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Key Takeaways
Best computer programming 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
Computer Programming degree programs available: 2 associate's, 1 master's, 1 doctoral in Maine
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
3 online computer programming degree programs in Maine
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
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
Computer Programming 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 Computer Programming programs
We rank 12 accredited computer programming 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 Computer Programming Degree Programs in Maine Worth It?
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Programming Degree Rankings in Maine
Compare the top-ranked Computer Programming programs in Maine by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Computer Programming Programs in Maine
Program Landscape
Maine offers 2 accredited associate's degree programs in computer programming, 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 computer programming schools in Maine, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their computer programming degrees in Maine.
Best Bachelor's Computer Programming Programs in Maine
Program Landscape
Maine ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer programming education, with 8 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 4 public and 4 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 computer programming 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 $27,000/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 computer programming degrees in Maine, these top-ranked computer programming schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
Show all 8 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Husson University | Bangor, ME | Private | $21,204 | — | 38.9 |
| #7 | University of Maine at Presque Isle | Presque Isle, ME | Public | $7,650 | — | 31.4 |
| #8 | University of Maine at Farmington | Farmington, ME | Public | $8,910 | — | 31.2 |
Best Master's Computer Programming Programs in Maine
Program Landscape
Maine offers 1 master's degree programs in computer programming, 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 computer programming schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
Best Doctoral Computer Programming Programs in Maine
Program Landscape
Maine is home to 1 doctoral programs in computer programming, 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 computer programming 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.
Computer Programming Degree Costs & Tuition in Maine
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $22,176/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $55,440/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,544/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $133,056 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $33,264 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Programming Students in Maine
State Aid Programs
Maine residents pursuing computer programming degrees have access to multiple layers of financial support. The Maine State Grant program provides need-based grants up to $1,500 per year for eligible Maine residents, making it a critical resource for reducing out-of-pocket costs. To apply, students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for both federal and state aid. The University of Maine System and other Maine institutions participate fully in federal aid programs, including subsidized and unsubsidized loans, Pell Grants, and work-study opportunities.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal aid, many Maine colleges offer institutional scholarships specifically for computer programming and STEM fields. Prospective students should contact financial aid offices at their target institutions, such as the University of Maine, Colby College, and Bowdoin College, to learn about merit scholarships, talent-based awards, and departmental funding. The Maine Transfer Pathways system also benefits students starting at community colleges, as Maine Transfer Pathways ensures smooth transitions while maximizing financial aid eligibility. Students are encouraged to explore aid options through the College Scorecard, which provides detailed financial aid and affordability data for Maine institutions. For additional information on federal aid options and repayment plans, visit StudentAid.gov.
Computer Programming Degree ROI Calculator, Maine
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer programming 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.
Computer Programming Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer programming degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
$1,677,254
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.
$133,333
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
Computer Programming 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 Computer Programming Graduates in Maine
Find computer programming jobs in Maine. These major employers across Maine metro areas are actively hiring computer programming degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Programming Jobs in Portland
MEComputer Programming Jobs in Bangor
METransfer Pathways for Computer Programming Degrees in Maine
State Transfer System
The Maine Transfer Pathways system provides structured articulation agreements that allow students from Maine's 8 community colleges to transfer seamlessly to bachelor's degree programs at four-year institutions without losing credits. This system is particularly valuable for students beginning at Southern Maine Community College (the top-ranked associate's program with 9 program completions) who wish to advance to institutions like the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, or Husson University. Transfer students maintain financial aid eligibility and benefit from guaranteed credit recognition, reducing time to degree and overall education costs.
How Transfers Work
Students pursuing associate's degrees save significantly by starting at community colleges before transferring; Southern Maine Community College charges only $2,880 compared to $12,000 at the University of Maine. The Maine Transfer Pathways system eliminates common barriers to transfer by aligning curriculum across institutions and coordinating advising through the University of Maine System. Prospective students should review specific transfer agreements with their chosen community college and destination institution to ensure programming courses align. The College Scorecard provides transfer and completion rate data, and financial aid counselors at institutions like University of Southern Maine can explain how transfer credits affect total education costs and timeline to employment.
Why Pursue a Computer Programming Degree in Maine?
Industry & Workforce
Maine offers a strong computer programming education pathway with 13 institutions offering programs across multiple degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, Maine institutions awarded 120 bachelor's completions, 10 associate's completions, and 3 master's completions in computer programming, demonstrating strong capacity across entry and advanced levels. The state's educational infrastructure is supported by the University of Maine System, which coordinates programming across multiple campuses and provides accessible pathways for students at all experience levels.
Salary Outlook
Maine's major employers, including MaineHealth, Hannaford, L.L.Bean, and IDEXX Laboratories, create consistent demand for skilled programmers across Southern Maine, the Midcoast, and Central Maine regions. The state's tech hubs in Portland, Lewiston, and Brunswick offer internship and employment opportunities. Top-ranked schools like Colby College, Bowdoin College, and the University of Maine deliver rigorous computer programming education. For affordability, University of Southern Maine leads at $8,316 in-state tuition, while the public four-year average is only $9,067, significantly lower than the national average. Students can explore related fields through Software Engineering in Maine and Web Development in Maine programs to broaden career options.
Computer Programming Program Availability in Maine
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Programming Job Market & Salary Data in Maine
Employment Outlook
Maine's computer programming job market is supported by a diverse employer base across multiple regions and industry sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Maine offers competitive opportunities for software developers and programmers in urban centers including Portland, Lewiston, Bangor, South Portland, and Auburn. The state's two major metropolitan areas. Portland-South Portland and Bangor, serve as primary technology hubs attracting companies seeking skilled programming talent. With 13 institutions offering computer programming degrees at various levels, Maine produces a steady pipeline of graduates to meet regional demand, with 120 bachelor's degree completions annually according to IPEDS data from 2023.
Salaries by Metro
The employment landscape for computer programmers in Maine is shaped by major employers spanning healthcare, retail, software development, and laboratory diagnostics sectors. Students pursuing computer programming degrees can explore career pathways through BLS State Data and the College Scorecard to understand salary ranges and job growth. For those interested in related fields, Maine also offers strong programs in Software Engineering in Maine, Web Development in Maine, and Computer Science in Maine. The state's public four-year institutions offer an average in-state tuition of $9,067, making Maine an affordable option compared to national private college costs.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Online vs On-Campus Computer Programming Programs in Maine
Online Programs
3 available in Maine
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Compare Computer Programming Programs in Other States
- Total Programs
- 10
- Median Tuition
- $26,000
- Total Programs
- 11
- Median Tuition
- $46,900
- Total Programs
- 67
- Median Tuition
- $43,700
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
- Total Programs
- 51
- Median Tuition
- $4,600
- Total Programs
- 75
- Median Tuition
- $6,800
- Total Programs
- 111
- Median Tuition
- $7,100
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Computer Programming Degree Programs in Maine: FAQ
What are the best computer programming degree programs in Maine?
How much do computer programming degree programs cost in Maine?
What salary can computer programming degree graduates earn in Maine?
Are there online computer programming degree programs in Maine?
What companies hire computer programming degree graduates in Maine?
Is a computer programming degree program worth it in Maine?
How long do computer programming degree programs take in Maine?
What financial aid is available for computer programming 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.