These Are Maine’s 5 Highest-Ranked Colleges, According to Experts
Maine may be small, but it offers plenty when it comes to quality of life. And that certainly includes many opportunities for some excellent higher learning.
Education holds an important place for many Mainers. According to the U.S. Census, more than 35% of residents have earned a bachelor’s degree or higher, ranking the state 18th nationwide and above the national average.
That commitment to learning is reflected in the wide range of colleges and universities across the state, giving residents access to strong opportunities for higher education close to home.
What Colleges are Considered the Best in Maine?
So, which are the best options? According to the education site Niche.com, five truly stand out above the rest. The site uses data from the U.S. Department of Education, evaluating categories such as academics, admissions, and student life to determine the top schools. You can read more about their methodology here.
So, without further ado, here are the top five colleges in Maine, according to Niche.
What are the Best Ranked Colleges in Maine?
5. Husson University – Located in Bangor, Husson offers a wealth of academic options in a close-knit setting. Class sizes are small, which is a major bonus for a public institution.
Overall Niche Grade: B
4. University of Maine - The state’s flagship public university ranks at number four on the list. Located in Orono, UMaine has a great campus with many amenities, including exceptional student life. It also offers strong academics, including a highly regarded engineering school.
Overall Niche Grade: B
3. Colby College – The first of the "Little Ivies," this Central Maine college ranks as the third-best in the state. Colby is known for its outstanding academic opportunities, impressive facilities, and high post-graduation salary rates.
Overall Niche Grade: A
2. Bates College – Located in Lewiston, Bates College excels in student development and academic support. It also offers a unique “Short Term” in the spring that promotes immersive and intensive learning experiences.
Overall Niche Grade: A
1. Bowdoin College – Topping the list, Bowdoin College—another of the “Little Ivies”—is a Midcoast Maine gem frequently featured on national “best of” lists. Known for its excellent academic programs, strong job placement, and one of the most beautiful campuses in the region, it’s no surprise Bowdoin claims the top spot.
Overall Niche Grade: A+
I must say, that’s quite a venerable list of Maine institutions. It’s easy to take for granted how fortunate we are to live in a state that prides itself on offering ample opportunities to pursue knowledge at a number of outstanding schools—many of them right in our own backyard.
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There are also many other universities across the state where students can receive an excellent education, including Maine’s community college system, which currently offers free tuition to eligible residents. That’s a pretty good deal, if you ask me.
Maine's College and University Mascots Ranked
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