Top Maine Nursing Schools and Programs

Top Maine Nursing Schools and Programs

Maine has a rich history of offering lower in-state and out-of-state tuition for colleges and universities compared to other New England states. Students seeking both traditional and online nursing programs in Maine can benefit from cost savings, although it’s essential to be aware of the varying licensure requirements across states. This article delves into the best nursing schools and programs in Maine, shedding light on the increasing demand for rural nurses to enhance healthcare accessibility. Continue reading for comprehensive information on the top nursing schools in Maine, the process of obtaining a Maine nursing license, and the typical salary ranges in the field.

Exploring Maine’s Nursing Landscape

Maine boasts a favorable environment for nursing education, with options ranging from associate degrees in nursing (ADN) to bachelor of science in nursing (BSN) and master of science in nursing (MSN) degrees. The state’s need for healthcare professionals, especially in rural areas, emphasizes the significance of choosing a nursing program aligned with individual backgrounds and career aspirations.

Methodology for School Rankings: To aid in selecting the most suitable nursing program, our rankings rely on a data-driven methodology. We consider key metrics such as academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings. This approach aims to streamline the decision-making process for prospective nursing students, providing them with the essential information needed to make informed choices.

Georgia Nursing Schools and Programs of 2024 & 2025

Top Nursing Schools and Programs in Maine

Exploring Online MSN Programs

For those interested in pursuing online Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) programs, it is crucial to gather details on start dates, credit transfer policies, financial aid availability, and other relevant factors. Contacting the universities listed below can offer insights into these aspects.

The Best Nursing Schools in Maine

Choosing the right nursing program in Maine involves aligning it with your educational background and career objectives. While associate degree in nursing (ADN) programs offer a quicker route to entry-level nursing positions, obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) or Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) degree holds greater value for those aspiring to become nurse practitioners (NPs) later in their careers.

Our Methodology: Our rankings adopt a data-driven methodology to identify the best nursing schools in Maine, making it easier for students to find programs that suit their needs. We focus on metrics deemed most crucial to students, including academic quality, affordability, reputation, and program offerings.

#1 University of New England

Biddeford, ME
4 years
Online + Campus

The University of New England stands out as a leading institution with its Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. Since 2013, the program has consistently achieved National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rates above the national average. Spanning both Biddeford and Portland locations, the program covers diverse topics such as nurse leadership, mental health nursing, and medical-surgical nursing.

Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus: Biddeford and Portland, Maine
Type: Private
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $39,510 per year
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate
Minimum Time Commitment: Four years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.8% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $63,810 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$37,390
Out-of-state
$37,390
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$27,466
Out-of-state
$27,466
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
87%
Students Enrolled
7,208
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
48%
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#2 Kennebec Valley Community College

Fairfield, ME
2 years
Online + Campus

Kennebec Valley Community College offers a comprehensive Associate of Science degree in Nursing (ADN) that prepares students for entry-level nursing positions. Covering essential topics such as nursing across the lifespan, transition into nursing practice for the ADN, and foundations of nursing, the program equips graduates with the conceptual-thinking skills needed for holistic care in various healthcare settings.

Program: Associate of Science degree in Nursing
Campus: Fairfield, Maine
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $96 per credit for Maine residents; $192 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate
Minimum Time Commitment: Two years
On-Campus Requirements: No
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.4% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $54,250 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,880
Out-of-state
$5,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
64%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,297
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
63%
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#3 Central Maine Community College

Auburn, ME
2 years
Online + Campus

Central Maine Community College offers a robust 68-credit Associate of Science degree in Nursing program. Available at CMCC’s Auburn or Damariscotta locations, the program covers fundamental topics such as foundations of nursing, nursing across the lifespan, and introduction to psychology. Graduates are well-prepared for employment in hospitals, extended care facilities, clinics, psychiatric facilities, and substance misuse facilities.

Program: Associate of Science degree in Nursing
Campus: Auburn and Damariscotta, Maine
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $2,880 per year for Maine residents; $4,320 per year for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate
Minimum Time Commitment: Two years
On-Campus Requirements: No
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 91.7% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $50,020 for associate graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$2,880
Out-of-state
$5,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
52%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
3,115
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
74%
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#4 University of Southern Maine

The University of Southern Maine, located in Portland, offers a comprehensive 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Nursing program tailored to accommodate working learners. The program, which spans 4 years, follows a cohort model and places a strong emphasis on fostering powerful community relationships among students. Key course topics include the intermediate nursing skills lab, clinically applied genetics, and nursing arts and science.

Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus: Portland, Maine
Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $288 per credit hour for Maine residents; $788 per credit hour for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate; minimum 3.25 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 15 months
On-Campus Requirements: No
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 85.8% first-time pass rate
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $57,420 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $8,064
Out-of-state: $21,532
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $7,776
Out-of-state: $21,348
Retention Rate: 70%
Admission Rate: 88%
Students Enrolled: 8,022
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 88%
Accreditation: Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#5 Eastern Maine Community College

Eastern Maine Community College in Bangor offers an exceptional Associate Degree in Nursing program, recognized among the best in Maine. Known for its small class sizes, high National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX) pass rates, and affordability, this program spans 2 years and consists of 70 credits. Core course topics encompass developmental psychology, foundations of nursing, and professional issues.

Program: Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus: Bangor, Maine
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing
Tuition: $96 per credit for Maine residents; $192 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate
Minimum Time Commitment: One year
On-Campus Requirements: No
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 93.9% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $2,880
Out-of-state: $5,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: Not provided
Out-of-state: Not provided
Retention Rate: 51%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 2,042
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 34%
Accreditation: Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#6 University of Maine

The University of Maine, located in Orono, boasts one of the finest nursing schools in Maine, offering a Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner program designed for working learners. This program, spanning 4 years, combines online and in-person coursework totaling 49-51 credits. Key course topics include nursing research, advanced health assessment, and families in health and illness.

Program: Master of Science in Nursing – Family Nurse Practitioner
Campus: Orono, Maine
Type: Public
Accreditations: Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education
Tuition: $541 per credit for Maine residents; $1,623 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: Bachelor’s in nursing; registered nurse license; minimum 3.0 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: 2.5 years
On-Campus Requirements: No
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: 97.3% first-time pass rate
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $9,240
Out-of-state: $30,030
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $8,298
Out-of-state: $27,054
Retention Rate: 78%
Admission Rate: 92%
Students Enrolled: 11,741
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 93%
Accreditation: Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#7 University of Maine at Augusta

The University of Maine at Augusta offers a comprehensive 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Nursing program, requiring full-time enrollment and blending online and in-classroom learning. Based in Augusta, this program spans 4 years and covers crucial topics such as caring for aging adults, nursing research, and pharmacology. The school provides clinical placement assistance, and learning occurs through a combination of community partners and the UMA Nursing Resources Laboratory.

Program: Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus: Augusta, Maine
Type: Public
Accreditations: Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing; New England Commission on Higher Education
Tuition: $245 per credit for Maine residents; $607 per credit for out-of-state students
Admission Requirements: High school diploma or GED certificate; minimum 3.0 GPA
Minimum Time Commitment: Four years
On-Campus Requirements: Yes
School NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: N/A
Median Earnings Two Years After Graduation: $

53,360 for bachelor’s graduates, according to College Scorecard
Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state: $7,350
Out-of-state: $17,760
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state: $7,776
Out-of-state: $9,720
Retention Rate: 62%
Admission Rate: Not provided
Students Enrolled: 4,202
Institution Type: Public
Percent Online Enrollment: 86%
Accreditation: Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

How to Choose a Nursing Program in Maine

Despite the limited number of nursing schools in Maine, there are diverse options available for prospective students. When deciding on a program, it’s essential to consider the following factors:

– Costs: Evaluate tuition fees and explore financial aid options for nurses.

– NCLEX-RN Pass Rate: Assess the National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) pass rate as an indicator of the school’s preparation.

– Clinical Placement and Assistance: Investigate the support provided for clinical placements during the program.

– Program Curriculum: Review the curriculum to ensure it aligns with your educational and career goals.

– Program Size: Consider the size of the program, as it may impact the learning environment and individual attention.

– Logistics of Attending: Take into account the logistical aspects of attending the program, such as location and scheduling.

Accreditation is crucial for the program’s value, so only accredited nursing programs in Maine are included in this guide. Unaccredited programs may offer quicker or more affordable courses, but the resulting credits or degree may not be advantageous for employment or transferring to an accredited school.

Why Become a Nurse in Maine

Maine’s designation as a Nurse Licensure Compact (NLC) state allows graduates from nursing schools in Maine to apply for a multistate license valid in any of the 37 participating NLC states. For those aspiring to become nurse educators, Maine provides a generous loan repayment program for nursing school faculty, making it an attractive option.

The NCLEX-RN pass rate in Maine was 92.3% in 2019, surpassing the national pass rate of 88.2%. Besides the professional advantages, Maine’s scenic coastline, laid-back lifestyle, and outdoor recreation contribute to its appeal. The state also boasts one of the country’s lowest crime rates.

Salary and Job Outlook for Nurses in Maine

Maine’s higher cost of living, reflected in a 115 cost-of-living index compared to the national index of 100, is accompanied by an average annual RN salary of $71,040, compared to the national average of $80,010. Nurse practitioners (NPs) in Maine earn an average salary of $111,580, compared to the national average of $114,510.

The job outlook is promising, with a projected 6.5% growth in RN jobs and a 20.6% growth rate for NP jobs between 2018 and 2028. Attending nursing school in Maine can provide the advantage of building a close-knit local professional network.

Maine’s largely rural landscape, with three metropolitan areas, offers unique features, such as outdoor recreation and access to national parks. Bangor, known as the home of Stephen King, and Lewiston, with a higher proportion of French speakers, contribute to the state’s cultural diversity.

Highest-Paying Cities for Nurses in Maine

Top Paying Metropolitan Areas	Average Salary for RNs
Bangor, ME	$76,650
Portland — South Portland, ME	$72,360
Lewiston — Auburn, ME	$67,760

Source: BLS

Steps to Becoming a Nurse in Maine

To become a registered nurse (RN) in Maine, individuals need a nursing degree, a passing grade on the NCLEX, and a criminal background check for state nurse licensing. The application for a Maine nursing license is conducted online, as the state board of nursing does not accept paper applications.

RN Requirements

Earning an RN license in Maine requires graduation from an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program, passing the NCLEX-RN examination, and completing a criminal background check. Transferring between nursing programs requires spending at least one year at the initial school.

The application fee is $75, with additional costs of $52 for the criminal background check and $200 for the NCLEX-RN exam. License renewal is required every two years, with a minimum of 75 continuing education credits for nurses.

APRN Requirements

To become an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) in Maine, individuals must graduate from a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) or Doctor of Nursing Practice program, pass the relevant board certification, and hold an active RN license. The state board of nursing only accepts online applications, with an application fee of $100 and a $30 RN license verification fee. Proof of board certification and an official transcript must also be submitted.

Other requirements for new APRNs include two years of supervision under a physician or NP, along with recent credits or continuing education hours in pharmacology to apply for prescriptive authority.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nursing in Maine

1. Does Maine need nurses?

Yes, Maine is experiencing a nursing shortage, with a projected shortage of 3,200 nurses by 2025, according to a 2017 study from the Maine Department of Labor.

2. How long does it take to become a nurse in Maine?

It takes at least two years to earn an ADN, while a BSN degree typically takes four years to complete.

3. Is Maine a compact state for nursing?

Yes, Maine is an NLC state, allowing graduates from nursing programs in Maine to apply for a multistate license.

4. How do I get a Maine nursing license?

To obtain a Maine nursing license, individuals must graduate from a nursing program in Maine or another state with an ADN or a BSN degree, pass the NCLEX-RN examination, and undergo a criminal background check. The application is submitted online, accompanied by the application and criminal background check fees.