Top 3 Computer Science Programs in Maine 2025
Colby College
43 computer science graduates annually, 91% graduation rate
Bowdoin College
28 computer science graduates annually, 99% graduation rate
University of Maine
39 computer science graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
- 1.Maine offers 11+ accredited computer science programs across public and private universities
- 2.Colby College leads with 91% graduation rate
- 3.Maine software developers earn median $94,320 annually (BLS OES 2024)
- 4.Tech opportunities concentrated in Portland, Bangor, Augusta
- 5.Cost of living index: 108.1% of US average (above average)
Computer Science Education in Maine: Overview
Maine offers 11 accredited computer science programs, producing approximately 148 graduates annually. The state's tech industry is centered in Portland, Bangor, Augusta, with major employers including IDEXX, WEX, Tyler Technologies.
With a median software developer salary of $94,320 (BLS OES May 2024) and a cost of living index of 108.1% compared to the US average, Maine offers competitive salaries that offset the higher cost of living.
The top computer science programs in the state are led by Colby College, Bowdoin College, University of Maine, each offering distinct advantages in terms of program size, graduation rates, and industry connections.
Maine Computer Science Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Colby College | Waterville, ME | Private | $63,790 | 91% | 77.3 |
| 2 | Bowdoin College | Brunswick, ME | Private | $64,304 | 99% | 74.7 |
| 3 | University of Maine | Orono, ME | Public | $12,000 | — | 48.1 |
| 4 | University of Southern Maine | Portland, ME | Public | $8,316 | — | 41.8 |
| 5 | Thomas College | Waterville, ME | Private | $29,824 | — | 37.1 |
| 6 | Husson University | Bangor, ME | Private | $21,204 | — | 33.2 |
| 7 | Southern Maine Community College | South Portland, ME | Public | $2,880 | — | 32.2 |
| 8 | University of Maine at Fort Kent | Fort Kent, ME | Public | $7,560 | — | 30.6 |
| 9 | University of Maine at Presque Isle | Presque Isle, ME | Public | $7,650 | — | 29.5 |
| 10 | University of Maine at Farmington | Farmington, ME | Public | $8,910 | — | 29.3 |
| 11 | York County Community College | Wells, ME | Public | $2,880 | — | 27.3 |
Top 5 Computer Science Programs in Maine: Side-by-Side
| School | Colby College | Bowdoin College | U of Maine | U of Southern Maine | Thomas College |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $63,790 | $64,304 | $12,000 | $8,316 | $29,824 |
| Graduation Rate | 91% | 99% | N/A% | N/A% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 43 | 28 | 39 | 12 | 10 |
| Acceptance Rate | 7% | 8% | 96% | 79% | 97% |
| Type | Private | Private | Public | Public | Private |
| Score | 77.3/100 | 74.7/100 | 48.1/100 | 41.8/100 | 37.1/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Computer Science in Maine
Maine offers 9 bachelor's-level computer science programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Colby College, Bowdoin College, University of Maine. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $66,024 in the Maine market.
A bachelor's in computer science typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Computer Science Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Computer Science Bachelor's Programs in Maine
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Colby College | $63,790 | 91% | 43 | 77.3 |
| #2 Bowdoin College | $64,304 | 99% | 28 | 74.7 |
| #3 U of Maine | $12,000 | N/A% | 39 | 48.1 |
Top Computer Science Schools for Master's Degrees in Maine
For graduate study, Maine offers 1 master's-level computer science programs. Leading institutions include University of Maine. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Maine reaching $122,616 or more.
Explore our complete national rankings of the best computer science master's programs for more options beyond Maine.
Top 3 Computer Science Master's Programs in Maine
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Maine | $12,000 | N/A% | 3 | 32.3 |
Most Affordable Computer Science Colleges in Maine
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable computer science programs in Maine are at Southern Maine Community College ($2,880/year), York County Community College ($2,880/year), University of Maine at Fort Kent ($7,560/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Maine's competitive tech salaries.
At Southern Maine Community College, a 4-year degree costs approximately $11,520 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $66,024, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.4 years. See our Most Affordable Computer Science Programs for national comparisons.
Most Affordable Computer Science Programs in Maine (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Southern Maine Community... | $2,880 | $11,520 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #2 York County Community... | $2,880 | $11,520 | 0.4 years | Public |
| #3 U of Maine at Fort Kent | $7,560 | $30,240 | 1 years | Public |
Detailed Program Spotlights: Inside the Top 5 Computer Science Schools in Maine
Below are detailed profiles of the top 5 computer science programs in Maine, including admissions requirements, curriculum highlights, career outcomes, and what makes each program unique. Data sourced from official university websites and IPEDS 2023.
Colby College
Waterville, ME • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $63,790 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 91% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 43 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 7%
- • Ranking Score: 77.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- 91% graduation rate
- 43 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 77.3 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (91%), program size (43 graduates), state salary outcomes ($94,320), and selectivity (7% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Bowdoin College
Brunswick, ME • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $64,304 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 99% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 28 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 8%
- • Ranking Score: 74.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 99% graduation rate
- 28 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 74.7 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (99%), program size (28 graduates), state salary outcomes ($94,320), and selectivity (8% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Bowdoin's Computer Science program offers both major and minor tracks with flexible distribution requirements across theory, AI, and systems, plus an accelerated entry option for experienced students. The program emphasizes undergraduate research collaboration with faculty through independent studies and fellowship-funded summer research opportunities.
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Available Specializations / Concentrations
University of Maine
Orono, ME • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,000 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 39 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 96%
- • Ranking Score: 48.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 39 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 48.1 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (39 graduates), state salary outcomes ($94,320), and selectivity (96% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The University of Maine offers Computer Science programs with both BS (88 credits) and BA (71 credits) options requiring minimum C grades in core courses. Students with a minimum 2.0 GPA are encouraged to apply, making it accessible for transfer students.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.0
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120
University of Southern Maine
Portland, ME • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $8,316 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 12 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 79%
- • Ranking Score: 41.8 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 12 computer science graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 41.8 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (12 graduates), state salary outcomes ($94,320), and selectivity (79% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
USM's Computer Science program offers dedicated labs with diverse computing platforms, faculty research in cutting-edge areas like AI and health technology, and strong industry connections with major employers actively recruiting graduates. Students benefit from flexible course selection in specialized areas and access to modern makerspaces for hands-on innovation.
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: WEX, Tyler Technologies, Cash Star, IDEXX Laboratories, Unum, TD Bank, Quantrix, Kepware
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Thomas College
Waterville, ME • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $29,824 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Computer Science Graduates: 10 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 97%
- • Ranking Score: 37.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 10 computer science graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 37.1 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (10 graduates), state salary outcomes ($94,320), and selectivity (97% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Thomas College's Computer Science program combines technical mastery with real-world project management skills, offering both 3-year accelerated and online options while meeting IEEE and ACM standards. Students gain practical experience through hands-on projects and learn essential communication skills alongside technical competencies.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 3.0
Program Details
- Credits: 121 credit hours
Career Outcomes
- Top Employers: Tyler Technologies
Career Paths
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Software Developer opportunities in Maine with strong job growth.
Full Stack Developer
SOC 15-1252Full Stack Developer opportunities in Maine with strong job growth.
Systems Architect
SOC 15-1252Systems Architect opportunities in Maine with strong job growth.
DevOps Engineer
SOC 15-1244DevOps Engineer opportunities in Maine with strong job growth.
Technical Lead
SOC 15-1252Technical Lead opportunities in Maine with strong job growth.
Computer Science Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Massachusetts
Illinois
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- You want access to tech jobs in Portland, Bangor, Augusta
- You're seeking competitive salaries ($94,320 median)
- You want to work at companies like IDEXX or WEX
- You prefer Maine's quality of life
- You prioritize highest possible salary (consider CA, WA, NY)
- You want more program options (CA has 100+ vs Maine's 11)
- You're looking for lower cost of living (consider TX, NC, GA)
Computer Science in Maine FAQ
Based on 11 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Computer Science degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources (IPEDS 2023)
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
Maine-specific salaries from BLS OES May 2024
Related Resources
Data Sources & Methodology
Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System - program completions, graduation rates, tuition, admissions
Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics - Maine salary data
2023-2033 occupational outlook and growth projections
Program-specific admissions, curriculum, and career outcome data
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.