5 Economics Programs
| # | School | Net Price | Program Earnings | In-State Tuition | Graduation Rate | Acceptance Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
University of Southern Maine
Portland, Maine
|
$11,729 | $41,565 | $10,920 | 46.3% | 85.4% |
| 2 |
Bowdoin College
Brunswick, Maine
|
$20,786 | $71,015 | $64,910 | 95.6% | 9.2% |
| 3 |
University of Maine
Orono, Maine
|
$18,045 | $45,808 | $12,606 | 56.4% | 94.0% |
| 4 |
Colby College
Waterville, Maine
|
$23,939 | $57,995 | $66,600 | 90.2% | 7.6% |
| 5 |
Bates College
Lewiston, Maine
|
$30,703 | $69,338 | $63,478 | 90.6% | 13.7% |
Frequently Asked Questions
What explains the massive earnings gap between Maine economics programs?
Bowdoin College graduates earn $71,015 compared to $41,565 at University of Southern Maine, reflecting the elite liberal arts advantage. Bowdoin's 95.60% graduation rate and extensive alumni networks in finance create superior career placement. The $29,450 earnings difference often justifies the higher net cost for families who can afford it.
How do Maine's public universities compare for economics value?
University of Maine in Orono costs $18,045 net but produces graduates earning $45,808, offering better value than USM's $11,729 cost and $41,565 earnings. UMaine's 56.40% graduation rate also exceeds USM's 46.30%. Both schools benefit from strong connections to Maine's government and business sectors.
Does attending a selective Maine college guarantee higher economics earnings?
Bowdoin and Bates graduates earn $71,015 and $69,338 respectively, far above state averages, but their combined acceptance rate under 12% makes admission extremely competitive. Colby offers similar selectivity at 7.61% acceptance but lower $57,995 earnings. These schools excel at placing graduates in high-paying finance and consulting roles.
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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.