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Southern Maine Community College
South Portland, MEPublic
$2,880
Tuition/yr
28%
Grad rate
68.3
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Portland's tech cluster, led by IDEXX, WEX, and Tyler Technologies, gives Maine CS graduates a local job market that punches above its weight
These firms specialize in veterinary diagnostics, payment processing, and government software, creating niche CS opportunities in the Greater Portland area
Hakia Research 2026
Colby College ranks #1 with a 91% graduation rate, and Bowdoin College follows at 99%, both elite liberal arts CS programs
These are highly selective private colleges at $63,790/yr and $64,304/yr respectively, best suited for students seeking a small-campus, research-oriented experience
University of Maine in Orono is the top public option at $12,000/yr with a CAE-CDE designation and the state's only CS doctoral program
University of Southern Maine in Portland offers a more affordable public alternative at $8,316/yr, with proximity to the state's main employer cluster
Maine CS graduates earn a $94,320 median salary, with 22% projected job growth through 2032
Lower cost of living than neighboring Massachusetts means competitive purchasing power, especially in the Portland metro
Southern Maine Community College and York County Community College both charge $2,880/yr, among the cheapest CS pathways in New England
Three associate's programs provide transfer routes to University of Maine system bachelor's degrees, with 4 online options available statewide
Updated June 28, 2026
How we ranked Maine Computer Science programs
We rank 14 accredited computer science 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.
Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodologyAre Computer Science Degree Programs in Maine Worth It?
Answer
$94,320
Yes. The best computer science degree programs in Maine deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $94,320 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $20,847/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Computer Science Degree Rankings in Maine
Compare the top-ranked Computer Science programs in Maine by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Computer Science Programs in Maine
2
Programs ranked
$2,880
Avg tuition/yr
31%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Maine offers 3 accredited associate's degree programs in computer science, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Southern Maine Community ..., U of Maine at Fort Kent, 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 $4,440/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 science schools in Maine, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their computer science degrees in Maine.
Best Bachelor's Computer Science Programs in Maine
7
Programs ranked
$29,014
Avg tuition/yr
62%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Maine ranks among the nation's top destinations for computer science education, with 9 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 5 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 science 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 $7,560 to $64,304 annually, with an average of $24,840/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 science degrees in Maine, these top-ranked computer science schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
#4
$12,360
Tuition/yr
55%
Grad rate
67.8
Hakia Score
Show all 7 ranked programs
| Rank | School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Hakia Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #6 | Thomas College | Waterville, ME | Private nonprofit | $30,718 | 54% | 61.1 |
| #7 | University of Maine at Presque Isle | Presque Isle, ME | Public | $7,800 | 52% | 60.8 |
Best Master's Computer Science Programs in Maine
1
Programs ranked
$12,360
Avg tuition/yr
55%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Maine offers 1 master's degree programs in computer science, 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 science schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$12,360
Tuition/yr
55%
Grad rate
60.9
Hakia Score
Best Doctoral Computer Science Programs in Maine
1
Programs ranked
$12,360
Avg tuition/yr
55%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Maine is home to 1 doctoral programs in computer science, 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 science 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 Science Degree Costs & Tuition in Maine
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $20,847/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $52,118/year |
| Community college tuition | $5,212/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $125,084 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $31,270 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Computer Science Students in Maine
State Aid Programs
Maine residents pursuing Computer Science degrees have access to several financial aid resources designed to reduce the cost of higher education. The Maine State Grant program provides need-based grants of up to $1,500 per year for eligible Maine residents attending approved institutions. This state-level support complements federal aid options available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which opens doors to federal Pell Grants, Direct Loans, and Work-Study programs. Students should complete the FAFSA as early as possible to maximize their eligibility for both state and federal assistance.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state and federal grants, Maine's public universities and community colleges often offer institutional scholarships and merit-based aid packages that can significantly reduce net costs. Private institutions like Colby College and Bowdoin College, while carrying higher sticker prices, offer strong financial aid packages to admitted students. Prospective Computer Science majors should explore scholarship opportunities through the College Scorecard, which provides detailed financial aid data by institution. Additionally, reviewing resources on StudentAid.gov can help students understand loan options and repayment plans specific to Computer Science graduates. Those interested in more affordable options should explore programs at University of Maine at Augusta, which combines low tuition with financial aid accessibility.
Computer Science Degree ROI Calculator, Maine
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a computer science 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 Science Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a computer science degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+907%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,677,254
Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.
Break-Even
5 years
Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.
COL-Adjusted Salary
$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
Total Investment$185,000
Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)
Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000
Direct cost of the degree program
Opportunity Cost$140,000
4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time
20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662
Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth
20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408
What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth
Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.9%
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 Science Salaries by Metro Area
Median annual salary in Maine metro areas
Portland$104K
Bangor$99K
Augusta$94K
View data table
| Category | Value |
|---|---|
| Portland | $104K |
| Bangor | $99K |
| Augusta | $94K |
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Hakia.com
Top Employers Hiring Computer Science Graduates in Maine
Find computer science jobs in Maine. These major employers across Maine metro areas are actively hiring computer science degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Computer Science Jobs in Portland
MEWEX Inc.
fintech
IDEXX Laboratories
biotech
Tyler Technologies
govtech
MaineHealth
healthcare
Computer Science Jobs in Bangor
MEUniversity of Maine
education
Jackson Laboratory
research
Transfer Pathways for Computer Science Degrees in Maine
State Transfer System
Maine's structured transfer system, the Maine Transfer Pathways, provides clear routes for community college students to transition seamlessly into bachelor's degree programs at four-year universities (Maine Transfer Pathways). This system establishes articulation agreements between Maine's 3 associate's-granting institutions and 9 bachelor's-granting universities, ensuring that credits earned at community colleges transfer directly without loss or duplication. Students completing an associate's degree in computer science at institutions like Southern Maine Community College (9 completions in 2023) or University of Maine at Augusta can smoothly advance to bachelor's programs with junior-level standing. The Maine Transfer Pathways system removes barriers to degree completion, reduces overall education costs, and allows students to save money on general education courses before pursuing upper-level computer science coursework. All transfer credits are guaranteed recognition, protecting students' academic and financial investments.
How Transfers Work
Community colleges in Maine serve as vital access points for computer science education, offering affordable entry into the field. With average public in-state tuition of $9,067 at four-year institutions and community college tuition even lower, Maine's pathway system maximizes affordability (College Scorecard). Southern Maine Community College and University of Maine at Augusta lead as primary transfer feeders, with documented pathways to bachelor's programs across the University of Maine System. Students benefit from personalized advising on transfer requirements, course equivalencies, and application processes. Maine's transfer framework also qualifies students for state financial aid, including the Maine State Grant for residents (Maine State Grant), further reducing cost barriers. For students exploring online options, the University of Maine at Augusta offers flexible online bachelor's programs complementing community college transfer pathways. Learn more about affordable options by reviewing most affordable programs and best online programs to compare Maine's unique advantages.
Why Pursue a Computer Science Degree in Maine?
Industry & Workforce
Maine's computer science education landscape offers diverse pathways across 15 institutions, including 9 bachelor's-granting universities and 3 community colleges specializing in computing programs (IPEDS). The state's top programs at Colby College, Bowdoin College, and the University of Maine consistently produce skilled graduates ready for the tech industry. In 2023, Maine institutions awarded 123 bachelor's degrees in computer science, reflecting strong institutional commitment to computing education. For students seeking affordability, Maine's public universities offer exceptional value: the average in-state tuition at four-year public institutions is just $9,067, significantly below the national average and making a Maine education accessible to more students (College Scorecard).
Salary Outlook
Maine's strategic location and growing tech sector create genuine career opportunities for graduates. Major employers like IDEXX Laboratories, MaineHealth, L.L.Bean, and Hannaford actively recruit computer science professionals, particularly in the Portland-South Portland and Bangor metropolitan areas. The state's lower cost of living compared to tech hubs on the coasts, combined with affordable education, positions Maine graduates for financial success. Students interested in related fields should explore Software Engineering in Maine, Data Science in Maine, and Cybersecurity in Maine for specialized career tracks. Whether you're comparing Maine's offerings to other regions, Maine computer science education delivers strong value and genuine career pathways without the premium tuition costs found in California or New York.
Computer Science Program Availability in Maine
11 Programs
Maine offers 11 accredited computer science programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Portland, Bangor, Augusta.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Computer Science Job Market & Salary Data in Maine
Employment Outlook
Maine's computer science job market is shaped by a diverse employer base and growing demand across multiple sectors. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state continues to develop opportunities for software developers, systems analysts, and IT professionals. Major employment hubs are concentrated in the Portland-South Portland metropolitan area, the Bangor region, and Southern Maine communities. The University of Maine System, which has 15 institutions offering computer science programs statewide, produces 123 bachelor's degree completions annually, directly feeding the state's technical workforce pipeline. These graduates find positions across healthcare technology, retail operations, and manufacturing sectors that increasingly rely on digital infrastructure.
Salaries by Metro
For job seekers exploring Maine's computer science landscape, understanding regional employment patterns is essential. The Portland-South Portland metro area serves as the strongest job market, supported by proximity to major employers and educational institutions like Colby College and Bowdoin College. The Bangor region and Central Maine communities also offer growing opportunities in tech-adjacent industries. Students pursuing degrees from top programs, such as those at the University of Maine, ranked #3 for bachelor's programs, benefit from established employer networks and internship pipelines. For detailed salary data and occupational trends, consult the BLS Occupational Employment Statistics. Consider exploring related fields like Software Engineering in Maine and Cybersecurity in Maine for additional career pathways.
Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)
New graduates and career changers
Senior (8+ yrs)
Technical leads and architects
Median Salary in Maine$61,308$136,764
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred
Online vs On-Campus Computer Science Programs in Maine
Online Programs
4 available in Maine
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$18,762/yr$20,847/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)
Compare Computer Science Programs in Other States
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in New Hampshire
- Total Programs
- 21
- Median Tuition
- $15,500
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Vermont
- Total Programs
- 12
- Median Tuition
- $46,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 89
- Median Tuition
- $40,400
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 193
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 45
- Median Tuition
- $11,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 141
- Median Tuition
- $7,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 156
- Median Tuition
- $19,000
Best Computer Science Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 72
- Median Tuition
- $10,100
Computer Science Degree Programs in Maine: FAQ
What are the best computer science degree programs in Maine?
The best computer science degree programs in Maine based on our methodology are: 1) Colby College (91% graduation rate), 2) Bowdoin College, and 3) University of Maine. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Maine offers 11 total accredited programs across 7 public and 4 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 9 bachelor's programs.
How much do computer science degree programs cost in Maine?
Computer Science degree program costs in Maine vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $20,847/year, while private institutions average $45,863/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $5,212/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $83,388 at public schools to $183,454 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can computer science degree graduates earn in Maine?
Computer Science professionals in Maine earn a median salary of $94,320, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $61,308, while senior roles exceed $136,764. Salaries vary by metro area: Portland ($103,752), Bangor ($99,036) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online computer science degree programs in Maine?
Yes, Maine offers 4 accredited online Computer Science programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from University of Maine at Fort Kent and York County Community College. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire computer science degree graduates in Maine?
Major Computer Science employers in Maine include IDEXX, WEX, Tyler Technologies, Covetrus, MaineHealth. The Portland and Bangor metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Maine universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Maine's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is a computer science degree program worth it in Maine?
A computer science degree program in Maine offers strong ROI with a $94,320 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $20,847/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($106,582), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do computer science degree programs take in Maine?
Standard completion times for computer science degree programs in Maine are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Maine community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Maine university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for computer science degree students in Maine?
Maine computer science degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Maine state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Maine's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.
Data Sources
Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
Maine salary and employment data
Official University Websites
Program details and admissions information
Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.
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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.