University of New England
Biddeford, United States
University of New England
Biddeford, United States
Founded
1831
Institution Type
Private
Total Undergraduates
3,884
Student-Faculty Ratio
11:1
Discover the University of New England
Discover the University of New England
The University of New England (UNE) is a private research university with its main campus in Biddeford, Maine, and additional campuses in Portland, Maine, and Tangier, Morocco. Classified as an R2 Doctoral University with high research activity by the Carnegie Classification, UNE is Maine's largest independent university and the state's largest educator of health care professionals.
UNE offers more than 80 undergraduate, graduate, online, and professional degree programs organized across six colleges and an honors college. The university is recognized for excellence in the health and life sciences, marine and environmental programs, and emerging fields such as business and computer science.
With a 540-acre coastal Biddeford campus featuring scenic shoreline where the Saco River flows into the Atlantic Ocean, UNE provides a distinctive learning environment. The Princeton Review has named UNE one of the nation's best colleges for 11 consecutive years, and 95% of UNE undergraduates are employed or pursuing further education within one year of graduation.
Key Milestones
- 1831: Westbrook Seminary founded in Portland, establishing the institution's earliest historical roots.
- 1939: College Séraphique founded in Biddeford, later becoming St. Francis College and the precursor to UNE's Biddeford campus.
- 1978: St. Francis College and the New England College of Osteopathic Medicine merged to form the University of New England.
- 1996: Westbrook College merged with UNE, adding the Portland campus and expanding the university's academic offerings.
Academic Colleges and Programs
Academic Colleges and Programs
The University of New England is organized into six distinctive colleges plus an Honors College, combining to offer more than 80 undergraduate, graduate, online, and professional degrees. Programs emphasize hands-on learning, interdisciplinary engagement, and career readiness across the health sciences, marine sciences, liberal arts, and business.
College of Arts and Sciences
Offers more than 30 undergraduate majors ranging from aquaculture and aquarium science to sport management, plus master's programs in biological sciences and marine sciences.
- Marine Sciences
- Biological Sciences
- Environmental Science
College of Osteopathic Medicine
The only osteopathic medical school in New England, recognized for excellence in geriatric, rural, and primary care education. Now housed in the Harold and Bibby Alfond Center for Health Sciences on the Portland campus.
- Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine (D.O.)
- Master of Public Health
- Biomedical Sciences
Westbrook College of Health Professions
A model for interdisciplinary health and wellness education, featuring the Interprofessional Simulation and Innovation Center with high-tech patient simulators for clinical training.
- Nursing
- Physician Assistant
- Occupational Therapy
College of Dental Medicine
Maine's only dental college, housed in a state-of-the-art Oral Health Center on the Portland campus. The college addresses the critical need for dental care providers in Maine and across New England.
- Doctor of Dental Medicine (D.M.D.)
- Dental Hygiene
- Oral Health Sciences
College of Business
Engages students in experiential learning opportunities and prepares them for rewarding careers and leadership positions across private, nonprofit, and professional organizations.
- Business Administration
- Supply Chain Management
- Economics
College of Professional Studies (UNE Online)
Enhances and expands student learning opportunities through innovative online educational experiences, partnering with the university's other colleges to maintain the highest academic standards.
- Master of Social Work (Online)
- Master of Education (Online)
- Graduate Certificate Programs
Admission Requirements
Admission Requirements
Undergraduate Admission
- ApplicationCommon Application or UNE Application
- TranscriptsOfficial high school transcripts required
- Standardized TestsTest optional/flexible for most programs
- Average GPA3.2 (enrolled freshmen average)
- Application FeeNo application fee
Graduate Admission
- ApplicationOnline application through UNE Graduate Admissions
- TranscriptsOfficial transcripts from all institutions attended
- English ProficiencyTOEFL or IELTS required for international applicants
- Credential EvaluationInternational transcripts must be evaluated for U.S. equivalency
- Additional MaterialsVary by program; check specific program requirements
Non-binding early action for undergraduate applicants seeking early notification. Decisions released by January 15.
Priority application deadline for undergraduate admission. Enrollment deposit is also due by May 1 and is refundable until that date.
Applications submitted after the Early Action deadline are reviewed on a rolling, space-available basis.
Deadlines vary by graduate and professional program. Check individual program pages for specific dates.
Tuition and Scholarships
Tuition and Scholarships
As a private university, UNE charges the same tuition rate for all students regardless of state residency. The university is committed to affordability and offers generous scholarships, grants, and a Tuition-Free Program for eligible students with high financial need and strong academic records.
| Cost Category | Annual Cost (All Students) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition & Fees | USD 45,900 | USD 45,900 |
| Room & Board | USD 16,700 | USD 16,700 |
| Books & Supplies | USD 1,500 (est.) | USD 1,500 (est.) |
| Health Insurance | USD 3,907 | USD 3,907 |
| Total | ~USD 68,007 | ~USD 68,007 |
Tuition-Free Program (TFP)
Starting fall 2025, eligible graduating high school students from all states with a high school GPA of 3.85 or greater who demonstrate high financial need may attend UNE tuition-free for up to four years of undergraduate study.
- Eligibility GPA: 3.85+ high school GPA
- Renewal Requirement: Maintain 3.5 cumulative GPA
- Duration: Up to 4 years of full-time undergraduate study
Merit-Based Scholarships & Financial Aid
UNE provides generous grants and scholarships that do not need to be repaid. Approximately 56% of enrolled undergraduates receive grants or scholarships, with an average aid amount of USD 22,505.
- Students Receiving Aid: 68% of first-year students receive need-based aid
- Average Aid Amount: USD 22,505
- International Students: Merit-based aid available for international applicants
Campus and Facilities
Campus and Facilities
UNE's 540-acre Biddeford campus offers more than 4,000 feet of scenic shoreline where the Saco River flows into the Atlantic Ocean. The university also maintains a Portland campus for the health sciences and a study-abroad campus in Tangier, Morocco, providing students with diverse learning environments across three continents.
A 105,000-square-foot athletics and learning complex featuring an NHL-size ice hockey rink, basketball court, fitness center, and multi-purpose practice courts.
A cutting-edge facility for marine science education and research, including the Marine Animal Rehabilitation Clinic and field course support for coastal ecosystem monitoring.
A 110,000-square-foot facility on the Portland campus that brings together all of UNE's health professions programs, supporting interprofessional health education.
Housing and Dining
Residential Life
UNE has a three-year residency requirement for undergraduates. Housing assignments are made based on application date, and students can form roommate groups.
- Traditional residence halls and upperclassman housing options
- Living Learning and Themed Living Communities available
- Nor'easter Express transit service to downtown Biddeford and Saco
Dining and Student Life
Ripich Commons serves as UNE's central student hub, offering dining services and gathering spaces for the campus community.
- Ripich Commons student hub with dining and social spaces
- George and Barbara Bush Center with historical exhibits
- Ram Island research station for marine science field work
Student Life at UNE
Student Life at UNE
Being part of the UNE community means being involved. Students enjoy a close-knit, welcoming campus culture with numerous ways to engage through clubs, organizations, athletics, and community service. Over 30% of incoming first-year students are the first in their families to pursue a college degree, contributing to UNE's diverse and inclusive environment.
Location: Biddeford, Maine
Location: Biddeford, Maine
Life in Biddeford, Maine
Biddeford is a revitalized coastal city in southern Maine, located just 18 miles south of Portland and approximately 90 minutes from Boston. The suburban atmosphere offers the amenities of city life without the constant hustle, while the stunning Maine coastline provides a unique backdrop for study and recreation.
Coastal Setting
UNE's campus sits at the mouth of the Saco River where it meets the Atlantic Ocean, offering 4,000+ feet of shoreline and access to Ram Island for marine research.
Proximity to Portland
Maine's largest city is just a short drive away, offering a thriving food scene, cultural attractions, and professional opportunities in healthcare and business.
Access to Boston
Boston is approximately 90 minutes south by car, with the Saco train station providing convenient rail connections for weekend trips and internship opportunities.
Outdoor Recreation
Southern Maine offers four-season outdoor activities including hiking, skiing, kayaking, and beach exploration, making it ideal for students who love nature and adventure.
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Career Outcomes and Alumni Network
Top Employer Sectors and Organizations
Practical Information
Practical Information
For International Students
UNE is approved by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to enroll international students and issue F-1 student visa documentation. The university complies with all SEVP regulations.
International applicants whose native language is not English must submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. All international transcripts must include English translations and be evaluated for U.S. equivalency.
UNE offers merit-based aid for international applicants. Students must demonstrate ability to meet expenses for visa purposes by submitting a Certificate of Finances and valid passport.
Key Contacts
- +90 5435286292
- +44 7868736984
- corporate@uni4edu.com
- info@uni4edu.com
University Rankings
University Rankings
The University of New England consistently earns recognition from major ranking organizations for its academic quality, graduate outcomes, and student experience. UNE has been named to The Princeton Review's Best Colleges list for 11 consecutive years and was included on the Wall Street Journal's 2026 Best Colleges in the U.S. national list.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Health Professions | Maine's #1 provider of health care professionals, home to the state's only medical college, dental college, PA program, and pharmacy school. | #1 in Maine |
| Career Earnings | Ranked by the Brookings Institution as the #1 Maine college for increasing career earnings after graduation. | #1 in Maine (Brookings) |
| Job Placement | Listed by Zippia as the top college in Maine for job placement, with 95% of graduates employed or in further education within one year. | #1 in Maine (Zippia) |
| Student Access & Earnings | Carnegie Foundation 2025 classification recognized UNE graduates earn nearly USD 20,000 more annually than regional peers without college degrees. | Top Tier (Carnegie 2025) |
Features
The University of New England's Biddeford Campus is a 540-acre, waterfront campus located where the Saco River meets the Atlantic Ocean, featuring prominent facilities such as the Harold Alfond Center for Health Sciences, Marine Science Center, and Harold Alfond Forum for athletics. The campus hosts undergraduate students and professional programs, offering robust academic and research facilities, including Maine's only College of Osteopathic Medicine. Student life features include extensive recreation facilities, diverse dining options, and a dedicated center for the study of the Bush family legacy
Featured Programmes
Average Time To Receive Acceptance Letter
March - November
Location
Situated along the scenic coast of southern Maine, UNE's Biddeford campus offers stunning views and easy access to beautiful beaches and outdoor activities. The university's proximity to Portland, Maine's largest city, allows students to enjoy urban amenities, including restaurants, shopping, and cultural attractions. The region is known for its rich maritime heritage, vibrant arts scene, and recreational opportunities, making it an ideal setting for students seeking both academic excellence and a fulfilling lifestyle.
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