Cheapest Fine and Studio Arts Colleges in Maine

Maine's Fine and Studio Arts programs span a remarkable $27,000 price gap, from the University of Maine at Presque Isle's $10,028 net cost to private institutions reaching $37,109. The state's 12 programs serve a creative economy where Bath Iron Works employs designers for naval architecture and Portland's arts district supports galleries and studios. Public universities dominate the affordable end, with four programs under $15,000, while elite liberal arts colleges like Bowdoin achieve 95.6% graduation rates despite higher costs. Earnings vary significantly too, from Maine College of Art & Design graduates earning $21,736 to Bowdoin alumni reaching $30,771.

Programs

$10,028 – $37,109

Net Price Range

$25,707

Avg. Program Earnings

60.7%

Avg. Graduation Rate

12 Fine and Studio Arts Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	University of Maine at Presque Isle Presque Isle, Maine	$10,028	$8,990	37.7%	97.0%
2	University of Maine at Augusta Augusta, Maine	$11,353	$8,618	23.3%
3	University of Southern Maine Portland, Maine	$11,729	$10,920	46.3%	85.4%
4	University of Maine at Farmington Farmington, Maine	$14,873	$10,989	52.8%	94.2%
5	University of Maine Orono, Maine	$18,045	$12,606	56.4%	94.0%
6	Unity Environmental University New Gloucester, Maine	$18,217	$12,640	57.0%	94.3%
7	Bowdoin College Brunswick, Maine	$20,786	$64,910	95.6%	9.2%
8	Colby College Waterville, Maine	$23,939	$66,600	90.2%	7.6%
9	Saint Joseph's College of Maine Standish, Maine	$24,666	$42,834	68.5%	80.8%
10	Bates College Lewiston, Maine	$30,703	$63,478	90.6%	13.7%
11	Maine College of Art & Design Portland, Maine	$36,443	$41,398	48.7%	74.0%
12	University of New England Biddeford, Maine	$37,109	$42,550	60.8%	96.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes public Fine Arts programs in Maine so affordable compared to private colleges?

Maine's public universities offer net costs between $10,028 and $18,045, while private institutions range from $18,217 to $37,109. The Pine Tree State Grant specifically helps in-state students, with public programs charging in-state tuition as low as $8,618 at UMaine Augusta.

How do graduation rates compare between affordable and expensive Fine Arts programs?

The most affordable option, UMaine Presque Isle at $10,028, has a 37.7% graduation rate, while expensive private colleges like Bowdoin ($20,786 net cost) achieve 95.6%. Mid-range public options like UMaine Farmington balance affordability with better outcomes at 52.8% graduation rates.

Does the specialized Maine College of Art & Design justify its $36,443 cost?

Despite being the second-most expensive program, MCAD graduates earn just $21,736, the lowest among schools with earnings data. However, its Portland location connects students directly to Maine's arts scene and galleries.

Where can Fine Arts students find the best value in Maine's job market?

University of Southern Maine offers strong value at $11,729 with $24,615 graduate earnings and Portland location advantages. The city's proximity to tourism, marine industries, and Bath Iron Works creates opportunities for commercial art and design work.

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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.