Best Nursing Schools in Maine
The rural landscape of Maine is one of beauty and tranquility. However, while Maine’s stunning countryside invites thousands of travelers every year, it also invites a shortage of certain amenities and resources. Due to this and Maine’s rapidly aging population, it can often be hard to find adequate healthcare options in the state. According to recent surveys, Maine is expecting a 3% decrease in the nursing population. While this is troubling for local Mainers, it is also an opportunity for those who have been considering a career as a nurse. Many nursing programs exist in Maine and with the use of online programs and bridge programs, it’s now easier than ever to begin this new journey.
2027 Best Nursing Schools in Maine
Yearly Pass Rate Trends
Maine nursing programs demonstrated a steady upward trend in average pass rates from 2022 to 2024, with a notable increase in 2023.
- 2022: 81.85% average pass rate (766 students)
- 2023: 91.47% average pass rate (949 students)
- 2024: 92.36% average pass rate (812 students)
Top Performing Schools
The following schools achieved the highest average pass rates across the study period.
- Central Maine Community College: 98.89% average pass rate (90 students)
- Maine College of Health Professions: 96.09% average pass rate (128 students)
- University of New England: 95.51% average pass rate (245 students)
Pass Rate by Program Size
Program size shows minimal impact on pass rates, with large programs slightly outperforming smaller ones.
- Small (<50 students/year): 91.14% average pass rate (237 students)
- Medium (50-100 students/year): 91.48% average pass rate (528 students)
- Large (>100 students/year): 91.61% average pass rate (155 students)
Consistently High Performing Schools
Several Maine nursing programs consistently exceeded 90% average pass rates across multiple years.
- Central Maine Community College: 98.89% average pass rate (90 students, 3 years)
- Maine College of Health Professions: 96.09% average pass rate (128 students, 3 years)
- University of New England: 95.51% average pass rate (245 students, 3 years)
- Kennebec Valley Community College: 95.16% average pass rate (62 students, 2 years)
- Northern Maine Community College: 93.88% average pass rate (98 students, 3 years)
Central Maine Community College
Auburn, ME - Public 2-Year - cmcc.edu
Associate - Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Central Maine Community College's Associate of Science in Nursing (ASN) program delivers a comprehensive blend of general education and focused nursing coursework. Students engage in clinical rotations at regional healthcare facilities, gaining practical skills in diverse patient care settings. The curriculum prepares graduates for the NCLEX-RN licensure exam, emphasizing critical thinking, therapeutic communication, holistic assessment, and ethical practice. With evening and weekend classes, CMCC accommodates working students, and the program is ACEN accredited through 2028. Applicants must take the TEAS entrance exam. Recent NCLEX pass rates include 100% in 2022 and 2023, and 96.43% in 2024. Generous transfer agreements with WGU, SNHU, and USM support seamless RN-to-BSN advancement, and graduates achieve strong employment outcomes.
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Full-time and part-time options
- 96% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Clinical rotations at local affiliates
- Evening and weekend class options
University of New England
Biddeford, ME - Private 4-year - une.edu
Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
University of New England's four-year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) is a direct-entry, campus-based program requiring no ACT or SAT for admission, as the university is test-optional. Accredited by ACEN and approved by the Maine State Board of Nursing, the curriculum blends liberal arts with nursing theory and practice, covering adult health, maternal/child nursing, mental health, pharmacology, and community health. Students complete over 550 clinical hours at top facilities like Maine Medical Center, plus simulation labs and interprofessional education. The program reports a 98% first-time NCLEX pass rate (2024). Unique study-abroad options in Morocco or Spain, guaranteed clinical placement, and scholarships support success.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Maine State Board of Nursing accredited
- No entrance exam required
- Test optional
- 4-Year program
- 98% licensure pass rate
- 3.2 GPA minimum
- 550 clinical hours
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
Maine College of Health Professions
Lewiston, ME - Private 4-year - mchp.edu
Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (RN Program)
Campus Based - Visit Website
Maine College of Health Professions offers an Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (RN) program in Lewiston, designed to prepare students for NCLEX-RN licensure in just four semesters. The curriculum integrates anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, medical-surgical, mental health, maternal-child, and community health nursing. Students gain practical skills in advanced simulation labs and complete clinical rotations across maternity, pediatrics, critical care, and rehabilitation settings. Interprofessional education and a required community service experience enrich learning, culminating in a one-on-one preceptorship with an experienced RN. ACEN accreditation underscores program quality. NCLEX pass rates for recent cohorts have been strong: 94% in 2022, 100% in 2023, and 93.75% in 2024. Graduates are well-prepared for hospital, long-term care, and community health nursing careers.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Interprofessional education every semester
- Community service experience required
- One-on-one RN preceptorship
- Prepares for RN licensure
- Diverse clinical rotations
Kennebec Valley Community College
Fairfield, ME - Public 2-Year - kvcc.me.edu
Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Visit Website
Kennebec Valley Community College's Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) offers a comprehensive curriculum blending classroom theory, lab practice, simulation, and clinical experiences. Students master the nursing process, patient assessment, and evidence-based care across the wellness-illness continuum. Graduates are eligible for the NCLEX-RN and pursue careers in hospitals, clinics, home health, and community agencies. The program is accredited by ACEN and approved by the Maine State Board of Nursing. Admission requires the TEAS entrance exam, and criminal background check. Recent NCLEX pass rates are impressive: 94.12% in 2022 and 96.43% in 2023. LPNs may enter via a bridge track with prerequisites and a minimum GPA of 2.5.
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Maine State Board of Nursing (MSBN) accredited
- 2 concentration options
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Combines classroom, lab, simulation, and clinical learning
- Clinical experiences in a variety of health care settings
- Criminal background check required
- Exposure to infectious disease risk disclosed
Associate - LPN to ADN
Campus Based - Visit Website
KVCC's LPN to ADN pathway offers licensed practical nurses a seamless route to registered nursing licensure. Building on existing clinical experience, the program includes health assessment, pharmacology, and patient care in diverse settings, delivered through labs, simulation, and clinical placements. The curriculum is accredited by ACEN and approved by the Maine State Board of Nursing. Applicants must complete prerequisite courses and submit ATI-TEAS exam scores. Graduates are prepared for the NCLEX-RN and may work in hospitals, clinics, and home health. KVCC boasts strong NCLEX pass rates (94.12% in 2022; 96.43% in 2023), with small class sizes and supportive faculty for working professionals.
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- LPN to ADN pathway
- ATI-TEAS exam required
Southern Maine Community College
South Portland, ME - Public 2-Year - smccme.edu
Associate - Nursing Associate Degree
Campus Based - Visit Website
Southern Maine Community College's four-semester Nursing Associate Degree blends nursing theory with general education through clinical rotations in diverse healthcare settings. Students develop patient-centered care, clinical judgment, and professional behaviors, preparing them for NCLEX-RN licensure. ATI TEAS scores are required, along with prerequisites such as Anatomy & Physiology I, English Composition, and Dosage Calculations. Recent NCLEX first-time pass rates reached 98.77% in 2024, reflecting strong preparation. The ACEN-accredited program boasts a 97% employment rate within six months and offers transfer agreements with the University of Southern Maine, University of Maine Fort Kent, and Purdue Global for bachelor's completion. Financial aid is available for eligible students.
- ACEN, Maine State Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 4-Semester program
- 97% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
- NCLEX-RN licensure exam preparation
- Four-semester program
Maine Nursing RN Programs – Diploma, ADN, and BSN Degrees
If you're thinking about starting a career as a registered nurse, Maine offers several entry-level degree pathways to help you get there. Many aspiring nurses begin with an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN), a nursing diploma, or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN). Each pathway has unique advantages, so consider which option aligns best with your career aspirations.
Comparing RN Diploma vs. LPN-to-RN vs. ADN Programs
If you're new to nursing and seeking the quickest path into the field, an Associate Degree in Nursing (ADN) is a great choice. Both the ADN and a nursing diploma can be completed in one to two years. For those with prior nursing experience, such as Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs), an LPN to RN bridge program can be an excellent option, allowing you to earn either an ADN or a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).
Common admissions requirements for ADN and diploma programs in Maine include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA, typically 2.5 or higher
- Some programs require scores from the TEAS (Test of Essential Academic Skills) or HESI Admission Assessment
For further admissions requirements and more information, check out our page on ADN degree programs.
More information on RN diplomas, LPN to RN, and ADN programs:
| Program | Estimated Tuition | Estimated Credits | Online Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| ADN | $6,000 – $15,000 | 60-72 credits | Limited online courses, primarily on-campus |
| LPN to RN | $4,000 – $10,000 | 30-45 credits | Often hybrid; some online courses |
| RN Diploma | $5,000 – $12,000 | 40-60 credits | Rarely online; primarily on-campus |
ADN, LPN to RN, and nursing diploma programs require hands-on clinical training hours under supervision in order to be eligible for RN licensure. These will need to be completed in person, even if you opt for an online or hybrid program. Not sure if you’re ready for an RN career? Consider an LPN or CNA program in Maine.
Comparing Traditional BSN vs. RN-to-BSN vs. ABSN Programs
As you explore the right nursing program, you'll find three main bachelor's degree options: the traditional BSN, RN to BSN, and accelerated BSN (ABSN). For those new to nursing without a prior bachelor's degree, the traditional BSN is the ideal choice. If you already hold a bachelor's degree in a different field, an ABSN program enables you to earn a BSN on an accelerated timeline. Meanwhile, the RN to BSN pathway is tailored for licensed, working nurses who want to complete their BSN more quickly.
Admissions requirements for BSN programs in Maine typically include:
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum GPA of 2.5-3.0
- Completion of prerequisite courses
For more information on BSN admissions requirements and more, see our BSN degrees page.
Several alternative pathways are also available to qualified students who want to pursue a BSN. Compare your options below:
| Program | Length | Estimated Tuition | Entrance Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional BSN | 4 years (120-126 credits) | $20,000 – $50,000 | First-time college students |
| RN to BSN | 1-2 years (30-35 credits) | $10,000 – $20,000 | Licensed RNs with an ADN |
| ABSN | 12-18 months (50-60 credits) | $25,000 – $40,000 | Non-nursing bachelor’s degree holders |
RN to BSN
For RN bridge programs visit:
As a working nurse, the easiest way to get a BSN is through a Maine RN to BSN. These bridge programs are available to any nurse who has their RN license and an ADN (plus usually a few years of experience). While a traditional BSN program usually takes four years to complete, an RN to BSN program only takes about two years.
Accelerated BSN (ABSN)
Maine ABSN programs are available for students who have a bachelor’s degree in a non-nursing subject. These types of programs work with the student’s existing education to deliver a pathway to a BSN within a year or two.
Advanced Practice RN & Nurse Practitioner Programs
For many aspiring nurses, graduate school is the key to advancing their careers. Options like a Master's of Science in Nursing (MSN), a Nurse Practitioner (NP) program, a bridge program to enter advanced practice, or a doctorate degree such as a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) offer pathways to higher salaries, greater autonomy, and broader job opportunities. Typically, applicants to nursing graduate programs must have at least a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) and a current RN license.
Earning a graduate-level degree in nursing opens the door to numerous Advanced Practice Registered Nursing (APRN) roles, leadership roles, and even careers in academia or research. Read more about APRN pathways in Maine:
- Maine Nurse Practitioner Programs
- Maine MSN Program
- Maine RN to MSN Programs
- Maine Post Master’s Nursing Certificate Programs
- Maine DNP Programs
See Related Articles
Getting an RN License in Maine
Requirements for RN Licensure in Maine
- Completion of an accredited RN program (ADN or BSN)
- Passing the NCLEX-RN exam
- Application to the Maine Board of Nursing
- Renewal: 36 hours of CE every three years for license maintenance
Why Choose an Accredited RN Program?
The most important thing you must consider when shopping for RN programs is RN program accreditation. Accreditation is a formal review process that ensures a nursing school or program meets established quality standards. In the United States, two primary organizations accredit nursing programs: the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN) and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). If a program is not accredited, it means that if you graduate from it, you will no the able to get licensed.
Cities With Nursing Programs in Maine
List of Nursing Schools in Maine
Auburn, ME
Central Maine Community College
- Associate - Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Full-time and part-time options
- 96% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
Augusta, ME
University of Maine at Augusta
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Concentration: Holistic Nursing - Online & Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts fall/spring
- Cohort-based structure
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Holistic nursing curriculum focus
Bangor, ME
Eastern Maine Community College
- Associate - Associate in Science in Nursing (Registered Nurse)
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Rolling admissions
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts summer/fall
- 100% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
Husson University
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Senior Practicum preceptorship
- Clinical simulation centers
- Expert faculty mentors
- NCLEX-RN exam preparation
- Bachelor's - Three-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Complete in 3 years or less
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Financial aid available
- Expert faculty active in practice
- Modern simulation centers
- Transfer-friendly curriculum
Biddeford, ME
University of New England
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing, Maine State Board of Nursing accredited
- No entrance exam required
- Test optional
- 4-Year program
- 98% licensure pass rate
- 3.2 GPA minimum
- 550 clinical hours
- Prerequisite courses required
Calais, ME
Washington County Community College
- Associate - Associate of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Apply by 2026-03-20
- Selective admissions process
- Candidacy accreditation status
- Fall 2026 start date
- Application deadline March 20, 2026
- Patient-centered holistic care
- Evidence-based practice focus
Fairfield, ME
Kennebec Valley Community College
- Associate - Associate Degree in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN), Maine State Board of Nursing (MSBN) accredited
- 2 concentration options
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Combines classroom, lab, simulation, and clinical learning
- Clinical experiences in a variety of health care settings
- Criminal background check required
- Associate - LPN to ADN
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- LPN to ADN pathway
- ATI-TEAS exam required
Farmington, ME
University of Maine at Farmington
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 4-Year program
- Apply by 2021-01-31
- Starts fall
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- Residential college experience
- Live laboratory and simulation activities
- Clinical experiences at healthcare organizations
- Foundation in Science and Humanities
Fort Kent, ME
University of Maine at Fort Kent
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- 5 concentration options
- Prerequisite courses required
- High-tech simulation labs
- Patient-centered care focus
- Approved by Maine State Board of Nursing
- Annual nurse pinning ceremony
- Graduates become registered nurses
Lewiston, ME
Maine College of Health Professions
- Associate - Associate of Applied Science in Nursing (RN Program)
Campus Based - Website
- Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing accredited
- 100% licensure pass rate
- 100% job placement rate
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- State-of-the-art simulation labs
- Interprofessional education every semester
- Community service experience required
- One-on-one RN preceptorship
Orono, ME
University of Maine
- Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing
Campus Based - Website
- 6 concentration options
- 4-Year program
- Full-time and part-time options
- Starts fall/spring
- Nationally ranked BSN program
- Close-knit, student-centered experience
- Collaboration essential for nursing vitality
- Nursing driven by compassion and expertise
Portland, ME
University of Southern Maine
- Bachelor's - Nursing — Traditional Program
Campus Based - Website
- CCNE accredited
- Test optional
- 4-Year program
- Complete in four years
- Apply by 2026-02-01
- 2 start dates per year
- Starts spring/fall
- 92% licensure pass rate
South Portland, ME
Southern Maine Community College
- Associate - Nursing Associate Degree
Campus Based - Website
- ACEN, Maine State Board of Nursing accredited
- Entrance exam required
- Exams: TEAS
- 4-Semester program
- 97% job placement rate
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX
- Financial aid available
Standish, ME
Saint Joseph's College of Maine
- Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN
Campus Based - Website
- Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education accredited
- 3.0 GPA minimum
- Prerequisite courses required
- Prepares for NCLEX-RN
- State-of-the-art SIM labs
- Clinical partnerships with multiple hospitals
- Direct entry into nursing major
- Small class sizes
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