Programs in Maine
| Program | Most Affordable School | Net Price |
|---|---|---|
| Accounting and Related Services | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Allied Health Diagnostic, Intervention, and Treatment Professions | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Anthropology | University of Southern Maine | $11,729 |
| Biochemistry, Biophysics and Molecular Biology | University of Southern Maine | $11,729 |
| Biology, General | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Business Administration, Management and Operations | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Chemistry | University of Southern Maine | $11,729 |
| Computer and Information Sciences, General | University of Maine at Fort Kent | $10,865 |
| Computer Science | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Computer/Information Technology Administration and Management | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Criminal Justice and Corrections | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Drama/Theatre Arts and Stagecraft | University of Southern Maine | $11,729 |
| Ecology, Evolution, Systematics, and Population Biology | University of Maine | $18,045 |
| Economics | University of Southern Maine | $11,729 |
| English Language and Literature, General | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Ethnic, Cultural Minority, Gender, and Group Studies | University of Southern Maine | $11,729 |
| Finance and Financial Management Services | University of Maine at Augusta | $11,353 |
| Fine and Studio Arts | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Geological and Earth Sciences/Geosciences | University of Southern Maine | $11,729 |
| Health and Physical Education/Fitness | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| History | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Liberal Arts and Sciences, General Studies and Humanities | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Marketing | University of Southern Maine | $11,729 |
| Mathematics | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Multi/Interdisciplinary Studies, Other | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Music | University of Maine at Augusta | $11,353 |
| Natural Resources Conservation and Research | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Philosophy | University of Southern Maine | $11,729 |
| Physics | University of Southern Maine | $11,729 |
| Political Science and Government | University of Southern Maine | $11,729 |
| Psychology, General | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Registered Nursing, Nursing Administration, Nursing Research and Clinical Nursing | University of Maine at Fort Kent | $10,865 |
| Romance Languages, Literatures, and Linguistics | University of Maine at Fort Kent | $10,865 |
| Social Work | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Sociology | University of Southern Maine | $11,729 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Levels and Methods | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
| Teacher Education and Professional Development, Specific Subject Areas | University of Maine at Presque Isle | $10,028 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Maine's community colleges so affordable compared to four-year schools?
Maine's community colleges charge around $3,500-4,000 annually for in-state students, roughly one-third the cost of four-year institutions. The state subsidizes these programs heavily because they train workers for critical industries like healthcare and tourism that drive Maine's economy.
How do Maine's affordable programs connect to local job opportunities?
Many programs directly serve Maine's key industries. Nursing programs feed into MaineHealth's 64 locations statewide, while culinary programs support the state's $8 billion tourism industry. Marine technology and forestry programs align with traditional Maine occupations.
Is financial aid available for Maine's cheapest college programs?
Yes, Maine offers need-based grants up to $1,250 annually, plus the Opportunity Maine tax credit that forgives state income tax for graduates who stay in Maine. Community college students often qualify for federal Pell Grants covering most tuition costs.
Does completing an affordable associate degree lead to bachelor's degree options?
Maine has strong transfer agreements between its community colleges and University of Maine campuses. Students can complete their first two years for under $8,000 total, then transfer to finish bachelor's degrees at campuses like Orono or Farmington.
Where do graduates of Maine's most affordable programs typically work?
Many find employment with major Maine employers like Bath Iron Works, which hires 6,800 workers, or in the state's 3,500 healthcare facilities. Tourism and hospitality programs feed into Maine's seasonal economy, particularly along the coast and ski areas.
Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships. See our methodology.