Introduction
When considering moving to Maine for an MPA program, prospective students should weigh several factors. Maine’s culture and history add depth to the living experience. Maine’s lakes, rivers, and coastline also provide ample opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water activities. The state has a strong sense of community and is known for its friendly, welcoming residents. Prospective students can explore local museums, historical sites, and cultural events to immerse themselves in Maine’s history.
Key State Takeaways:
- Total MPA Programs Statewide: 1
- NASPAA-Accredited Programs: 0
- Annual Resident Tuition Average: $10,000 (PYR)
- Annual Non-Resident Tuition Average: $15,000 (PYR)
- Program Formats Offered: Online
- Average Starting Salary: $55,000
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- No GRE/GMAT Required
- 100% Online
- HLC Accredited
Walden University
Online Public Policy and Administration Programs
Walden University’s Public Administration programs are taught by a distinguished faculty of scholar-practitioners, many of whom have senior-executive experience in government and public service. Programs include:
- No GRE/GMAT Required
- Top Ranked
- Built for Leaders
Arizona State University
Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)
ASU’s Online Master of Public Administration provides students with a curriculum that covers leadership strategies, ethical decision-making, and effective management across various organizations.
- Transfer Credits Accepted
- Military Friendly
- 100% Online
Purdue Global
Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Purdue Global’s Online MPA is designed to help practicing and aspiring administrators develop skills and techniques to provide leadership in a wide variety of public service fields.
- Affordable
- Transfer Credits Accepted
- Accredited Program
Liberty University
Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Liberty University’s Master’s Degree in Public Administration Online is designed to equip students with a thorough background in the theories and practices essential for success in government and nonprofit roles. MPA areas of focus include:
- Accredited Programs
- Affordable Degrees
- 100% Online
Southern New Hampshire University
Online Public Administration & Political Science Degrees
Stand up and be counted with a degree in public administration/political science from Southern New Hampshire University—and learn how to facilitate change from within the system. Program offerings include:
MPA Programs in Maine
Overall, Maine offers a unique blend of coastal and rural experiences, as well as great career opportunities for MPA students. By considering these factors, prospective students can make an informed decision about whether Maine is the right fit for their graduate education and future career. Maine has one MPA program, summarized here:
University of Southern Maine
- Portland, ME.
- 36 Credit Hours
- Online
Program:
Policy, Planning, and Management
Program Overview:
USM’s MPPM is a 36-credit, practice-oriented public service degree you can complete fully online—with the option to take some classes after 4 pm on campus—making it a strong fit for working professionals across New England. Consider USM if you want an affordable e-tuition online pathway (no GRE required) backed by the Muskie School’s connections to Maine agencies, municipalities, nonprofits, and the Catherine Cutler Institute for hands-on projects.
Unique Components:
- Degree Tracks: Tailor your plan with two concentrations—Planning & Sustainability or Public Policy & Public/Nonprofit Management—and optional stackable certificates (Policy Analysis; Applied Research & Evaluation; Public & Nonprofit Management; Community Planning & Sustainable Development).
- Curriculum: 36 credits featuring core coursework in governance/policy, budgeting & finance, data/methods, and organizational leadership; the capstone synthesizes learning in a client-facing project. The Public Service Internship is available for professional experience.
Key Data Highlights:
- Format: Online (evening options)
- Accreditation: NEASCCIHE
- Credit Hours: 36
- GRE: Not required
- Online Tuition: $625 (PCH)
Other Considerations:
- Structured internships with partners like the Maine Town, City & County Managers Association and Food Policy/Sustainability placements; additional applied opportunities through the Catherine Cutler Institute.
- Accelerated Graduate Pathway (4+1) lets qualified undergrads start the MPPM early; a dual MPPM–Law option is also available. Credits from select Graduate Certificates can apply toward the MPPM.
ADVERTISEMENT
- No GRE/GMAT Required
- 100% Online
- HLC Accredited
Walden University
Online Public Policy and Administration Programs
Walden University’s Public Administration programs are taught by a distinguished faculty of scholar-practitioners, many of whom have senior-executive experience in government and public service. Programs include:
- No GRE/GMAT Required
- Top Ranked
- Built for Leaders
Arizona State University
Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)
ASU’s Online Master of Public Administration provides students with a curriculum that covers leadership strategies, ethical decision-making, and effective management across various organizations.
- Transfer Credits Accepted
- Military Friendly
- 100% Online
Purdue Global
Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Purdue Global’s Online MPA is designed to help practicing and aspiring administrators develop skills and techniques to provide leadership in a wide variety of public service fields.
- Affordable
- Transfer Credits Accepted
- Accredited Program
Liberty University
Online Master of Public Administration (MPA)
Liberty University’s Master’s Degree in Public Administration Online is designed to equip students with a thorough background in the theories and practices essential for success in government and nonprofit roles. MPA areas of focus include:
- Accredited Programs
- Affordable Degrees
- 100% Online
Southern New Hampshire University
Online Public Administration & Political Science Degrees
Stand up and be counted with a degree in public administration/political science from Southern New Hampshire University—and learn how to facilitate change from within the system. Program offerings include:
Accreditation Details
While Maine may not have any NASPAA-accredited MPA programs, it remains a competitive choice for graduate education in public administration. Prospective students should carefully research and evaluate the MPA programs in Maine to ensure they meet their academic and career goals, despite the lack of NASPAA accreditation.
Career Outlook
The employment outlook for MPA graduates in Maine is generally positive. Maine’s state and local governments, as well as nonprofit organizations, often seek skilled professionals to manage public programs and services. Networking with alumni, faculty, and local professionals can provide valuable insights into job opportunities.
Maine’s state government actively recruits via the Bureau of Human Resources career portal and runs weekly virtual office hours for job seekers; the state’s CareerCenter network also supports job search and connections.
- Maine State Park Manager: Oversees the management and operations of state parks in Maine, ensuring they are maintained and accessible to the public. This role involves managing park staff, coordinating park activities, and developing policies to protect natural resources.
- Director of Maine Office of Tourism: Leads the strategic planning and promotion of Maine’s tourism industry, including marketing campaigns, visitor services, and partnership development. This role is crucial for driving economic growth through tourism and requires strong leadership and marketing skills.
- Maine Coast Heritage Trust Conservation Manager: Manages conservation projects along Maine’s coastline, working to protect and preserve natural habitats and wildlife. This role involves collaborating with local communities, government agencies, and nonprofit organizations to promote conservation efforts.
State and local government hiring routes, nonprofit sector infrastructure (MANP research/compensation resources), and active tourism/conservation initiatives (Maine Office of Tourism programs and grants; destination management planning) illustrate the breadth of roles aligned with MPA skills in administration, policy, and community engagement.
Overall, Maine’s job market offers diverse and rewarding opportunities for MPA graduates, particularly within state and local government, nonprofit organizations, and environmental sectors. The state’s emphasis on community engagement, public service, and sustainable development align well with the skills and values cultivated in MPA programs, making Maine an attractive destination for those seeking meaningful and impactful careers in public administration.
All MPA Programs in Maine
| School Name | Degree Program Name | State | City | NASPAA Accredited | Online Degree | Program Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| University of Southern Maine | Master's in Public Policy & Management | Maine | Portland | No | No | https://usm.maine.edu/policy-planning-management/ |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the state capital and where are most public-sector jobs?
A: Augusta is the capital, with many state roles there and additional opportunities in the Portland metro and regional hubs.
Q: What policy areas are most active right now?
A: Climate and coastal resilience, offshore wind and renewables, fisheries/aquaculture, housing, public health, broadband, and transportation.
Q: Where are internships and entry-level opportunities typically found?
A: State agencies in Augusta, municipalities, regional planning/COG-style organizations, university centers, and statewide nonprofits.
Q: What are Maine’s major industries?
A: Government, health care and education, tourism/outdoor recreation, shipbuilding and advanced manufacturing, forest products, and growing aquaculture/renewables.
Q: How’s the cost of living and housing market?
A: Generally moderate compared to larger Northeast metros, but housing can be tight and pricier in Portland and coastal towns.
