Leading PhDs in Maine, Campus or Online

Est. Time: 6 mins

Updated: 04/18/2026

Get started on your advanced degree! This guide offers an overview of all of the PhD and doctoral programs in Maine. Join us to learn about top schools, popular programs, and what to expect from your PhD experience.

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Online Learning
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Paying for School
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Salary Outlook

Doctoral programs in Maine can help you advance your career in a state with a growing economy and expanding opportunities.

Whether you’re planning a return to campus or exploring flexible options, Maine offers in-person and online PhD programs to fit your goals.

This guide covers top programs, formats, and funding options to help you plan your next step.

Top-Rated PhD and Doctoral Programs in Maine

Choosing the best doctoral program in Maine depends on your goals, budget, and preferences.

However, most students prioritize academic quality, affordability, and student support.

The universities below stand out in these areas and offer strong options for both online and on-campus programs.

The University of Maine

The University of Maine is the state’s largest graduate school, offering 23 doctoral programs across fields like science, engineering, and the liberal arts.

Most programs include some in-person learning, but UMaine also has the most online and hybrid options in the state.

Why it stands out:

Affordable tuition compared to other Northeastern universities
1,000+ funding opportunities each year
Access to research support, tutoring, and career services

UMaine combines strong academics, funding, and student support in one program.

University of Southern Maine

The University of Southern Maine (USM) offers nine doctoral programs in fields like healthcare, law, public policy, and education.

Students benefit from small class sizes, dedicated faculty, and a close-knit community.

Program highlights:

Online, hybrid, and low-residency options
No GRE requirement
No extra tuition for out-of-state students

USM also offers 150+ funded assistantships each year and participates in the New England Regional Student Program to help reduce costs.

Northeastern University

At the Northeastern University (Portland campus), students can pursue eight STEM-focused doctoral programs, including computer engineering, environmental engineering, and network science.

Many programs are interdisciplinary and research-driven, offering flexibility in how you structure your studies.

What sets it apart:

Industry experiential PhD designed for working professionals
Research projects aligned with your current employer
Ability to earn your PhD without pausing your career

This model combines real-world experience with advanced research training.

Types of PhD and Doctoral Programs Available in Maine

Doctoral programs in Maine offer a range of flexible formats to fit different needs and lifestyles.

Your ideal option may depend on your location, career stage, or personal responsibilities.

Below are the most common program formats to help you find the right fit.

Full-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in Maine

In a full-time PhD program, expect to treat your studies like a full-time job.

This format allows you to immerse yourself and finish faster, but it requires a significant time commitment.

Before enrolling, make sure you have a plan for funding, since balancing work and full-time study can be challenging.

Examples of full-time PhD programs in Maine include:

Part-Time PhD/Doctoral Programs in Maine

Part-time PhD programs are designed for students who want to keep working while earning their degree.

These programs offer flexible schedules, though the workload can still be demanding.

Some use accelerated terms to help you make steady progress, and certain schools allow you to switch between full- and part-time enrollment each semester.

Examples of part-time PhD programs in Maine include:

PhD in Public Policy at the University of Southern Maine
Industry PhD at Northeastern University

Fully Funded PhD/Doctoral Programs in Maine

If you’re concerned about costs, look into fully funded PhD programs.

These programs typically offer:

Tuition coverage
A living stipend
Work as a teaching or research assistant

Assistantships not only help with expenses but also provide valuable experience for your CV.

Keep in mind that fully funded spots are competitive, so apply early and broadl

Examples of fully funded doctoral programs in Maine include:

No-GRE PhD/Doctoral Programs in Maine

Many doctoral programs in Maine no longer require the GRE, making the application process more accessible.

Instead, admissions committees focus on:

Academic history
Relevant experience
Statement of purpose

Skipping the GRE can save time and money, especially if standardized testing isn’t your strength

Examples of no-GRE doctoral programs in Maine include:

Accelerated PhD/Doctoral Programs in Maine

Accelerated doctoral programs are still relatively uncommon, but they can significantly shorten your timeline.

While Maine doesn’t offer many stand-alone accelerated PhDs, some schools provide fast-track pathways from undergraduate to doctoral study.

These options can help you save a year or more on your degree.

Examples of accelerated doctoral programs in Maine:

No-Dissertation PhD/Doctoral Programs in Maine

Not all doctoral programs require a dissertation, especially in professional degrees.

Instead, students may complete:

Capstone projects
Internships
Additional coursework

A dissertation is important for academic and research careers, but if your goals are more applied, a no-dissertation option may be a better fit.

Examples of no-dissertation PhD programs in Maine:

Everyone wants to finish their degree as quickly as possible, but that may not be the best academic path. A good doctoral degree prepares you to be an expert in the field, so it is best not to rush. Choose the program that is going to ready you for success in your chosen area, not just the fastest option.

Timon Kaple

Popular Fields to Earn Your PhD and Doctoral Degree in Maine

Education

An EdD or PhD in Education prepares you to move beyond the classroom into leadership and specialized roles.

Graduates often pursue careers in:

Curriculum design
School administration
Higher education

Programs typically combine teaching and learning theory with leadership and management training.

Quality Examples of Hybrid/Online Programs

Physical Therapy

A Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) is required to become a licensed physical therapist in Maine.

Most students enter DPT programs with prior experience, often as physical therapy assistants.

Programs combine classroom learning with extensive clinical hours, giving you hands-on experience with real patients.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

Psychology

A doctoral degree (PhD or PsyD) is required to become a licensed psychologist.

These programs provide the training and clinical experience needed for practice.

While some mental health roles are available with a master’s degree, doctoral-level psychologists often have higher earning potential and more advancement opportunities.

Quality Example of an On-Campus Program

The University of Maine

Quality Example of a Hybrid/Online Program

University of Southern Maine

Computer Engineering

Earning a PhD in computer engineering demonstrates that you’re on the cutting edge of the field. These programs offer ample time to explore design and development at the highest levels.

Typically, PhD holders in the computer engineering field go on to teach, research, or work in product development.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

Nursing

Nurses who earn their DNP have the chance to specialize in advanced nursing practices such as family medicine, anesthesia, or midwifery. Because of these advanced skills, DNP nurses are in high demand, command excellent salaries, and have plenty of professional opportunities.

Many working nurses opt to pursue their DNP online or part-time as part of their professional development requirements.

Quality Examples of On-Campus Programs

Quality Example of a Hybrid/Online Program

University of Maine, Fort Kent

Start on Your Online Doctoral Journey in Maine

While in-person PhD programs are still common, many schools now offer online, hybrid, and low-residency options.

These formats make doctoral study more accessible for students who need flexibility or remote access.

Common formats include:

Fully online: Popular in fields like nursing, where students can work full-time while studying
Hybrid: Combines online coursework with regular on-campus sessions
Low-residency: Mostly online with occasional short campus visits

Some programs, like online DNP options, are designed for working professionals, while others require in-person labs or intensives.

Before enrolling, make sure you understand the on-campus requirements and location expectations.

Secure Funds: Financing Your Maine PhD Program

Earning a doctoral degree is a major investment, so it’s important to minimize debt when possible.

Many students pursue fully funded positions to cover tuition and living expenses, but other financial aid options are available.

As you plan your budget, explore:

School-based scholarships and fellowships
State funding programs
Professional organization awards

Some universities, like the University of New England, offer extensive scholarship and grant opportunities. There are also some state-funded opportunities.

Start early and apply broadly to maximize your funding options.

I had two types of assistantships over the span of four years: one in a sound archive and one teaching in the classroom. Both were valuable experiences, but each came with a steep learning curve. Explore your options and consider whether those challenges align with your goals.

Timon Kaple