Online education has become a practical and widely accepted way to earn a degree, especially for people who don’t have the time or flexibility to attend classes in person. Instead of being tied to a classroom schedule, students can log in from home, work, or anywhere else, and complete assignments at times that fit their day. Many universities have adapted to this shift, offering full degree programs online without lowering academic standards.
In recent years, colleges across the U.S. have expanded their online offerings, and employers now treat accredited online degrees the same as traditional ones. The focus is more on the skills you gain and the institution you studied with, not whether you learned in a physical classroom.
Maine has followed this trend strongly. Several of the state’s universities have invested in well-structured online programs built for working adults, parents, part-time students, and anyone who needs flexibility. These programs cover areas like business, healthcare, education, technology, and more, with student support systems in place to make sure online learners don’t feel left out.
This article outlines the best online colleges in Maine, what makes their programs stand out, and what you can expect as an online student. The aim is to give you clear, useful information so you can choose a school that fits your goals and everyday life.
Best Online Colleges in Maine
1. Saint Joseph’s College of Maine (SJC Online)
Saint Joseph’s College of Maine brings its online programs to life with flexibility and support. You’ll find a mix of undergraduate and graduate degrees that you can pursue fully online in areas such as business administration, health administration, long-term care administration, nursing (including an RN-to-BSN track), psychology, accounting, theology, and social service professions.
The online platform is designed for busy adults, and the school emphasizes clear, transparent tuition and no hidden fees in some programs. For example, their theology and ministry programmes are fully online and built to serve working professionals and lay ministers.
The community value that the college holds means online students aren’t left alone; they still get faculty contact, student support services, and a sense of belonging, even if they’re studying from home.
2. University of Maine at Augusta (UMA Online)
At the University of Maine at Augusta, online study isn’t an add-on; it’s a major focus. UMA offers 41 degree programs, and of those, about 28 are fully online, with others available through a combination of online and video conference or hybrid formats.
Their delivery system uses a learning platform (Brightspace) and clearly defines online vs synchronous vs hybrid sessions, so you know from the start how your class will run. The curriculum spans associate, bachelor’s, post-baccalaureate, and certificate levels in areas such as business administration, CIA (computer information systems), cybersecurity, justice studies, liberal studies, and more.
UMA also shows strong recognition in national rankings for its online bachelor’s programs, indicating that the online experience is treated with seriousness and quality.
3. University of Southern Maine (USM Online)
The University of Southern Maine offers a full roster of online options designed for adults, working professionals, and people needing flexible schedules. Their online portfolio includes both undergraduate and graduate degrees, many of which can be completed 100% online.
One undergraduate example: degrees in business analytics, communication, operations & supply chain management, liberal studies, and social/behavioural sciences are available fully online. The experience is built so that you can balance your life and study. Each course includes video lectures, reading, discussion boards, and a full syllabus from day one, so you know what needs to be done and when.
Faculty who teach online are the same who teach on campus, so students aren’t getting a “lesser” track.
4. University of Maine (UMaine Online)
The University of Maine’s online platform is broad and well-established. Through “UMaine Online,” you’ll find over 70 online degree programs (undergraduate and graduate) and more than 500 online courses available year-round.
For undergraduates, fully online options include bachelor’s degrees such as liberal studies, economics, political science, business administration (management), and others. Graduate students can choose from many master’s programmes and certificates in education, engineering, business, nutrition, sustainability, and more, all of which are offered entirely online.
The structure is created for flexibility: whether you’re part-time, working, or living outside Maine, you can arrange your studies around your life. The institution also emphasises helping adult learners finish degrees, use prior credits, and move at t pace.
Why Many Working Adults Choose Online Colleges in Maine
One thing that stands out about Maine’s online colleges is how intentional they are about supporting adult learners. Most programs run in short terms or flexible blocks, so you can move at your own pace.
Advising and academic help are built in, not something you have to chase down. And because these universities have been offering online programs for years, the platforms are stable and easy to learn.
If you’ve ever avoided going back to school because of time, distance, or family schedules, online study removes those barriers. You log in when you can, complete your weekly work, and keep moving forward, without having to be in a classroom at 9 AM every Monday.
Most Lucrative Online Degree Programs in Maine
Certain fields in Maine have strong employment growth and offer higher earning potential, especially for students building careers while studying online. Programs in healthcare, business, education, cybersecurity, and public administration tend to lead the list. For example, online Nursing (RN-BSN and MSN) programs are in demand because Maine has a growing need for qualified nurses and clinical leaders.
Business degrees like Business Administration, Accounting, and Supply Chain Management also open doors in local companies, hospitals, non-profits, and remote work roles. The technology and security fields are growing, too. Programs like Cybersecurity and Computer Information Systems prepare students for remote-friendly roles that pay well and are projected to expand nationally.
On the public sector side, Education and Social Work degrees remain important because Maine communities continue to need teachers, school support staff, and case workers. What makes these programs “lucrative” is not just salary, it’s job security and long-term demand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Will my online degree say “online” on the certificate?
No. The degree you earn online is the same as the one earned on campus. Employers typically look at the institution and the qualification, not the mode of study.
2. Do I have to live in Maine to enroll?
Not necessarily. Most of the schools listed accept students from other states and provide support for remote learners. Just check licensing requirements if your program leads to certification (like nursing or teaching).
3. Are online courses easier than traditional classes?
No, they require the same level of work. The difference is flexibility. You’re still expected to participate in discussions, complete weekly assignments, and keep pace with the course.
4. Can I transfer credits if I already started a degree before?
Yes. Most of these colleges allow transfer credits, and some also review military training or professional experience. This can shorten the time it takes to finish your degree.
5. How many hours per week will I need to study?
Generally, 8–12 hours per class each week. If you take two classes at once, it helps to plan your study time just like you would a work schedule.
6. Can online students receive financial aid?
Yes, as long as you’re enrolled in an accredited program. You can apply for FAFSA, federal grants, scholarships, and, in some cases, employer tuition benefits.