Overview
The University of Maine, established in 1865 in Orono, is the flagship public research institution of the state. UMaine is known for pairing strong academics with real-world fieldwork, offering undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral programs through colleges that include engineering, forestry, marine sciences, business, and education. The university is particularly recognized for research in environmental and coastal science, which supports solutions to issues affecting Maine and the broader North Atlantic region. Students also benefit from learning in a scenic setting along the Penobscot River, where campus life and outdoor access make it easier to stay engaged in projects, clubs, and internships. UMaine’s modern laboratories, dedicated faculty, and active student organizations help support hands-on learning and community partnerships with industry and public agencies.
If you’re comparing public research universities in New England, you may also want to review similar options such as the University of New Hampshire and the University of Massachusetts Amherst, both of which offer strong programs and research opportunities.
2. General Information
| University Name | University of Maine |
| Location | Orono, Maine, USA |
| Founded | 1865 |
| Type | Public Research University |
| Website | https://umaine.edu/ |
3. Fee Structure
| In-State Tuition | Approx. $11,750 per year |
| Out-of-State Tuition | Approx. $29,100 per year |
| Room and Board | Approx. $11,500 per year |
Tuition and housing costs can change by academic year, so it’s a good idea to confirm the latest figures on the university’s official billing and cost pages before you plan your budget.
4. Academic Programs
- Engineering
- Forestry & Natural Resources
- Marine & Environmental Sciences
- Business & Economics
- Education & Human Development
- Communication & Journalism
Because UMaine’s academic strengths overlap with environmental science, engineering design, and applied field research, students often find that internships and research assistant roles connect directly to their coursework. If you’re comparing programs beyond Maine, you can also explore how other public research universities structure similar research-heavy pathways, such as at the University of Minnesota.
5. Facilities
- Advanced Research Laboratories
- John W. Olver Design Building
- Maine Folklife Center
- Memorial Gym and Fitness Centers
- Libraries and Student Union
UMaine’s facilities support both STEM and humanities engagement, which is helpful for students who want access to labs and study spaces, while also participating in cultural and community-based programs through campus centers.
6. Accommodation
- On-campus residence halls
- Living-learning communities
- Apartment-style housing
- Meal plans and dining halls
- Study lounges and campus support services
Living-learning communities can be especially useful for first-year students, since they make it easier to connect with classmates who share academic interests and to access academic support in a more structured way.
If you want to broaden your comparisons, you can review how other public universities in different regions approach student life and campus housing—for example, the University of Montana—to see what different campus communities prioritize.
7. Contact Information
- Email: admissions@maine.edu
- Phone: +1 207-581-1110
- Address: Orono, ME 04473, United States
