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Best Nursing Schools in Maine: Programs, Tuition & How to Apply

GradeToGrad Editorial Team

February 13, 2026

Maine has 13 accredited nursing programs offering affordable pathways from associate to master's degrees. Compare tuition, acceptance rates, and graduate earnings across universities and community colleges.

Overview of Nursing Education in Maine

Maine's nursing education landscape offers diverse pathways for aspiring healthcare professionals, from affordable two-year associate degree programs to comprehensive four-year bachelor's and master's degree options. With 13 accredited nursing programs across the state—5 community colleges and 8 universities—students can find programs that match their budget, timeline, and career goals.

The state's nursing programs range significantly in cost and selectivity. Community college tuition starts as low as $3,562 per year at Kennebec Valley Community College, while private universities like University of New England charge $42,550 annually. However, the investment often pays off: nursing graduates in Maine earn competitive salaries, with master's degree holders earning between $100,726 and $205,893 annually, depending on the institution and program level.

Maine's nursing shortage—like much of the nation—creates strong job demand for new graduates. The state's aging population and rural healthcare needs mean nursing positions remain plentiful across hospitals, clinics, and long-term care facilities.

Top University Nursing Programs in Maine

University of New England (Biddeford)

Program Type: Bachelor's and Master's Degrees
Tuition: $42,550/year
Acceptance Rate: 88.8%
Graduation Rate: 60.1%
Graduate Earnings: $205,893/year (Master's Degree)
Enrollment: 2,189 students

University of New England stands out as Maine's highest-earning nursing program, with master's degree graduates earning over $205,000 annually. While tuition is the highest among Maine schools, the strong earnings potential and 60.1% graduation rate suggest robust program quality and student success. UNE's location in Biddeford provides access to southern Maine's healthcare network.

Husson University (Bangor)

Program Type: Bachelor's and Master's Degrees
Tuition: $22,194/year
Acceptance Rate: 86.4%
Graduation Rate: 58.3%
Graduate Earnings: $119,742/year (Master's Degree)
Enrollment: 2,395 students

Husson offers a middle-ground option: moderate tuition costs with strong graduation rates and solid earning potential. Located in Bangor, Husson serves central and northern Maine students and maintains competitive admission standards with an 86.4% acceptance rate.

Saint Joseph's College of Maine (Standish)

Program Type: Bachelor's and Master's Degrees
Tuition: $42,834/year
Acceptance Rate: 81.7%
Graduation Rate: 69.1%
Graduate Earnings: $102,406/year (Master's Degree)
Enrollment: 930 students

Saint Joseph's boasts Maine's highest graduation rate at 69.1%, indicating strong student support and program effectiveness. Though tuition is comparable to UNE, the smaller enrollment (930 students) may offer more personalized attention. This school is ideal for students prioritizing completion and graduation success.

University of Southern Maine (Portland)

Program Type: Bachelor's and Master's Degrees
Tuition: $10,920/year (in-state)
Acceptance Rate: 79.3%
Graduation Rate: 44.2%
Graduate Earnings: $100,726/year (Master's Degree)
Enrollment: 4,245 students

USM offers excellent value as a public university with in-state tuition under $11,000 annually. Located in Portland, Maine's largest city, USM provides strong clinical placement opportunities and urban healthcare exposure. Master's graduates earn over $100,000, making it a cost-effective choice for career advancement.

University of Maine (Orono)

Program Type: Bachelor's and Master's Degrees
Tuition: $12,606/year (in-state)
Acceptance Rate: 95.7%
Graduation Rate: 55.9%
Graduate Earnings: $105,089/year (Master's Degree)
Enrollment: 8,341 students

As Maine's flagship public university, UMaine offers the most accessible admission (95.7% acceptance) and affordable in-state tuition. The large enrollment (8,341 students) means robust resources and clinical partnerships. This is an excellent option for students seeking affordability without sacrificing earning potential.

University of Maine at Augusta

Program Type: Bachelor's Degree
Tuition: $8,618/year (in-state)
Graduation Rate: 23.3%
Graduate Earnings: $55,441/year (Bachelor's Degree)
Enrollment: 2,759 students

UMA offers the lowest tuition among four-year universities but has the lowest graduation rate (23.3%) among Maine nursing programs. This program may work for highly self-motivated students but requires careful consideration of support services and program structure.

University of Maine at Fort Kent

Program Type: Bachelor's Degree
Tuition: $9,045/year (in-state)
Acceptance Rate: 99.1%
Graduation Rate: 38.0%
Graduate Earnings: $63,248/year (Bachelor's Degree)
Enrollment: 638 students

Located in northern Maine, UMFK serves a rural region with critical healthcare needs. The 99.1% acceptance rate reflects an open-admission approach, though the 38% graduation rate suggests students should seek strong academic support.

Maine College of Health Professions (Lewiston)

Program Type: Associate's Degree
Tuition: $17,827/year
Acceptance Rate: 33.3%
Graduate Earnings: $59,414/year (Associate's Degree)
Enrollment: 228 students

MCHP is Maine's most selective nursing program with a 33.3% acceptance rate. The small cohort (228 students) suggests intensive, specialized training. However, the associate's degree earnings are lower than expected, so prospective students should clarify program outcomes and career pathways.

Community College Nursing Programs: The Affordable ADN Path

Maine's five community colleges offer the most affordable entry into nursing with tuition ranging from $3,562 to $3,880 per year. These Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) programs prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam and provide immediate career entry.

Southern Maine Community College (South Portland)

Tuition: $3,797/year
Graduate Earnings: $60,417/year
Enrollment: 5,279 students

SMCC serves the Portland metropolitan area with the highest enrollment among Maine community colleges. Strong clinical partnerships with southern Maine hospitals provide excellent clinical experience.

Central Maine Community College (Auburn)

Tuition: $3,864/year
Graduate Earnings: $56,436/year
Enrollment: 2,828 students

Located in Auburn, CMCC serves central Maine and offers competitive tuition with regional healthcare partnerships.

Eastern Maine Community College (Bangor)

Tuition: $3,877/year
Graduate Earnings: $69,158/year
Enrollment: 1,692 students

EMCC offers the highest earning potential among Maine's community colleges at $69,158 annually, suggesting strong graduate outcomes and regional job market strength.

Kennebec Valley Community College (Fairfield)

Tuition: $3,562/year
Graduate Earnings: $56,730/year
Enrollment: 1,538 students

KVCC has Maine's lowest community college tuition, making it the most affordable nursing pathway in the state.

Northern Maine Community College (Presque Isle)

Tuition: $3,880/year
Graduate Earnings: $55,060/year
Enrollment: 577 students

NMCC serves Maine's northernmost region and provides critical nursing education to a rural area facing healthcare workforce shortages.

How to Choose the Right Nursing Program

Consider Your Financial Situation

Budget-conscious students should prioritize community colleges ($3,562–$3,880/year) or public universities with in-state tuition (University of Maine at $12,606/year or University of Southern Maine at $10,920/year). Over a four-year degree, this saves $100,000+ compared to private universities.

Career advancement seekers may justify higher tuition at universities offering master's degrees, where graduates earn $100,000–$205,000 annually. Calculate your return on investment: a $42,550/year private university costs $170,200 for four years, but if master's degree earnings are $150,000+ annually, the investment pays for itself in 1-2 years.

Evaluate Graduation Rates

Graduation rates vary dramatically: Saint Joseph's College (69.1%) versus University of Maine at Augusta (23.3%). A low graduation rate may indicate inadequate support services, challenging coursework, or poor student-program fit. Ask programs about tutoring, mentorship, and remedial support.

Assess Admission Competitiveness

Highly selective: Maine College of Health Professions (33.3%)
Moderately selective: University of New England (88.8%), Husson (86.4%)
Open admission: University of Maine at Fort Kent (99.1%), University of Maine (95.7%)

Your GPA and test scores should align with program selectivity. Don't assume selective = better; some selective programs have lower graduation rates.

Location and Clinical Placements

Maine's geography matters. Students in Portland have access to Maine Medical Center and urban healthcare systems. Northern students benefit from regional medical centers in Bangor and Presque Isle. Rural placements may better prepare you for Maine's healthcare workforce needs.

ADN vs. BSN vs. Master's Entry

ADN (2 years, $7,000–$8,000 total): Fastest entry to nursing; limited advancement without further education
BSN (4 years, $40,000–$170,000 total): Better earning potential and career flexibility; more competitive for specialty roles
Master's Entry (2–3 years, $50,000–$130,000): For career changers with bachelor's degrees; highest earning potential

Nursing Job Market in Maine

Maine faces a significant nursing shortage. The state's median age is 44.6 years (highest in the nation), driving demand for geriatric and long-term care nurses. Rural areas particularly struggle to attract and retain nurses.

Job Growth: The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 6% growth in registered nursing positions through 2032—faster than average for all occupations.

Salary Range: Maine RNs earn $60,000–$205,000 annually depending on degree level, specialty, and employer. Hospitals, long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and clinics all actively recruit new graduates.

Specialties in Demand: Critical care, emergency department, medical-surgical, and gerontology positions are particularly competitive, offering premium pay and sign-on bonuses.

Financial Aid for Nursing Students in Maine

Federal Aid

All Maine nursing programs participate in federal student aid (FAFSA). Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid at fafsa.gov to access:

Pell Grants (up to $7,395 for 2024–25, no repayment required)
Stafford Loans (federal student loans with fixed interest rates)
PLUS Loans (parent loans for undergraduate students)

State-Specific Programs

Maine Educational Assistance Program (MEAP): Need-based grants for Maine residents attending Maine schools. Eligibility varies by income and program.

Health Professions Loan Repayment Program: Some Maine hospitals and healthcare systems offer loan forgiveness for nurses who commit to multi-year employment.

Scholarships

National League for Nursing Scholarships: Competitive awards for nursing students
American Nurses Association Foundation: Career advancement scholarships
Hospital-based scholarships: Maine Medical Center, Eastern Maine Medical Center, and other large employers offer tuition assistance

Work-Study and Employer Tuition Assistance

Many Maine healthcare employers offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing nursing degrees. Consider working part-time in healthcare while studying to offset costs and gain clinical experience.

Next Steps: Compare Programs on GradeToGrad

You've learned about Maine's 13 nursing programs—now it's time to compare them side-by-side based on your priorities.

Visit GradeToGrad's nursing program search to:

Filter by tuition, acceptance rate, and location
Compare graduation rates and earning potential
Read student reviews and program details
Access application requirements and deadlines
Connect with admissions counselors

Action Steps

Take the TEAS or HESI exam if required by your target programs (most Maine programs require entrance exams)
Request program information from 3–5 schools matching your budget and goals
Schedule campus visits or virtual information sessions
Complete FAFSA by June 30 to maximize financial aid
Apply early (September–November for fall admission) to secure your spot

Maine's nursing programs offer affordable, accessible pathways to a rewarding career. Whether you choose a community college's quick entry or a university's comprehensive preparation, you'll graduate into a state with strong job demand and competitive salaries. Start your comparison today on GradeToGrad and take the first step toward your nursing career.