Cheapest Natural Resources Conservation and Research Colleges in Maine

Natural Resources Conservation and Research students in Maine can start their careers for as little as $10,028 annually at University of Maine at Presque Isle, where 97% of applicants gain admission. The state's 13 programs span a remarkable cost range up to $37,109, with public universities claiming eight of the most affordable spots. Maine's solid forest products industry and extensive coastline create strong demand for conservation professionals, particularly as Bath Iron Works and other marine employers increasingly focus on environmental compliance. Early career graduates from these programs earn between $24,615 and $37,568, reflecting the state's growing investment in sustainable resource management.

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	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 Fort Kent Fort Kent, Maine	$10,865	$9,045	39.8%	99.2%
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	Husson University Bangor, Maine	$20,798	$22,194	56.7%	91.3%
9	Maine Maritime Academy Castine, Maine	$21,185	$14,746	61.4%	57.7%
10	Colby College Waterville, Maine	$23,939	$66,600	90.2%	7.6%
11	Saint Joseph's College of Maine Standish, Maine	$24,666	$42,834	68.5%	80.8%
12	Bates College Lewiston, Maine	$30,703	$63,478	90.6%	13.7%
13	University of New England Biddeford, Maine	$37,109	$42,550	60.8%	96.3%

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes University of Maine at Presque Isle the most affordable option for conservation studies?

At just $10,028 net cost annually, UMPI offers the lowest-priced Natural Resources Conservation program in Maine. The university maintains a 97% acceptance rate while providing access to the state's northern forests and agricultural regions for hands-on fieldwork.

How do graduation rates vary among Maine's conservation programs?

Graduation rates range dramatically from 38% at University of Maine at Fort Kent to 96% at Bowdoin College. The University of Maine flagship campus in Orono achieves a solid 56% graduation rate while maintaining relatively affordable costs at $18,045 net annually.

Does attending a private college significantly impact earning potential in conservation careers?

University of New England graduates earn $33,993 early in their careers, notably higher than the $24,615 earned by University of Maine graduates. However, the private school's $37,109 annual cost represents more than double the flagship university's expenses.

Where do Maine conservation graduates find employment after graduation?

Maine's marine industries, including Bath Iron Works, increasingly hire conservation specialists for environmental compliance roles. The state's extensive forest products sector and growing tourism industry also create opportunities for resource management professionals throughout coastal and inland regions.

More Natural Resources Conservation and Research Rankings

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

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.