Rankings / By State

Best Master'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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When considering master's programs in Maine, prospective students are focused on outcomes that matter. These 17 schools share a commitment to preparing graduates for success in the workforce, which is reflected in their earnings and graduation rates. On average, graduates from these programs earn $54,234, a figure that highlights the potential returns on investment in higher education.

What sets the top-performing schools apart are key metrics like earnings, graduation rates, and student debt levels. The list below ranks these institutions based on their graduate outcomes, emphasizing the importance of not just completing a program but doing so in a way that leads to financial stability. For example, Bowdoin College leads with impressive earnings of $82,735, reflecting its strong performance in preparing students for their careers.

Take Bowdoin College and Maine Maritime Academy: Bowdoin graduates earn over $82,000, while Maine Maritime Academy's graduates earn about $90,000. However, the tradeoff is evident in graduation rates, with Bowdoin boasting a 95% completion rate compared to Maine Maritime's 60%. This contrast illustrates the critical balance between earning potential and program quality that students must consider as they make their choices.

Key Findings

Bowdoin College graduates earn $82,735, the highest among Maine's master's programs.

Colby College has an 89% graduation rate, significantly higher than the state average of 59%.

Maine Maritime Academy graduates face $27,000 in average debt despite earning $89,964 annually.

University of Maine at Fort Kent has the lowest average earnings at $51,077 and a 40% graduation rate.

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

Master's programs in Maine ranked by graduate outcomes

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, Maine, is known for its strong academic support and vibrant campus life. The median earnings for graduates ten years out are impressive at $82,735, reflecting the college's commitment to student success and career readiness.

7% accepted 95% graduate $82,735 earnings

Bowdoin's full profile

Colby College

Waterville, ME · 2,407 students · Private nonprofit

Colby College, situated in Waterville, Maine, is a place where students can engage deeply in their studies while enjoying a beautiful campus. With a graduation rate of 89% and a median earning of $80,490 for graduates ten years later, the college prepares students for meaningful careers in a variety of fields.

7% accepted 89% graduate $80,490 earnings

Bates College

Lewiston, ME · 1,760 students · Private nonprofit

Located in Lewiston, Maine, Bates College invites students to be part of a dynamic learning community with a graduation rate of 90%. Although the median earnings of $69,498 for graduates ten years after leaving may seem lower than some peers, Bates fosters a unique educational experience that emphasizes critical thinking and social responsibility.

13% accepted 90% graduate $69,498 earnings

Maine Maritime Academy

Castine, ME · 942 students · Public

Maine Maritime Academy in Castine is a unique public institution that attracts students interested in maritime and engineering fields. With a graduation rate of 60%, it emphasizes hands-on learning and real-world applications, resulting in an impressive median earning of $89,964 for graduates ten years after completion.

54% accepted 60% graduate $89,964 earnings

Husson University

Bangor, ME · 2,618 students · Private nonprofit

Husson University in Bangor offers a comprehensive educational experience with a focus on preparing students for successful careers. With 2,618 students, it maintains an 81% acceptance rate, allowing a diverse group of individuals to pursue their educational goals in a vibrant community setting.

81% accepted 58% graduate $45,025 earnings

Husson's full profile

Thomas College

Waterville, ME · 647 students · Private nonprofit

In the heart of Waterville, Thomas College is known for its focused, career-oriented programs that cater to students eager to enter the workforce. With a student population of 647 and a 96% acceptance rate, it promotes a friendly environment where students can pursue their passions without the pressure of fierce competition.

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 vibrant campus life with 4,222 students who enjoy access to urban amenities while still being part of a close community. With an acceptance rate of 79%, it’s a solid choice for students looking for a balance between accessibility and a diverse academic experience.

79% accepted 43% graduate $49,958 earnings

University's full profile

University of Maine at Fort Kent

Fort Kent, ME · 599 students · Public

With an acceptance rate of 98%, the University of Maine at Fort Kent welcomes nearly everyone who applies, making it a great option for students looking for an accessible college experience. Despite its small size of around 599 students, the school offers a close-knit community where faculty and staff can provide personalized support to help students succeed.

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, ME, the University of New England attracts students with a strong interest in health sciences and liberal arts. With 2,135 students, the school emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, allowing students to explore various fields before choosing their paths. The welcoming atmosphere encourages collaboration, helping students thrive both academically and socially.

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 offers a rich academic environment with a larger community of about 8,496 students. It's a great option for those who prefer a more traditional college experience, with a variety of programs and resources that can help students thrive in their studies and beyond.

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 solid median earnings figure of $59,045 ten years after graduation, Saint Joseph's College of Maine reflects a commitment to ensuring students find meaningful careers. The college has cultivated a close-knit environment with a relatively small student body of 964, allowing for personalized attention that can foster academic success and professional growth.

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, with its 1,913 students, fosters a friendly atmosphere where everyone knows each other. With a 100% acceptance rate, it’s an inviting option for students ready to take their next steps in education, especially those who thrive in smaller settings with a strong sense of community.

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 may be especially appealing to students looking for a public university experience with a strong community feel. Home to 1,140 students, it has a welcoming acceptance rate of 97%, suggesting that a diverse group of learners can thrive in its programs.

97% accepted 52% graduate $44,433 earnings

University's full profile

#14

College of the Atlantic

Bar Harbor, ME · 353 students · Private nonprofit

With a tight-knit community of just 353 students, the College of the Atlantic in Bar Harbor, ME, emphasizes a unique approach to education focused on human ecology. The school prides itself on fostering a connection between students and the environment, preparing graduates to tackle real-world challenges with a holistic perspective. This intimate setting allows for personalized learning experiences and strong student-faculty relationships.

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 serves as an accessible option for students seeking a public education in a welcoming environment. With a student body of 2,659, it caters to a diverse range of learners, including many non-traditional students looking to balance education with work or family. This flexibility can be a huge advantage for those navigating life while pursuing their degrees.

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, ME, focuses on environmental and sustainability studies, attracting students passionate about making a difference. With 6,483 students, the university emphasizes hands-on experience, blending classroom learning with practical applications. This approach helps students engage with pressing global issues in a meaningful way.

44% graduate $37,852 earnings

Maine College of Art & Design

Portland, ME · 415 students · Private nonprofit

Maine College of Art & Design, located in the vibrant city of Portland, nurtures creative minds in a supportive environment. With a focus on visual arts and design, this school invites students to explore their artistic potential through hands-on experiences and personalized mentorship, all within a close-knit community of just 415 students.

76% accepted 50% graduate $40,778 earnings

When we look closely at the numbers, a pattern emerges. Bowdoin College not only has the highest earnings at $82,735 but also a remarkable graduation rate of 95%. In contrast, Maine Maritime Academy has slightly higher earnings at $89,964, but its graduation rate is only 60%. This disparity suggests that while earning potential is crucial, the ability to complete a program successfully should not be overlooked.

For students navigating the options, it's essential to weigh these outcomes against personal priorities. Consider factors like location, program fit, and financial implications. If a school offers strong earnings but comes with high debt and low graduation rates, it may not align with your long-term goals. Take time to think about what matters most to you and how these programs will help you achieve that.

Ultimately, the decisions we make about education can shape our future stability. A family weighing options might prioritize a school with a strong graduation rate and manageable debt, knowing that the path to a solid life often involves more than just high earnings. Choosing the right program can set the foundation for a successful career, making it crucial to find the right balance.

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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