Public liberal arts university in rural Maine offering personalized, affordable education with flexible online options.
UMPI offers 22 baccalaureate degree programs with 18 concentration options, 7 associate degree programs, 2 master's degrees, 40 minors, and 5 certificate programs. The institution emphasizes hands-on, career-focused education with faculty-led research opportunities and service learning projects. In 2018, UMPI adopted a proficiency-based model for certain programs and allows students to retake material to ensure passing grades. A $2.25 million grant in 2019 expanded offerings in computer science and health administration. The YourPace program offers self-paced online bachelor's and master's degrees, with the Masters in Organizational Leadership launched in 2020.
The 150-acre campus sits in Presque Isle, surrounded by rolling hills and potato fields of northern Maine, offering access to outdoor recreation and the Northern Maine Woods. UMPI hosts the Northern Maine Museum of Science in Folsom Hall. The university features 12 varsity NCAA Division III sports (Owls mascot, blue and gold colors), intramural programs, and ice hockey club. Greek life includes chapters of Kappa Delta Phi fraternity and sorority, plus Phi Eta Sigma honor society. Fall 2023 demographics show 60% White, 20% Hispanic, 10% Black, 10% international students; 43% low-income, 57% affluent.
UMPI accepts applications through ApplyMaine or Common App for traditional students, with separate pathways for YourPace (competency-based) undergraduates and graduates. First-time students must provide official high school transcripts; transfer students need transcripts from all prior institutions. International students from English-speaking countries (Canada, UK, Australia, etc.) may require English proficiency documentation. Teacher certification applicants submit UMaine System Application, college transcripts, and two letters of recommendation. YourPace applications are streamlined to one step.
UMPI pioneered sustainability efforts in Maine higher education. In 2009, it installed a 600-kilowatt wind turbine (first in state for colleges), generating ~1 million kWh annually and saving $100,000+ in electricity costs. By November 2014, the university completed fossil fuel divestment, installing a 999-panel solar array on Folsom and Pullen Halls, plus biomass boiler and heat pump technology. The institution has been recognized by The Great Colleges to Work For program for its work environment.