Although the "Pine Tree State" has its share of cold winters, the cold temperatures do little to diminish the raw natural beauty that symbolizes Maine, and Maine is acknowledged as one of the most healthful, beautiful and interesting places in the nation. For such a small state, Maine manages to pack in an extraordinary number of hiking trails, camping spots, and fishing holes. Not surprisingly, many students from Maine public colleges and universities double as outdoor adventurers as well. A few years at one of the state's many prestigious college programs will transform you into a highly skilled backpacker in addition to whatever other disciplines you are pursuing whether it be arts, communications, technology management, veterinary technology or other.
The State of Maine is home to a moderate amount of public and private colleges and universities. The state itself is small both in terms of size and population, but maintains a relatively large public university system. The flagship campus of the University of Maine, the state's largest institution, is in Orono, but there are also campuses in Farmington, Machias, Presque Isle, Fort Kent and the state capital of Augusta.
Maine has no dedicated department of higher education that oversees its colleges and universities. Instead, its Department of Education works to manage the learning progression from pre-kindergarten to grade 16. Therefore, the University of Maine System and the Maine Community College System's respective board of trustees are responsible for creating policies and procedures and performing administrative oversight.
Of the colleges and universities in Maine, the most popular is the University of Maine. Maine Maritime Academy is the most expensive public school in Maine with an in-state.
The University of Maine (UMaine) is the largest university in the state, and its flagship campus is located in Orono, making it the only Land Grant University in the country located on an island.
In this small state, online colleges and distance learning programs are still in abundance for those seeking to earn their online college degrees. Maine ranks 24th out of the 50 states in percentage of people with a bachelor's degree. If you are seeking continuing education, then what better way to work and go to school at the same time!