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Southern Maine Community College
South Portland, MEPublic
$2,880
Tuition/yr
28%
Grad rate
72.5
Hakia Score
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology
Key Takeaways
Best cybersecurity degree programs: U of Maine at Augusta, Thomas College, U of Maine at Fort Kent
Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality
Tuition ranges from $2,880 to $29,824/year
Southern Maine Community ... offers the most affordable option at $2,880/yr
Cybersecurity degree programs available: 6 associate's, 2 master's in Maine
From community college pathways to advanced research degrees
2 online cybersecurity degree programs in Maine
Flexible scheduling for working professionals
Maine community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs
6 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
Cybersecurity 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 Cybersecurity programs
We rank 12 accredited cybersecurity 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 Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Maine Worth It?
Answer
$94,320
Yes. The best cybersecurity degree programs in Maine deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $94,320 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $6,987/year.
Source: BLS OEWS May 2024
Cybersecurity Degree Rankings in Maine
Compare the top-ranked Cybersecurity programs in Maine by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.
Best Associate's Cybersecurity Programs in Maine
3
Programs ranked
$4,520
Avg tuition/yr
28%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Maine offers 6 accredited associate's degree programs in cybersecurity, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Southern Maine Community ..., Eastern Maine Community C..., Central Maine Community C..., 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 cybersecurity schools in Maine, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their cybersecurity degrees in Maine.
Best Bachelor's Cybersecurity Programs in Maine
3
Programs ranked
$15,439
Avg tuition/yr
40%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Maine ranks among the nation's top destinations for cybersecurity education, with 4 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 3 public and 1 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are U of Maine at Augusta, Thomas College, U of Maine at Fort Kent, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.
Career Outcomes
Graduates from Maine cybersecurity 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 $29,824 annually, with an average of $13,149/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 0%, with the highest reaching -Infinity%. 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 cybersecurity degrees in Maine, these top-ranked cybersecurity schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.
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$30,718
Tuition/yr
54%
Grad rate
63.7
Hakia Score
Best Master's Cybersecurity Programs in Maine
2
Programs ranked
$19,259
Avg tuition/yr
41%
Avg grad rate
Program Landscape
Maine offers 2 master's degree programs in cybersecurity, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, U of Maine at Augusta, Thomas College, 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 $18,692/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 cybersecurity schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.
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$30,718
Tuition/yr
54%
Grad rate
60.6
Hakia Score
Cybersecurity Degree Costs & Tuition in Maine
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Average in-state tuition | $6,987/year |
| Average out-of-state tuition | $17,468/year |
| Community college tuition | $1,747/year |
| 4-year savings for residents | $41,924 |
| 2+2 transfer pathway savings | $10,480 |
Source: IPEDS 2024
Financial Aid & Scholarships for Cybersecurity Students in Maine
State Aid Programs
Maine residents pursuing cybersecurity degrees have access to multiple financial aid pathways designed to make higher education affordable. The primary state-level resource is the Maine State Grant, a need-based grant program that provides eligible Maine residents with up to $1,500 per year. This grant complements federal aid programs and can significantly reduce out-of-pocket costs, particularly for students attending community colleges or public universities within the state system. To apply for state and federal aid, all students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) through Federal Student Aid, which determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities.
Key Programs & Amounts
Beyond state grants, Maine cybersecurity students can explore institutional scholarships offered by individual colleges and universities. The University of Maine System, which administers 15 institutions offering cybersecurity programs across the state, provides various merit-based and need-based scholarships. Community college students benefit from lower tuition costs, averaging $2,880 annually, making the Maine Transfer Pathways system an excellent option for students seeking to complete associate degrees before transferring to bachelor's programs. Prospective students should research specific scholarships through their chosen institution and contact their financial aid office for information on employer-sponsored scholarships from major Maine employers such as MaineHealth, L.L.Bean, and IDEXX Laboratories. For comprehensive federal aid information, StudentAid.gov provides personalized guidance on grants, loans, and repayment options.
Cybersecurity Degree ROI Calculator, Maine
Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a cybersecurity 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.
Cybersecurity Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your return on investment for a cybersecurity degree
Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type
20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI
+801%
Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.
Net Gain
$1,482,166
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
$123,810
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)$2,517,574
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)$130,000
Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)
Annualized Return4.5%
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
Cybersecurity 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 Cybersecurity Graduates in Maine
Find cybersecurity jobs in Maine. These major employers across Maine metro areas are actively hiring cybersecurity degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.
Cybersecurity Jobs in Portland
MEWEX Inc.
fintech
IDEXX Laboratories
biotech
Tyler Technologies
govtech
MaineHealth
healthcare
Cybersecurity Jobs in Bangor
MEUniversity of Maine
education
Jackson Laboratory
research
Transfer Pathways for Cybersecurity Degrees in Maine
State Transfer System
Maine's transfer system is structured through the Maine Transfer Pathways, which provides streamlined articulation agreements between the state's 8 two-year community colleges and 22 four-year institutions. This framework allows students to earn an associate degree in cybersecurity at institutions like Southern Maine Community College (27 completions, $2,880 tuition), Eastern Maine Community College (18 completions, $2,880 tuition), or Central Maine Community College (16 completions, $2,880 tuition), then transfer with full credit recognition to bachelor's degree programs at the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, or University of Maine at Augusta. The structured pathways eliminate course duplication and ensure that community college credits transfer seamlessly as upper-level coursework, significantly reducing the time and cost of completing a bachelor's degree.
How Transfers Work
Students using Maine Transfer Pathways can progress from a two-year associate degree at low cost ($2,880 tuition across all community colleges) to a bachelor's degree at the University of Maine at Augusta for just $7,560 annually, creating an exceptionally affordable pathway to a four-year credential. The University of Maine at Augusta leads Maine in cybersecurity completions with 29 graduates annually, demonstrating strong transfer acceptance and program quality. Community colleges like York County Community College ($2,880 tuition) also participate in this system. Prospective students should consult the Maine Transfer Pathways website for specific articulation agreements and program-to-program mappings. Financial aid, including the Maine State Grant (need-based grants up to $1,500/year for Maine residents), further reduces costs. Related transfer pathways exist for information technology in Maine and network administration in Maine.
Why Pursue a Cybersecurity Degree in Maine?
Industry & Workforce
Maine offers a strong cybersecurity education landscape with 15 institutions across the state providing dedicated cybersecurity programs at multiple degree levels (IPEDS). Students can choose from 7 associate degree programs, 6 bachelor's degree programs, and 2 master's degree programs, with a combined 118 completions annually across all levels. This diversity of options allows aspiring cybersecurity professionals to pursue credentials tailored to their career timeline and goals, whether entering the workforce quickly through community colleges or advancing to graduate-level specialization.
Salary Outlook
The state's cybersecurity programs are anchored by top-ranked institutions including the University of Maine, University of Southern Maine, and University of Maine at Augusta, which dominate completion rates and offer affordable pathways into the field. Major employers in Maine, including MaineHealth, IDEXX Laboratories, and L.L.Bean, actively recruit cybersecurity graduates from regional programs. With average public in-state four-year tuition at only $9,067, Maine's cybersecurity education is significantly more affordable than national alternatives. The Portland-South Portland metro area and Bangor region serve as technology hubs that create local employment opportunities for graduates. Prospective students should explore best bachelor's programs nationwide and most affordable programs nationally to understand how Maine institutions compare.
Cybersecurity Program Availability in Maine
10 Programs
Maine offers 10 accredited cybersecurity programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Portland, Bangor, Augusta.
Source: IPEDS 2024
Cybersecurity Job Market & Salary Data in Maine
Employment Outlook
Maine's cybersecurity job market is expanding as organizations across the state prioritize digital security infrastructure. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Maine's technology and cybersecurity sectors are experiencing steady growth, with positions concentrated in major metropolitan areas including Portland-South Portland and Bangor. The state's diverse employer base, ranging from healthcare systems to retail and manufacturing, creates diverse opportunities for cybersecurity professionals seeking roles in their preferred industry sector.
Salaries by Metro
Educational pipelines in Maine support workforce development through 15 institutions offering cybersecurity programs at the associate's, bachelor's, and master's levels. In 2023, Maine institutions awarded 71 associate's degrees, 33 bachelor's degrees, and 10 master's degrees in cybersecurity (IPEDS Program Data, 2023). This output reflects growing demand from employers in Southern Maine, Midcoast, Downeast, and Central Maine regions. For prospective students, understanding salary expectations and career trajectories is essential, resources like the College Scorecard provide data on graduate earnings and employment outcomes. Students exploring cybersecurity careers should also review national best programs and most affordable options to compare Maine institutions against national standards.
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 Cybersecurity Programs in Maine
Online Programs
2 available in Maine
On-Campus Programs
Traditional classroom experience
Typical Tuition$6,288/yr$6,987/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 Cybersecurity Programs in Other States
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in New Hampshire
- Total Programs
- 9
- Median Tuition
- $15,500
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Massachusetts
- Total Programs
- 22
- Median Tuition
- $44,500
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in California
- Total Programs
- 27
- Median Tuition
- $5,700
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Washington
- Total Programs
- 32
- Median Tuition
- $4,300
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Texas
- Total Programs
- 50
- Median Tuition
- $6,200
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in New York
- Total Programs
- 65
- Median Tuition
- $18,600
Best Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Virginia
- Total Programs
- 25
- Median Tuition
- $15,000
Cybersecurity Degree Programs in Maine: FAQ
What are the best cybersecurity degree programs in Maine?
The best cybersecurity degree programs in Maine based on our methodology are: 1) University of Maine at Augusta (highly ranked), 2) Thomas College, and 3) University of Maine at Fort Kent. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Maine offers 10 total accredited programs across 9 public and 1 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 4 bachelor's programs.
How much do cybersecurity degree programs cost in Maine?
Cybersecurity degree program costs in Maine vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $6,987/year, while private institutions average $15,371/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $1,747/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $27,948 at public schools to $61,486 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 cybersecurity degree graduates earn in Maine?
Cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity degree programs in Maine?
Yes, Maine offers 2 accredited online Cybersecurity 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 Northern Maine Community College and Washington 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 cybersecurity degree graduates in Maine?
Major Cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity degree program worth it in Maine?
A cybersecurity degree program in Maine offers strong ROI with a $94,320 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $6,987/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 cybersecurity degree programs take in Maine?
Standard completion times for cybersecurity 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 cybersecurity degree students in Maine?
Maine cybersecurity 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.