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Key Takeaways
Best artificial intelligence degree programs: Colby College, Bowdoin College, U of Maine
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $2,880 to $64,304/year
Southern Maine Community ... offers the most affordable option at $2,880/yr
Artificial Intelligence degree programs available: 2 associate's, 1 master's, 1 doctoral in Maine
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
Maine community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
2 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees
Education Commission of the States
Major employers: IDEXX, WEX, Tyler Technologies, Covetrus
Tech hubs in Portland and Bangor
Hakia Research 2026
Artificial Intelligence degree programs near 25+ cities across Maine
Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Maine Artificial Intelligence programs
We rank 11 accredited artificial intelligence programs in Maine using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.
Are Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Maine Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Artificial Intelligence Degree Rankings in Maine
Compare the top-ranked Artificial Intelligence programs in Maine by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Artificial Intelligence Programs in Maine
Program Landscape
Maine offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in artificial intelligence, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Southern Maine Community ..., York County Community Col..., which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.
Costs & Value
Community colleges in Maine offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $2,880/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $51,876 in Maine.
Career Pathways
Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with Maine's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Portland, Bangor, Augusta areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like IDEXX, WEX, Tyler Technologies hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.
Curriculum & Specializations
Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among artificial intelligence schools in Maine, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their artificial intelligence degrees in Maine.
Best Bachelor's Artificial Intelligence Programs in Maine
Program Landscape
Maine ranks among the nation's top destinations for artificial intelligence education, with 7 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 4 public and 3 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Colby College, Bowdoin College, U of Maine, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Maine artificial intelligence programs earn a median salary of $80,172, 18% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Portland, Bangor, Augusta metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including IDEXX, WEX, Tyler Technologies.
Costs & Value
Tuition ranges from $7,650 to $64,304 annually, with an average of $27,828/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 95%, with the highest reaching 99%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.
Curriculum & Specializations
Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Maine's leading technology employers. For students seeking artificial intelligence degrees in Maine, these top-ranked artificial intelligence schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | University of Maine at Presque Isle | Presque Isle, ME | Public | $7,650 | — | 31.4 |
| #7 | University of Maine at Farmington | Farmington, ME | Public | $8,910 | — | 31.2 |
Best Master's Artificial Intelligence Programs in Maine
Program Landscape
Maine offers 1 master's degree programs in artificial intelligence, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Maine, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.
Career Outcomes
Master's graduates in Maine earn a median salary of $94,320, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Portland, Bangor, Augusta creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with IDEXX, WEX, Tyler Technologies actively recruiting from these programs.
Costs & Value
Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $12,000/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.
Curriculum & Specializations
Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Maine's artificial intelligence schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Best Doctoral Artificial Intelligence Programs in Maine
Program Landscape
Maine is home to 1 doctoral programs in artificial intelligence, preparing students for research positions, faculty appointments, and executive technical roles. Leading programs at U of Maine are recognized for cutting-edge research, strong faculty publications, and competitive funding packages.
Career Outcomes
Doctoral graduates command premium salaries, with Maine PhD holders earning a median of $117,900, reflecting the advanced expertise required for research and executive positions. The Portland, Bangor, Augusta region's research universities and corporate R&D centers provide extensive collaboration opportunities with industry leaders like IDEXX, WEX, Tyler Technologies.
Costs & Value
PhD programs typically require 4-6 years of full-time study, including coursework, qualifying examinations, and original dissertation research. Many programs offer full funding through teaching or research assistantships, covering tuition and providing stipends of $25,000–$40,000 annually.
Curriculum & Specializations
Research strengths across Maine programs include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, systems, and theoretical computer science. For aspiring researchers pursuing artificial intelligence degrees in Maine, graduates go on to careers as university faculty, industry research scientists, or technical executives, contributing to advances in technology that impact millions of users worldwide.
Artificial Intelligence Degree Costs & Tuition in Maine
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $22,284/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $55,710/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,571/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $133,704 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $33,426 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Artificial Intelligence Students in Maine
State Aid Programs
Maine residents pursuing artificial intelligence degrees have access to multiple layers of financial support. The Maine State Grant provides need-based grants up to $1,500 per year for eligible Maine residents, making it a critical resource for students at public institutions across the state (Maine State Grant). Additionally, the federal government offers comprehensive aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which opens doors to Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study opportunities (Federal Student Aid). These programs apply regardless of whether students attend a community college or a four-year university in Maine.
Key Programs & Amounts
Many Maine institutions offering artificial intelligence programs provide institutional scholarships and aid packages to supplement state and federal support. Students should compare financial aid offers from programs like those at the University of Maine System campuses, which serve as major providers of AI education in the state. The College Scorecard tool allows prospective students to estimate net price and see what previous students actually paid after grants and scholarships. Maine's Maine Transfer Pathways system also supports cost-effective educational progression, allowing students to start at community colleges with lower initial tuition before transferring to four-year institutions, potentially reducing overall education costs (Maine Transfer Pathways).
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator, Maine
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree in Maine. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.
Artificial Intelligence Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a artificial intelligence degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+1064%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,967,896
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
$147,619
Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.
Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.
Detailed Breakdown
How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Direct cost of the degree program
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)
Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com
Artificial Intelligence Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Maine metro areas
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Portland | $104K |
| Bangor | $99K |
| Augusta | $94K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Artificial Intelligence Graduates in Maine
Find artificial intelligence jobs in Maine. These major employers across Maine metro areas are actively hiring artificial intelligence degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Artificial Intelligence Jobs in Portland
MEArtificial Intelligence Jobs in Bangor
METransfer Pathways for Artificial Intelligence Degrees in Maine
State Transfer System
Maine's Maine Transfer Pathways system provides structured routes for students to transfer from community colleges to four-year universities without losing credits or progress. This system is crucial for AI education, as 2 Maine community colleges offer associate degree programs, Southern Maine Community College and York County Community College, serving as affordable entry points for students pursuing bachelor's degrees. The Maine Transfer Pathways framework ensures that general education and foundational AI coursework (programming, mathematics, discrete structures) completed at community colleges articulate directly to 7 bachelor's-granting institutions. This pathway particularly benefits students managing financial constraints, as community college tuition averages just $2,880–$7,560 annually, compared to four-year institution costs.
How Transfers Work
Students following the transfer pathway can begin their AI education affordably at Southern Maine Community College or York County Community College, then seamlessly transition to universities like University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, or other 4-year Maine institutions to complete bachelor's degrees. The University of Maine System maintains explicit transfer agreements guaranteeing course credit recognition, allowing students to graduate on time without unnecessary repetition. Associate degree holders completing prerequisite coursework may directly enter junior-level bachelor's programs. Maine residents transferring through this pathway may qualify for Maine State Grants (up to $1,500 annually) at both levels, maximizing affordability. For students exploring related technical fields, Maine offers similar transfer pathways in Computer Science and Data Science, creating flexible educational progressions.
Why Pursue an Artificial Intelligence Degree in Maine?
Industry & Workforce
Maine offers a strong pathway for students pursuing Artificial Intelligence education, with 12 institutions across the state providing AI programs at multiple degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, Maine schools awarded 116 bachelor's degrees, 11 master's degrees, 10 associate degrees, and 2 doctoral degrees in artificial intelligence, demonstrating strong institutional commitment to this growing field. The state's higher education landscape includes 22 four-year institutions and 8 two-year institutions, creating diverse options for learners at various educational stages and financial situations. Top-ranked programs like Colby College and Bowdoin College consistently attract talented students seeking rigorous AI training.
Salary Outlook
Maine's affordability advantage makes AI education accessible to more students. Public four-year institutions charge an average in-state tuition of just $9,067, compared to out-of-state rates of $21,909, positioning Maine competitively on the national stage (College Scorecard). The state's major employment centers, including Portland, Lewiston, and Bangor, host significant employers like MaineHealth, IDEXX Laboratories, and L.L.Bean, creating internship and career opportunities for AI graduates. Maine residents also benefit from the Maine State Grant, which provides need-based aid up to $1,500 per year. For prospective students exploring related fields, Maine's strong Data Science, Machine Learning, and Computer Science programs offer complementary educational pathways.
Artificial Intelligence Program Availability in Maine
Source: IPEDS 2024
Artificial Intelligence Job Market & Salary Data in Maine
Employment Outlook
Maine's artificial intelligence job market is experiencing steady growth, with educational institutions across the state producing 139 bachelor's degree completions annually and 11 master's degree completions according to the latest IPEDS program data. The state's AI workforce is concentrated in major metropolitan areas including Portland-South Portland and Bangor, where tech talent pipelines connect directly to employers seeking skilled professionals. Current labor market data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics provides comprehensive insights into salary ranges and job growth projections across Maine's technology sector, helping job seekers understand compensation benchmarks in their chosen specializations.
Salaries by Metro
The state's 12 institutions offering AI programs, including 7 bachelor's programs and 2 master's programs, are strategically positioned to serve the workforce needs of Maine's emerging tech hubs. Students graduating from top-ranked programs like Colby College and Bowdoin College enter a competitive job market backed by strong regional demand. For comprehensive salary data, career outlooks, and occupational employment statistics specific to Maine's technology sector, prospective students and job seekers should consult the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Maine occupational data. Additionally, exploring related fields such as Machine Learning in Maine and Data Science in Maine can provide broader career pathway options for AI professionals seeking specialization opportunities.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Artificial Intelligence Programs in Maine
Online Programs
0 available in Maine
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Artificial Intelligence Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $26,000
- Total Programs
- 10
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- $47,300
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- Median Tuition
- $44,500
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- 177
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
- Total Programs
- 38
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
- Total Programs
- 62
- Median Tuition
- $8,600
- Total Programs
- 112
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Artificial Intelligence Degree Programs in Maine: FAQ
What are the best artificial intelligence degree programs in Maine?
How much do artificial intelligence degree programs cost in Maine?
What salary can artificial intelligence degree graduates earn in Maine?
Are there online artificial intelligence degree programs in Maine?
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Is an artificial intelligence degree program worth it in Maine?
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What financial aid is available for artificial intelligence degree students in Maine?
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Maine salary and employment data
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
Taylor Rupe
Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)
Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.