Best Nursing Schools in Maine

Last Updated On Jan 7, 2025

Expert Verified: Catherine Burger, MSOL, RN, NEA-BC, LNC

8 Min Read

2025 Best Nursing Schools in Maine

Finding the right nursing school in Maine is a big step toward your career, and one of the best ways to measure a school's quality is by looking at NCLEX-RN pass rates. At registerednursing.org, we've ranked the top nursing schools in Maine based on these pass rates to help you make an informed decision. Schools with higher pass rates often provide the education and support needed to succeed on this crucial exam. Including NCLEX pass rates in our rankings gives you a clear picture of which schools prepare their students best for real-world nursing. Choosing a school with a high pass rate can set you up for success from day one. https://www.registerednursing.org/rankings-methodology/

Central Maine Community College

Auburn, ME - Public 2-Year - cmcc.edu

Associate - Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Central Maine Community College's Nursing program stands out with its Associate in Science degree, meticulously designed to pave the way for a successful nursing career. Emphasizing a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical clinical experiences, the program ensures students are well-prepared for the NCLEX-RN exam, a testament to its high pass rates. With campuses in Auburn and Damariscotta, it offers flexibility through evening and weekend classes, catering to students' varied schedules. Admission prerequisites include the TEAS exam, alongside official transcripts, ensuring candidates are ready for the rigorous curriculum focused on ethical nursing, critical thinking, and comprehensive patient care. This program is ideal for aspiring nurses seeking a solid foundation in healthcare.

Associate in Science degree
Prepares for NCLEX-RN licensure
Flexible schedule options
High NCLEX pass rates
Hands-on clinical experience
Study in Auburn or Damariscotta
Focus on ethical nursing practice
Critical thinking and patient care
Admission requires TEAS exam
Prerequisites for preparation

University of Maine at Augusta

Augusta, ME - Public 4-Year - uma.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Concentration: Holistic Nursing - Online & Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Maine at Augusta's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program stands out for its Holistic Nursing concentration, offering a unique blend of traditional and holistic care practices. This hybrid program, requiring a 3.0 GPA and recent science courses for admission, spans four years and combines online learning with clinical experiences across Maine. It prepares students for the NCLEX-RN exam with a curriculum focused on leadership, community health, and evidence-based practice, while also teaching the integration of self-care and wellness into nursing. The program's emphasis on holistic healing and diverse healthcare settings equips graduates with a comprehensive skill set for modern nursing challenges.

Hybrid program format
Holistic Nursing concentration
Prepares for NCLEX-RN
Four-year duration
3.0 GPA requirement
Recent science courses needed
Leadership and management focus
Community health emphasis
Evidence-based practice
Hands-on clinical experiences

University of Maine

Orono, ME - Public 4-Year - umaine.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of Maine offers a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program designed to equip students with the skills necessary for a successful nursing career. This campus-based program in Orono, ME, focuses on developing compassionate healthcare professionals through a curriculum that blends clinical practice with leadership training. Students can choose from various pathways, including the Traditional Nursing Pathway, and have the option to pursue minors for a more tailored educational experience. Admission is based on UMaine's undergraduate criteria, with no specific mention of ACT or SAT requirements. The program boasts a strong NCLEX-RN pass rate, reflecting its commitment to preparing graduates for the challenges of modern healthcare. Financial aid is available to help manage tuition costs, making this program accessible to aspiring nurses dedicated to making a difference in Maine's communities and beyond.

Campus-based program.
Multiple pathways available.
Focus on clinical practice.
Leadership roles emphasized.
Financial aid options.
Undergraduate admission criteria.
Tailored education options.
Serves Maine communities.
Compassion and expertise focus.
Prepares for healthcare careers.

University of New England

Biddeford, ME - Private 4-year - une.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The University of New England's Bachelor of Science in Nursing program stands out for its comprehensive curriculum and extensive clinical training, offering over 550 hours of hands-on experience. Students engage with state-of-the-art simulation labs and benefit from interprofessional education, preparing them for diverse healthcare environments. The program boasts a high NCLEX-RN pass rate, reflecting its effectiveness in equipping graduates for success. Admission requires a high school GPA of 3.2, with prerequisites in chemistry, biology, and math, but does not mandate ACT or SAT scores. Accredited by ACEN and approved by the Maine State Board, UNE's program also offers financial aid and scholarships, making it accessible to aspiring nurses.

Four-year campus program.
Over 550 clinical hours.
High NCLEX-RN pass rate.
State-of-the-art simulation labs.
Interprofessional education focus.
Covers geriatrics, pediatrics, obstetrics.
Admission requires 3.2 GPA.
Chemistry, biology, math prerequisites.
Financial aid available.
Scholarships for eligible students.

Saint Joseph's College of Maine

Standish, ME - Private 4-year - sjcme.edu

Bachelor's - Nursing, BSN

Campus Based - Visit Website

Saint Joseph's College of Maine's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program is designed for aspiring nurses seeking a robust foundation in healthcare. The program stands out with its early clinical exposure starting sophomore year and a curriculum that blends liberal arts with nursing science, fostering well-rounded professionals. Notably, it achieves a 90.63% NCLEX pass rate, reflecting the program's effectiveness. With state-of-the-art simulation labs and partnerships with top Maine hospitals, students gain hands-on experience. The program does not require ACT or SAT scores for admission, making it accessible. Small class sizes ensure personalized attention, preparing graduates for successful nursing careers.

Nursing courses start freshman year
Clinical experience begins sophomore year
NCLEX Pass Rate 90.63%
New nursing innovation center
Community health care partnerships
Clinical sites across Maine
Accredited nursing program
Hands-on simulation labs
Caring nursing faculty
Personalized mentorship approach

Husson University

Bangor, ME - Private 4-year - husson.edu

Bachelor's - Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

Husson University's Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) program in Bangor, ME, stands out for its CCNE accreditation and comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for the NCLEX-RN exam. With a remarkable 100% employment rate post-graduation, the program emphasizes hands-on clinical experiences and utilizes state-of-the-art simulation centers. Financial aid is accessible to 99% of students, ensuring a broad range of candidates can pursue their nursing ambitions. The program does not require an ACT or SAT for admission, focusing instead on a holistic review of applicants. Graduates are well-prepared for diverse healthcare settings, supported by expert faculty and a senior practicum for real-world experience.

CCNE-accredited program.
100% employment rate.
Hands-on clinical experiences.
Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam.
99% receive financial aid.
Senior practicum included.
Expert practicing faculty.
Clinical simulation centers.

Bachelor's - Three-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Campus Based - Visit Website

The Three-Year Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at Husson University offers an accelerated pathway to a nursing career, accredited by the CCNE. This program is distinguished by its focus on leadership and management, alongside rigorous clinical training to ready students for the NCLEX-RN exam. With a 100% employment rate and alumni earning between $50,000 - $80,000 annually in Maine, the program is a compelling choice. Admission does not require an ACT or SAT, making it accessible to a wide array of students. Financial aid is available for 99% of enrollees, and the curriculum benefits from expert faculty and advanced simulation technologies.

CCNE-accredited program
100% employment rate
3-year accelerated path
Hands-on clinical experiences
Expert faculty mentorship
State-of-the-art simulation centers
Prepares for NCLEX-RN exam
Leadership and management focus
Financial aid available
Alumni network of 26,000+

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*Information from: National Center for Education Statistics, IPEDS 2023 dataset.

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

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:

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Getting an RN License in Maine

The final step to becoming a registered nurse in Maine is obtaining licensure. In Maine, RN licensure requires graduating from an accredited nursing program, passing the NCLEX-RN exam, and submitting an application to the Maine State Board of Nursing along with the necessary fee. To keep your license active, you'll also need to complete continuing education requirements set by the board.

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.

List of Nursing Schools in Maine

If you're looking to start or advance your nursing career in Maine, you'll find a variety of schools offering programs to fit your needs. Below is a list of nursing schools across the state, including where they're located, what programs they offer, and links to learn more. Whether you're interested in becoming an LPN, RN, or pursuing a BSN or higher, Maine's schools have options to help you reach your goals.

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