, hosting around 599 students, offers a personalized educational experience, which can be especially appealing for those seeking guidance and support in their academic journey.

98% accepted 40% graduate $51,077 earnings

University's full profile

#10

University of Maine

Orono, ME · 8,496 students · Public

The University of Maine in Orono is a larger public university with 8,496 students and a graduation rate of 56%. Known for its diverse array of programs and campus life, it welcomes a wide range of students who thrive in a vibrant academic setting and are eager to participate in research opportunities and extracurricular activities.

97% accepted 56% graduate $48,653 earnings

University's full profile

#11

Saint Joseph's College of Maine

Standish, ME · 964 students · Private nonprofit

In the serene setting of Standish, Saint Joseph's College of Maine enrolls 964 students, blending personalized education with a strong commitment to community service. This private nonprofit institution emphasizes values-driven education, attracting students who are looking for a well-rounded experience that extends beyond academics.

84% accepted 67% graduate $59,045 earnings

University of Maine at Farmington

Farmington, ME · 1,140 students · Public

Nestled in the picturesque town of Farmington, the University of Maine at Farmington attracts around 1,140 students who seek a liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on community engagement. The campus environment fosters close relationships between students and faculty, enhancing the overall learning experience and encouraging personal growth.

97% accepted 52% graduate $44,433 earnings

University's full profile

#13

College of the Atlantic

Bar Harbor, ME · 353 students · Private nonprofit

Nestled in Bar Harbor, ME, the College of the Atlantic is a unique institution with only 353 students, emphasizing an experiential learning approach. With a graduation rate of 69%, it attracts those interested in interdisciplinary studies and sustainability, appealing to students who want to engage deeply with their coursework and community.

70% accepted 69% graduate $40,264 earnings

College's full profile

#14

Northern Maine Community College

Presque Isle, ME · 638 students · Public

Northern Maine Community College is situated in Presque Isle, serving a community of about 638 students. The college's focus on accessible education is reflected in its 56% Pell Grant recipient rate, making it a solid choice for those who might need financial assistance while pursuing their goals.

38% graduate $43,348 earnings

Northern's full profile

#15

York County Community College

Wells, ME · 1,133 students · Public

Located in Wells, Maine, York County Community College serves a close-knit student body of 1,133. With a graduation rate of 31%, it’s a place where students can find personalized support and guidance as they work toward their degrees, especially in a community-oriented environment.

31% graduate $44,873 earnings

Eastern Maine Community College

Bangor, ME · 1,840 students · Public

With a close-knit community of around 1,840 students, Eastern Maine Community College in Bangor provides an intimate setting for learning. The college serves as a gateway for many students, particularly those seeking vocational and technical degrees, where they can develop practical skills that lead to direct employment opportunities.

33% graduate $41,704 earnings

Eastern's full profile

#17

University of Maine at Presque Isle

Presque Isle, ME · 1,913 students · Public

For students looking for a supportive and accessible environment, the University of Maine at Presque Isle has a 100% acceptance rate and a vibrant campus of around 1,913 students. The college emphasizes inclusivity, which is reflected in its 24% Pell Grant recipient rate, making it a great fit for a wide range of applicants.

100% accepted 45% graduate $40,956 earnings

University's full profile

#18

Kennebec Valley Community College

Fairfield, ME · 1,597 students · Public

Kennebec Valley Community College, situated in Fairfield, Maine, caters to 1,597 students and has a graduation rate of 44%. This college is known for its supportive atmosphere, making it a great choice for students looking for smaller class sizes and more individualized attention as they navigate their academic journey.

44% graduate $36,035 earnings

Kennebec's full profile

#19

Central Maine Community College

Auburn, ME · 2,952 students · Public

Central Maine Community College, located in Auburn, serves a student population of 2,952 and has a graduation rate of 29%. This campus is ideal for those who appreciate a supportive environment where they can receive guidance from faculty and connect with a community of peers who share their academic ambitions.

29% graduate $42,448 earnings

Central's full profile

#20

Southern Maine Community College

South Portland, ME · 5,675 students · Public

Southern Maine Community College, located in South Portland, is home to over 5,600 students and offers a wide array of programs designed to cater to local workforce needs. This public institution nurtures an inclusive environment where students can engage in hands-on learning experiences, preparing them for careers in high-demand fields.

24% graduate $41,661 earnings

Southern's full profile

#21

University of Maine at Augusta

Augusta, ME · 2,659 students · Public

The University of Maine at Augusta serves a diverse student body of 2,659 and is recognized for its flexible learning options. With a graduation rate of just 25%, it might not seem like an obvious choice, but the university is committed to helping non-traditional students balance education with other responsibilities, making it a practical option for many.

25% graduate $40,342 earnings

University's full profile

#22

Unity Environmental University

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

Unity Environmental University, located in New Gloucester, has a unique mission centered around sustainability and environmental education, attracting students passionate about these issues. With a student population of 6,483, it champions a strong commitment to hands-on learning, but it has a lower graduation rate of 44%, indicating that not all students find their path here.

44% graduate $37,852 earnings

Maine College of Art & Design

Portland, ME · 415 students · Private nonprofit

At Maine College of Art & Design in Portland, creativity is at the forefront with a small but vibrant community of 415 students. This school is designed for those who want to immerse themselves in art and design, but it faces challenges, reflected in a graduation rate of 50%. The environment fosters artistic expression, yet students should be aware of these statistics as they consider their options.

76% accepted 50% graduate $40,778 earnings

When comparing schools, Bowdoin College and Maine Maritime Academy illustrate the importance of outcomes. While Maine Maritime Academy boasts the highest average earnings at $89,964, it also has a lower graduation rate of 60%. In contrast, Bowdoin not only provides high earnings but also supports a 95% graduation rate, indicating a more supportive environment for students.

As you assess these schools, consider how their metrics align with your personal priorities. Are you looking for strong earning potential post-graduation, or is a lower net price more appealing? Reflect on how each institution's graduation rate and debt levels match your financial situation and career aspirations. This can help you narrow down your choices effectively.

The data here underscores the critical connection between college education and future financial stability. For many families, choosing a school isn’t just about academics; it’s about paving a path toward a secure life. Each decision carries weight, influencing not only the college experience but also long-term outcomes in earnings and debt management.

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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