| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
| Course Level: | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Course Program: | Art & Humanities | |
| Course Duration: | 4 Years | |
| Course Language: | English | |
| Required Degree | Class 12th | |
The University of Southern Maine (USM) is a public university located in Maine, USA. It is known for its affordable tuition, strong academic programs, and career-focused education. USM offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across multiple campuses.
Location: Portland, Gorham, and Lewiston, Maine, USA
Type: Public University
Student Population: ~8,000 students
Acceptance Rate: ~88% (moderately selective)
Programs: 50+ undergraduate and graduate programs
Known For: Business, Engineering, Nursing, Social Work, and Education
Athletics: NCAA Division III (Huskies)
USM has three campuses in Maine:
Portland Campus – Urban setting, main academic hub, and home to business and law programs.
Gorham Campus – Traditional college campus with residence halls and athletic facilities.
Lewiston-Auburn Campus – Focuses on healthcare and professional studies.
Business Administration
Computer Science
Engineering (Electrical, Mechanical, Cybersecurity, etc.)
Nursing & Healthcare Sciences
Psychology
Education & Teaching
Social Work
Environmental Science
MBA (Master of Business Administration)
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Nursing (MSN, DNP)
Public Health (MPH)
Education & Leadership
Undergraduate Tuition (Per Year):
In-State Students: ~$9,500
Out-of-State Students: ~$24,000
Graduate Tuition (Per Year):
In-State: ~$8,500
Out-of-State: ~$22,000
Financial Aid & Scholarships: Available for both domestic and international students.
60+ student clubs and organizations
On-campus housing available in Gorham (Portland is mainly commuter-based)
Internship & Career Services to connect students with local industries
Athletics & Recreation: NCAA Division III teams (Huskies), fitness centers, and outdoor activities
Acceptance Rate: ~88% (moderately competitive)
Application Deadline: Rolling Admissions (Apply Anytime)
English Proficiency (International Students):
TOEFL: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
College of Science, Technology, and Health
Biology
Chemistry
Computer Science
Cybersecurity
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Environmental Science
Exercise Science
Information Technology
Mechanical Engineering
Nursing (BSN)
Public Health
College of Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences
Art & Design
Communication
Criminology
English
History
Music Performance
Political Science
Psychology
Sociology
Theatre
School of Business
Accounting
Business Administration (Management, Marketing, Finance)
Economics
Sport Management
School of Education and Human Development
Elementary Education
Secondary Education
Special Education
Social Work
College of Science, Technology, and Health
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
Occupational Therapy (MOT)
Athletic Training (MSAT)
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP)
School of Business
Master of Business Administration (MBA)
Finance and Risk Management (MS)
School of Education & Human Development
Master of Education (M.Ed.)
Special Education (M.Ed.)
School Psychology (Ed.S.)
Other Notable Graduate Programs
Master of Social Work (MSW)
Leadership Studies (M.A.)
Creative Writing (MFA)
Course Program Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2024-25) |
|---|---|---|
|
Accounting |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Biology |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Business Administration |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Chemistry |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Communication |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Computer Science |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Cybersecurity |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Criminology |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Economics |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Electrical and Computer Engineering |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Elementary Education |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
English |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Environmental Science |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Exercise Science |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
History |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Information Technology |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Marketing |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Mechanical Engineering |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Music Performance |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Nursing (BSN) |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Political Science |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Psychology |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Public Health |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Secondary Education |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Social Work |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Sociology |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Sport Management |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
|
Theatre |
4 years |
In-State: $9,500 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2024-25) |
|---|---|---|
|
Master of Business Administration (MBA) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Social Work (MSW) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Occupational Therapy (MOT) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Science in Cybersecurity |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Science in Education (M.Ed.) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Science in Counseling |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Public Health (MPH) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Science in Leadership Studies |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing (MFA) |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Arts in Music Performance |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Science in Public Policy & Management |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Science in Data Science |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Science in Finance & Risk Management |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Master of Arts in History |
2 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
Course Name |
Duration |
Tuition Fees Per Year (USD) (2024-25) |
|---|---|---|
|
Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) |
3-4 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
PhD in Public Policy with a Focus on Educational Leadership & Policy |
3-5 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
|
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership |
3-5 years |
In-State: $8,500 |
Affordable Tuition – Lower costs compared to private universities in the U.S.
Scholarships for International Students – Merit-based awards available.
STEM & Career-Focused Programs – Business, Nursing, Cybersecurity, Engineering, and more.
Location Advantage – Portland is a growing economic hub with job opportunities.
Diverse & Inclusive Community – Students from all over the world.
Internships & Work Opportunities – Career services and Optional Practical Training (OPT).
1. Application Portal:
Apply through the Common Application or USM’s online application portal.
2. Application Requirements:
Completed Application Form
Official High School or College Transcripts (translated into English if necessary)
English Proficiency Test Scores:
TOEFL iBT: 79+
IELTS: 6.5+
Duolingo English Test: 105+
PTE Academic: 53+
Waivers available if the student has studied in an English-speaking institution.
Personal Statement / Essay (Optional but recommended)
Letters of Recommendation (Optional but recommended)
Application Deadlines:
Fall Semester (August Start): Rolling Admissions (Apply by June for best consideration)
Spring Semester (January Start): Rolling Admissions (Apply by November)
Step 1: Choose an Application Method
International students can apply through:
Common Application (Recommended)
USM Online Application Portal
Application Deadlines:
Fall Semester (August Start): Rolling admissions (Apply by June for best consideration)
Spring Semester (January Start): Rolling admissions (Apply by November)
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
Completed Application Form
Official High School Transcripts (translated into English if necessary)
English Proficiency Test Scores (if applicable):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
PTE Academic: Minimum 53
Waiver available if English is the primary language of instruction
Personal Statement / Essay (Optional but recommended)
Letters of Recommendation (Optional but recommended)
Step 3: Submit SAT/ACT Scores (Optional)
USM is test-optional, so SAT/ACT scores are not required but can strengthen your application.
Step 4: Pay the Application Fee
Application Fee: $50 (May be waived for eligible students)
Step 5: Financial Aid & Scholarship Application
USM International Merit Scholarships are automatically considered during admission.
No separate scholarship application is required.
Step 6: Admission Decision & Visa Process
Admission decisions are typically released within 2-4 weeks.
If accepted, you will receive the I-20 Form for the F-1 Student Visa application.
Apply for the student visa (F-1) at the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Step 1: Choose a Graduate Program & Apply
Applications can be submitted via the USM Graduate Application Portal.
Some programs may have specific deadlines.
Application Deadlines (Varies by Program):
Fall Intake: Apply by June 1 (International students)
Spring Intake: Apply by November 1 (International students)
Step 2: Submit Required Documents
Completed Graduate Application Form
Bachelor’s Degree Transcript (Translated into English if necessary)
English Proficiency Test Scores (if applicable):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
PTE Academic: Minimum 53
Statement of Purpose / Personal Essay
Letters of Recommendation (2-3) (Varies by program)
Resume or CV (For some programs like MBA, Public Health, etc.)
GRE/GMAT Scores (Only if required) – Many programs are test-optional.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
Graduate Application Fee: $65
Step 4: Financial Aid & Scholarships
Graduate students can apply for assistantships and scholarships.
Some programs offer tuition waivers for research or teaching assistants.
Step 5: Admission Decision & Visa Process
Admission decisions are typically released within 4-6 weeks.
Once admitted, you will receive an I-20 Form to apply for your F-1 student visa.
USM offers two main intake seasons for most undergraduate and graduate programs:
Fall Intake (August Start) – Main intake; most programs accept applications.
Application Deadline (International Students): June 1 (Recommended)
Spring Intake (January Start) – Limited programs available.
Application Deadline (International Students): November 1
Rolling Admissions:
USM follows a rolling admissions policy, meaning applications are accepted year-round.
However, international students should apply early to allow time for visa processing.
Academic Requirements:
High school diploma or equivalent.
Strong academic performance in relevant subjects (Math, Science, English, etc.).
Minimum GPA of 2.5 on a 4.0 scale (higher GPA improves chances).
English Proficiency Requirements (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
PTE Academic: Minimum 53
Waivers available for students from English-speaking countries or those who studied in English for 4+ years.
Standardized Test Scores (Optional):
SAT/ACT not required but can be submitted to strengthen the application.
Additional Documents:
High school transcripts (translated if necessary).
Personal statement (optional but recommended).
Letters of recommendation (optional but recommended).
Academic Requirements:
A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution.
Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale (some programs may accept lower GPAs with additional requirements).
English Proficiency Requirements (For International Students):
TOEFL iBT: Minimum 79
IELTS: Minimum 6.5
Duolingo English Test: Minimum 105
PTE Academic: Minimum 53
Additional Documents (Varies by Program):
Statement of Purpose (SOP)/Personal Essay
Letters of Recommendation (2-3)
Resume or CV (For MBA, Public Health, and other professional programs)
GRE/GMAT Scores (Only if required) – Many programs are test-optional
Graduate Assistantships & Funding:
Eligible students can apply for research or teaching assistantships, which provide tuition waivers and stipends.
Scholarship Name |
Eligibility Criteria |
Award Amount (Per Year in USD) |
Application Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
USM International Merit Scholarship |
High academic performance (GPA 3.0+) |
$3,000 – $12,000 |
Automatic consideration upon admission |
|
Honors Program Scholarship |
Admitted to the USM Honors Program |
Up to $5,000 |
Automatic consideration |
|
Osher Scholarship |
Financial need & strong academic background |
N/A |
Requires separate application |
|
Promise Scholarship |
First-generation, low-income students |
Covers full tuition |
Separate application required |
Note: No separate application is needed for most merit-based scholarships—students are automatically considered upon admission.
Scholarship / Assistantship |
Eligibility |
Award Amount (Per Year in USD) |
Application Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Graduate Assistantships (GA) |
Available for research or teaching roles |
Tuition waiver + stipend |
Apply through the department |
|
Muskie School Graduate Scholarships |
Public Policy & Management students |
N/A |
Automatic consideration |
|
Graduate Merit Scholarships |
High academic achievers (GPA 3.5+) |
Up to $5,000 |
Automatic consideration |
|
Nursing & Health Sciences Grants |
Students in Nursing, Public Health, and Healthcare programs |
N/A |
Apply through the program |
Note: Many graduate scholarships require students to apply for assistantships or departmental funding separately.
Accommodation Type |
Campus Location |
Features |
Cost Per Year (USD) (2024-25) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Traditional Residence Halls |
Gorham Campus |
Shared rooms, common bathrooms, lounges |
$6,600 – $7,500 |
|
Suite-Style Housing |
Gorham Campus |
Private/shared bedrooms, shared lounge & bathroom |
$8,000 – $9,500 |
|
Apartments (Upperclassmen Only) |
Gorham Campus |
Fully furnished, kitchen, private bathrooms |
$9,500 – $10,500 |
|
Honors Housing |
Gorham Campus |
Exclusive to honors students, quieter environment |
$8,000 – $9,000 |
|
Graduate Student Housing |
Portland Campus |
Private/single rooms, shared facilities |
$7,500 – $10,000 |
USM has a diverse student body, including international students from 50+ countries. The university hosts various cultural festivals, social events, and student-led initiatives to create an engaging campus experience.
Over 60 student clubs & organizations, including academic, cultural, sports, and social groups.
Annual events and traditions, such as International Student Day, Huskies Homecoming, and Winter Carnival.
Student government & leadership opportunities, allowing students to get involved in campus decision-making.
Most first-year students live on campus in Gorham, while upperclassmen and graduate students often live off-campus.
Themed housing options include Honors Housing, Wellness Living, and Leadership Communities.
Social lounges, study spaces, and game rooms provide a lively residential experience.
USM’s athletics teams, the Huskies, compete in NCAA Division III. The university has 16 varsity sports teams in sports like basketball, soccer, baseball, track & field, and ice hockey.
For non-athletes:
Club & intramural sports, including ultimate frisbee, rugby, and eSports.
Modern fitness centers with gyms, swimming pools, and recreational spaces.
Outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and kayaking in scenic Maine locations.
USM has a thriving arts scene with programs in music, theater, and visual arts.
The USM School of Music hosts concerts, operas, and jazz performances.
Theater productions take place at the Russell Hall and Hannaford Hall theaters.
Art galleries showcase student and professional exhibitions throughout the year.
USM has a strong focus on career development, offering students internships, networking events, and job placement assistance.
Career & Employment Hub connects students with local businesses, startups, and industries in Maine.
Internships available in finance, healthcare, technology, and social services.
Resume workshops, interview training, and alumni networking events help students build professional skills.
USM’s location in Maine offers plenty of outdoor adventure opportunities, such as:
Skiing & snowboarding in nearby resorts.
Beach trips & coastal kayaking during the summer.
Hiking & camping in Maine’s scenic state parks.
Weekend trips to Boston and New York City, easily accessible from Portland.
On-campus jobs available in dining halls, libraries, and administrative offices.
International students (F-1 visa) can work up to 20 hours/week on campus.
Internship & research assistantship opportunities for graduate students.
Career Outcomes & Job Placement Rates
95% of USM graduates are employed, in graduate school, or engaged in professional experiences within six months of graduation.
Internship-to-job conversion rate is high, with many students receiving full-time job offers after their internships.
STEM, Business, Healthcare, and Education graduates have the highest job placement rates.
Top Employers Hiring USM Graduates
USM has strong industry connections, and its graduates work at top companies, organizations, and government agencies, including:
Technology & Engineering
IBM
IDEXX Laboratories
Tyler Technologies
WEX Inc.
Finance & Business
TD Bank
Unum
Liberty Mutual
MaineHealth
Healthcare & Biomedical Sciences
Maine Medical Center
Northern Light Health
Massachusetts General Hospital
Harvard Medical School (Research Positions)
Education & Public Service
Portland Public Schools
U.S. Department of Education
State of Maine Government
Media & Communication
The Portland Press Herald
Maine Public Broadcasting
WMTW News 8
Internship & Career Services at USM
USM’s Career & Employment Hub helps students with:
Internship & Job Search Assistance – Connections with local and national employers.
Career Counseling & Resume Building – One-on-one career guidance.
Mock Interviews & Job Fairs – Students get hands-on experience before entering the workforce.
Industry Networking Events – Direct connections with Maine’s business and tech industry leaders.
Internship Opportunities
USM offers paid and unpaid internships through partnerships with local companies and government agencies.
Many students complete internships in Portland, Boston, and other major cities.
Healthcare, Business, and Engineering students have the highest internship placement rates.
Graduate School & Further Education
Many USM graduates go on to pursue master’s and doctoral degrees at top universities, including:
Harvard University
MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology)
Boston University
University of Southern Maine (USM Graduate Programs)
University of Maine
Popular graduate fields:
MBA & Business Management
Public Health & Nursing
Data Science & Cybersecurity
Law & Education
Average Salaries After Graduation
Average starting salary: $50,000 - $70,000 per year
Business & Finance roles: $65,000 - $80,000 per year
Technology & Engineering roles: $70,000 - $90,000 per year
Healthcare & Nursing roles: $60,000 - $85,000 per year
Education & Social Services roles: $45,000 - $60,000 per year
Note: Salaries vary based on industry, job location, and experience.
Work Opportunities for International Students
On-Campus Jobs: International students (F-1 visa) can work up to 20 hours per week on campus.
Internships & CPT (Curricular Practical Training): Available for students in STEM, Business, and Healthcare programs.
OPT (Optional Practical Training): International students can work in the U.S. for 12-36 months after graduation (for STEM students).
The University of Southern Maine (USM) has a moderate acceptance rate, making it accessible to a wide range of students.
Overall Acceptance Rate: 88% (Moderately Selective)
Undergraduate Acceptance Rate: 90%
Graduate Acceptance Rate: 70-80% (Varies by program)
Key Factors Affecting Admission:
Academic Performance – Minimum GPA of 2.5 for undergraduates and 3.0 for graduate programs.
English Proficiency – TOEFL (79+), IELTS (6.5+), or Duolingo (105+) for international students.
Optional SAT/ACT Scores – Not required but may strengthen the application.
Strong Personal Statement & Recommendations – Recommended for competitive programs.
Portland Campus (Urban & Career-Focused)
Location: Portland, Maine
Main Campus – Houses business, law, and public service programs.
Close to Maine’s Business & Tech Hub – Ideal for internships and job opportunities.
City Life: Located in downtown Portland, near restaurants, businesses, and cultural attractions.
Gorham Campus (Traditional & Residential)
Location: Gorham, Maine (20 minutes from Portland)
Main Residential Campus – Most undergraduate students live here.
Home to Arts, Music, and Athletics Facilities – Includes performing arts centers and sports complexes.
Scenic Campus: Surrounded by green spaces and outdoor activities.
Lewiston-Auburn Campus (Healthcare & Professional Studies)
Location: Lewiston, Maine (45 minutes from Portland)
Focus on Nursing, Health Sciences & Professional Development.
Small & Community-Oriented Campus with specialized programs.
