University of New England

UNE’s academic identity orbits around health professions—its medical, dental, physician assistant, and physical therapy programs are regional magnets. Undergraduces choose from 40+ bachelor’s degrees, with popular majors including:

• Health Professions (dominant, per U.S. News)
• Biological/Biomedical Sciences
• Parks/Recreation (likely tied to Maine’s outdoor culture)

Small classes and accessible professors—many Fulbright scholars or active researchers—define the experience. One 5-year part-time student praised the 'excellent support systems' and robust online platforms for hybrid learners.

Life at UNE’s Biddeford campus (41 acres, 10 minutes from Portland) skews residential and cozy—68% live on campus, and 92% report feeling 'extremely safe.' Descriptions like 'caring and inclusive culture where no one slips through the cracks' suggest a deliberately nurturing environment. The coastal location means ocean views and easy access to Portland’s food and music scene, while the suburban setting keeps undergrad life self-contained. Expect hiking clubs, not Greek life.

UNE’s 61% graduation rate lands it in the top 45% nationally, outperforming many peers with similar admissions profiles. Early-career alumni earn ~$41K annually—middling but expected given the mix of high-earning health grads and lower-paying liberal arts degrees. The school touts 'high graduate employment rates' and 'impressive licensure exam pass rates,' particularly in clinical fields, and recently earned national recognition for student success metrics.

At $66,410 total cost, UNE isn’t cheap—but 70% of students receive financial aid, slashing the average net price?Net priceWhat a family actually pays after grants and scholarships are subtracted from the sticker price — usually far less than the published cost. to $38,675. The aid package average is $31,722, suggesting substantial grant support. A $1,040/semester general service fee kicks in at 7+ credits. Prospective students should use UNE’s Net Price Calculator (the school warns estimates aren’t binding) to gauge real costs.

UNE delivers a goldilocks formula: the rigor of a health-professional school (with direct pipelines to its own grad programs) paired with the undergrad vibe of a small New England college. Its test-blind policy and 91.6% acceptance rate make it accessible, while clinical program reputations attract ambitious students. The coastal Maine setting—close enough to Portland for culture, far enough for starry nights—is icing on the lobster roll.