University of Southern Maine
The Vibe Check
The University of Southern Maine offers a gritty, authentic urban campus experience where the line between classroom and community blurs. Students feel a strong sense of independence and resilience, navigating a New England city that rewards self-starters. It feels less like a sheltered college bubble and more like a launchpad into real-world New England life.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
SAT Score Range
ACT Score Range
Admissions Tips
Source: US Department of Education College Scorecard
Can I Get In?
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⚠️ This is a rough estimate based on published admissions data. Actual decisions depend on essays, recommendations, extracurriculars, and holistic review.
Academics & Majors
USM provides a practical, career-focused education with standout programs in Health Professions, Business, and Social Sciences. Class sizes are manageable, fostering direct interaction with professors who often have real-world experience. Research opportunities are accessible, particularly through partnerships with Portland's growing healthcare and tech sectors.
Popular Majors
Percentage of degrees awarded by program area ??? Source: US Dept of Education
By The Numbers
Return on Investment
Annual Tuition vs. Median Alumni Salary (10 Years Out)
Student Diversity
Racial & Ethnic Composition of Student Body
Financial Aid & Cost
Source: IPEDS / US Department of Education
Life in Portland
Portland is a vibrant, walkable city known for its award-winning food scene, craft breweries, and historic waterfront. Students spend weekends exploring the Old Port's cobblestone streets, catching shows at local venues, or hiking and skiing in the nearby White Mountains. The city's creative energy provides a stark, refreshing contrast to traditional college towns.
Local Rent Check
Reality Check
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Post-Grad Monthly Payment
Impact on Est. Salary ($49,958):
0.0% of net income
Safety Check
The campus is located in an urban setting, so standard city awareness is necessary, though the campus itself is generally considered safe with active security services. Portland is one of the safer small cities in the Northeast, but students should remain vigilant, especially at night in downtown areas.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✓ Location in Portland, ME, offers immediate access to internships and a vibrant job market.
- ✓ Significantly lower tuition costs for Maine residents compared to regional alternatives.
- ✓ Strong programs in high-demand fields like Health Professions and Business.
Cons
- ✗ Graduation and retention rates are lower than the national average, suggesting potential challenges with student completion.
- ✗ Urban setting means campus life is less centralized and traditional compared to residential colleges.
- ✗ Winter weather can be harsh, impacting student life and travel for several months.
Notable Alumni
Frequently Asked Questions
USM is known for its strong professional programs, particularly in Health Professions, Business, and Social Sciences. It serves as a primary educational hub for the state of Maine, offering accessible urban education in the state's economic center of Portland.
No, it is not particularly hard to get into. The acceptance rate is 79.31%, making it an accessible option for many applicants. The average SAT score is 1130, and admissions are considered holistic, looking beyond just test scores.
Campus life is integrated into the city of Portland, offering an urban experience rather than a traditional residential college feel. Students enjoy exploring the Old Port, accessing local arts and culture, and participating in a variety of student clubs, though the commuter presence can make the social scene more dispersed.
For in-state students, USM represents a strong financial value with a low net price and solid mid-career earnings. The proximity to Portland's job market enhances ROI, though out-of-state students must evaluate the higher tuition against potential earnings carefully.
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Calculated based on 10-year ROI, graduation rate, retention, and selectivity.
University Facts
- Founded N/A
- Type Public
- Setting Urban
- Undergrad 6,977
- In-State Tuition $10,920
- Out-of-State $27,104
- Zip Code 04103
Gender Ratio
The Money Talk
With an average net price of $11,729 and in-state tuition under $11,000, USM offers a high-value education, particularly for Maine residents. The 10-year median earnings of $49,958 are competitive for a public university, suggesting a solid return on investment for in-state students. However, out-of-state students should carefully weigh the $27,104 tuition against potential earnings to ensure the financial ROI makes sense compared to options in their home state.
📅 Typical Deadlines
Dates shown are typical US university deadlines. Always verify with the school.