Online Master’s Degrees in Maine: Comparing Schools

Profiling Three Online Master’s Programs in Maine

Below, we highlight three accredited Maine universities known for providing accredited and trusted online master’s programs. Each offers a unique online learning structure. We’ll describe their approach to online education and then zoom in on one example master’s program for each, including key details like duration, format, cost, and admissions criteria.

Top Five Fields to Pursue as a Master’s Student

Certain graduate disciplines stand out in Maine due to strong job demand, high salary potential, local industry needs, and program availability. Below are five top fields for earning a master’s in Maine, each backed by state workforce trends and educational offerings:

1. Business Management

An MBA or related master’s in business is a top choice in Maine thanks to broad career applicability and leadership opportunities. Maine’s economy, from its growing small business sector to larger employers in finance and biotech, needs skilled managers. 

Demand for executive-level business leaders in Maine is projected to grow by over 100 jobs per year over the next decadeas an older generation retires. Earning an MBA can significantly boost your salary since the average MBA holder in Maine earns about $87,500 annually. This puts them at 44% higher than the state median income. 

Maine’s universities offer MBAs with specializations like accounting, analytics, and healthcare management, often available online. With Maine’s private colleges emphasizing advanced studies in business, and public institutions offering accredited programs, an MBA equips students with strategic thinking and leadership skills valued in every industry.

2. Nursing & Healthcare Professions

Healthcare is one of Maine’s largest and fastest-growing sectors. Maine has the oldest median age of any state and the highest share of residents over 65, driving demand for healthcare services. This makes advanced degrees in nursing and health fields highly valuable. At the same time, many healthcare workers are retiring; over 41% of Maine’s registered nurses are age 52 or older, signaling a looming workforce gap. 

A Master’s in Nursing Public Health (MPH), or healthcare administration can position graduates to fill critical roles in rural clinics, hospitals, and community health centers. These roles often come with strong salaries and job security. For example, family nurse practitioners in Maine not only earn high incomes but also help mitigate the primary care shortage in underserved areas. 

Given Maine’s focus on improving rural healthcare access, graduate programs like nurse practitioner, physician assistant studies, occupational therapy, and health informatics are top choices that align with state needs, all while providing you with a strong rate of return on investment (ROI).

3. Education & Teaching

Education consistently ranks among the top fields for advanced study in Maine due to ongoing teacher shortages and the push for educational improvement. Earning a Master’s in Education (MEd) can not only strengthen your classroom skills but is often required for professional teacher certification and administration roles. Maine school districts typically offer salary increases for teachers with a master’s, making the degree financially attractive and providing a good ROI. 

Key education specialties in demand in Maine include special education, literacy, and educational leadership. Additionally, many Maine educators pursue a master’s to become principals, curriculum coordinators, or higher-ed instructors. With local initiatives like the #TeachMaine Plan to boost teacher recruitment and retention, graduate education programs are both accessible and aligned with Maine’s credentialing requirements. 

4. Information Technology & Cybersecurity

The technology field, a broad field of expertise that includes computer science, data analytics, and cybersecurity, is emerging as a top choice for Maine students as the state’s digital economy expands. While Maine’s tech sector is smaller than some states’, it’s growing steadily. Tech occupations in Maine are projected to grow around 5.7% by 2026, and tech is increasingly vital in industries like biotech, finance, and forest products. 

Cybersecurity in particular has seen surging demand. Indeed, Maine needs to increase its cybersecurity workforce by 63% just to fill current openings according to a 2023 report. Earning a master’s in cybersecurity, information systems, or computer science can open doors to high-paying roles such as information security analyst, information technology (IT) manager, or software developer. These roles often come with salaries well above Maine’s median. Plus, with many Maine employers adopting remote work and cloud technologies, advanced IT skills are at a premium.

5. Public Administration & Social Services (Social Work/Counseling)

Maine’s communities benefit greatly from professionals with advanced degrees in public service fields, notably public administration, social work, and counseling. A master’s in these disciplines prepares graduates to tackle pressing social issues in the state, from rural poverty to the opioid crisis. Demand is robust for professionals in this field. For example, Maine has lost half its licensed psychiatrists in five years, heightening the need for licensed counselors and clinical social workers. 

An MSWor Master of Arts (MA) in Counseling enables you to become a licensed therapist, addiction counselor, or social service administrator. These roles are increasingly critical in both urban and rural Maine. 

Furthermore, social workers in Maine earn a solid average wage of $64,360 per year and enjoy diverse employment options at organizations such as hospitals, schools, nonprofits, and government agencies. Likewise, a Master of Public Administration (MPA) or policy degree can lead to roles managing public programs or leading nonprofits, especially as Maine’s government agencies seek to innovate and replace retiring administrators.

Accreditation for Online Master’s Programs: Why It Matters

When choosing an online master’s in Maine, accreditation is a key quality marker. Accreditation means a school or program meets rigorous standards set by an external agency, ensuring that your degree will be respected by employers and other institutions. 

Maine’s colleges and universities are primarily accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), the regional accrediting body. Many programs additionally hold specialized accreditations. Business programs like UMaine’s MBA carry Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) accreditation,indicating top-tier business education. 

Nursing master’s programs often have Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) accreditation, ensuring they meet nursing education standards and licensure requirements. Education programs may be accredited by the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation, and social work programs carry Council on Social Work Education (CSWE) accreditation. 

These credentials matter because they signal that Maine’s online degrees adhere to the same standards as on-campus programs. Before enrolling in a program, you should verify both institutional accreditation and any program-specific accreditation.

Exploring Types of Online Master’s Programs in Maine

As you explore program options, you’ll find that online master’s programs in Maine aren’t one-size-fits-all — universities offer a variety of formats to suit different needs. Whether you want an intensive full-time experience or need the flexibility of part-time study, there’s an option for you. Some programs offer accelerated schedules or dual-degree pathways, and many have no-GRE admission policies to reduce barriers. Below is an overview of common program types and what to expect from each:

Full-Time Programs for Maine Grad Students

Full-time online master’s programs allow students to immerse themselves in graduate study and complete the degree quickly. As a full-time student, you can typically complete your graduate degree in one to two years. However, expect to take a heavier course load, typically three or more courses per term.

Full-time students often treat school as a job, devoting close to 40 hours each week to lectures, readings, and projects. The intensity also helps build camaraderie with classmates through group projects and discussions, allowing you to practice more online collaboration and team-building. However, balancing full-time coursework with employment can be challenging, so many students in full-time online programs either study exclusively or work only part-time. In Maine, full-time online programs often have multiple start dates per year, letting you begin when ready.

Examples of Maine’s Full-Time Online Programs:

• University of Southern Maine — MS in Cybersecurity
• University of Maine — MA in Interdisciplinary Studies

Part-Time Programs for Working Students

Part-time online master’s programs are tailored for working professionals and busy adults. You might take one course at a time or a lighter load each semester, extending the program length but making it manageable alongside a job. A typical part-time master’s could take you up to two and a half to four years, depending on pacing. Flexibility is the main benefit, as you can continue earning an income and balancing personal responsibilities while gradually advancing your education. 

Maine’s universities often offer the same courses in fall, spring, and summer, allowing part-time students to continuously progress. Part-time doesn’t mean less support; you’ll still engage with faculty and peers and have access to graduate mentorship. It’s important to stay disciplined with time management since deadlines still apply, but having fewer simultaneous courses means you can focus more deeply on each subject. 

Examples of Maine’s Part-Time Online Programs:

• Husson University — MSN, FNP Concentration
• Saint Joseph’s College of Maine — MBA in Leadership

No-GRE Programs for Accessibility

Many of Maine’s online master’s programs now waive the GRE/GMAT requirement, making admissions more accessible. Such “no-GRE” programs do not require standardized test scores for entry, focusing instead on your undergraduate GPA, professional experience, and other factors. This is great news if test-taking isn’t your strength or if you’re returning to school after a gap in your education. 

No-GRE policies are common in fields like nursing, education, social work, and certain MBAs. These programs recognize that work experience and academic history better predict success than a single exam. As a result, application requirements might emphasize essays, portfolios, or interviews more, so focusing on your admission essay and other application materials can be a wise decision. 

For the student, this means one less hurdle. However, keep in mind that “no GRE” doesn’t mean less competitive; you’ll still need to meet GPA or experience criteria.

Examples of No-GRE Online Programs:

• University of New England — Master of Public Health (MPH)
• Husson University — Online MBA

Accelerated Programs

Accelerated online master’s programs in Maine allow you to complete your degree faster than usual by compressing coursework or combining degrees. There are two main types: one-year accelerated master’s and combined four-plus-one programs. In a four-plus-one program, you start master’s courses during your senior undergrad year, which allows you to earn a bachelor’s and master’s in five years total. 

Accelerated formats use strategies like short seven-week course modules, year-round study (summer included), or heavier course loads, making them rigorous but efficient. Students save time and often tuition. Maine’s public universities offer some four-plus-one options, which are great if you’re an undergraduate student planning ahead. For those who already have a bachelor’s, one-year master’s programs let you dive in and finish by the next year. 

Examples of Accelerated Online Programs:

• University of Maine — Four-Plus-One Accelerated Master of Education in Special Education
• University of Southern Maine — Accelerated Online MS in Nursing Education

Master’s Programs in Maine: How Much Do They Cost?

The cost of an online master’s in Maine can vary widely by school and program but overall it tends to be competitive compared to out-of-state and on-campus alternatives. Students should consider both fixed costs (like tuition and fees) and variable costs (like books and technology fees). Tuition is usually charged per credit for online programs.

In Maine, public universities often offer in-state tuition rates to online students, and some (like UMaine’s MBA) charge a uniform rate for all students. Private colleges often have higher per-credit costs but sometimes include all fees in the rate. 

Online learning can reduce other expenses since you won’t incur relocation or daily commuting costs. Many online students keep working as well. Financial aid for master’s students applies to accredited online programs, so you can use federal loans, grants, and scholarships. Some employers in Maine also offer tuition assistance for online graduate study. Below is a snapshot of costs for three example programs:

FAQs from Maine’s Prospective Master’s Students

Q: Are online master’s degrees from Maine universities respected by employers?

A: As long as your program is accredited, employers will typically recognize an online master’s as equivalent to an on-campus one. Your diploma typically doesn’t specify “online.” Furthermore, many employers appreciate that online students juggle work and studies, a testament to your time management and dedication. 

Just be sure your school is regionally accredited by the NECHE, which all major Maine institutions are. This means your degree will be respected nationally. 

Q: Do I need to live in Maine to enroll in a Maine online master’s program?

A: Not at all! Maine’s online programs welcome out-of-state students, so you can usually reside anywhere. Since coursework is delivered online, you can participate from home. 

Typically, no residency is required, aside from possibly a short on-site orientation in rare cases. Many programs also offer single tuition rates for online students regardless of state. The University of Maine’s online MBA, for example, charges the same per-credit tuition to in-state and out-of-state students. 

If you do live in Maine, you might have access to local campus resources, but it’s not mandatory. As a remote learner, you can still build an online graduate support system through your program’s online resources and your peers. 

Q: Can I get financial aid for an online master’s program in Maine?

A: Yes, online master’s students are typically eligible for the same federal financial aid as on-campus students. You should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your loan and grant eligibility. Graduate students usually qualify for federal student loans. However, need-based grants are less common since most grants target undergrads. You may still find some specific programs or scholarships for grad students in certain fields, like education or nursing. 

Many Maine universities also offer graduate scholarships or assistantships. For example, UMaine’s MBA has scholarship opportunities and UNE often provides a discount for alumni returning for grad school. Additionally, your employer might offer tuition assistance or reimbursement, especially if the degree relates to your job. 

Before you enroll, be sure to inquire with your chosen school’s financial aid office and search local graduate scholarship databases. With a combination of loans, savings, and possible aid, you can find funding for your online Maine master’s degree.

Q: How do internships or clinical placements work for online programs?

A: Online programs that require internships, practicums, or clinical hours are very experienced in helping students complete them in their local areas. Typically, the university will have a placement coordinator who works with you to find an approved site in your community. 

For instance, online nurse practitioner students arrange clinical rotations with preceptors near where they live, and the school approves the facility and supervision plan. Education master’s students doing student teaching or practicum can usually do so at a nearby school. Social work online programs may set up local field internships in agencies close to the student. 

You might need to be proactive in identifying potential sites, but Maine schools have networks nationwide. Many programs require some documentation, which the school facilitates remotely. There may also be a virtual orientation or workshop to prepare you, such as Husson’s online FNP virtual clinical orientation session for new students. Throughout your internship, you’ll likely have online seminars or check-ins as part of your coursework to integrate theory with practice

Q: Will I ever need to visit the campus during my online master’s program?

A: In most cases, no. Most of Maine’s online master’s programs are designed to be completed fully at a distance. If a program is advertised as 100% online, you can earn the degree without setting foot on campus. 

That said, there are a few hybrid programs (often labeled “low-residency” or “blended”) that might require a short campus residency. For example, a low-residency executive MBA might have a one-week on-campus intensive for networking and presentations. These are the exception rather than the rule, however. The program listings will clearly state if any in-person component is required, and the vast majority of Maine’s online offerings have no on-campus requirement. All lectures, discussions, and even capstone presentations are handled via online platforms.