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Best Value Natural Resources Conservation and Research Colleges in Maine

Ranked by best return on investment (earnings vs. cost). See our methodology.

Maine's Natural Resources Conservation and Research programs show striking cost differences, with University of Maine at Presque Isle charging just $10,028 compared to University of New England's $37,109. The earnings gap proves equally telling, as University of Southern Maine graduates earn $37,568 while University of Maine graduates start at $24,615. These programs connect directly to Maine's $2.8 billion forest products industry and growing aquaculture sector, where companies like MaineHealth and Bath Iron Works increasingly need environmental compliance specialists. Public universities dominate the affordable options, with five schools under $15,000 net cost.
13
Programs
$10,028 – $37,109
Net Price Range
$29,545
Avg. Program Earnings
62.6%
Avg. Graduation Rate

13 Natural Resources Conservation and Research Programs

Program rankings
# School Net Price Program Earnings In-State Tuition Graduation Rate Acceptance Rate
1 $11,729 $37,568 $10,920 46.3% 85.4%
2 $18,045 $24,615 $12,606 56.4% 94.0%
3 $20,786 $25,194 $64,910 95.6% 9.2%
4 $37,109 $33,993 $42,550 60.8% 96.3%
5 $30,703 $26,353 $63,478 90.6% 13.7%
6 $23,939 $66,600 90.2% 7.6%
7 $14,873 $10,989 52.8% 94.2%
8 $10,865 $9,045 39.8% 99.2%
9 $21,185 $14,746 61.4% 57.7%
10 $10,028 $8,990 37.7% 97.0%
11 $24,666 $42,834 68.5% 80.8%
12 $18,217 $12,640 57.0% 94.3%
13 $20,798 $22,194 56.7% 91.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $27,000 cost difference between the cheapest and most expensive programs?

University of Maine at Presque Isle offers the lowest net cost at $10,028 as a public institution, while University of New England reaches $37,109 as a private nonprofit. Public universities in Maine receive state funding that significantly reduces student costs, with six public options averaging $14,520 compared to private schools averaging $25,902.

How do graduation rates vary across different price points?

The most expensive schools deliver the highest completion rates, with Bowdoin College achieving 95.6% graduation at $20,786 net cost. However, University of Maine at Presque Isle manages only 37.7% graduation despite its $10,028 affordability. Mid-range options like Unity Environmental University balance both factors with 57% graduation at $18,217.

Does University of Southern Maine justify its higher cost with better earnings?

University of Southern Maine graduates earn $37,568, the highest among all 13 programs, making its $11,729 net cost extremely competitive. This represents a 53% higher starting salary than University of Maine graduates who earn $24,615. The Portland location provides access to more environmental consulting firms and state agencies.

Which schools offer the best debt-to-earnings ratios for this field?

Bates College produces graduates with only $9,614 in debt who earn $26,353, creating the most favorable ratio. University of Maine at Presque Isle eliminates debt concerns entirely with its low $10,028 cost, though earnings data remains unavailable. University of Southern Maine balances $26,000 debt against $37,568 earnings for strong financial outcomes.

More Natural Resources Conservation and Research Rankings

Cheapest Natural Resources Conservation and Research in Maine Natural Resources Conservation and Research Under $20,000 in Maine

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All Natural Resources Conservation and Research Programs Best Colleges in Maine Best Natural Resources Conservation and Research in Maine

Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.