Accelerated and Special Programs
3+4 Agreement with New England College of Optometry
This agreement allows very highly qualified students to enter an accelerated program resulting in the OD (Doctor of Optometry). Accepted students become candidates for reserved slots in the New England College of Optometry program, and may enter the four-year graduate optometry program after only three years of undergraduate study. Acceptance to New England College of Optometry is contingent upon maintenance of an excellent undergraduate academic record while at UMaine. Upon successful completion of the initial year at New England College of Optometry, students are awarded a BS from the University of Maine. The OD is awarded by New England College of Optometry upon successful completion of three additional years of optometry study. Interested candidates should contact the UMaine Health Professions Office for application materials. Find out more about New England College of Optometry.
Doctor of Medicine (MD) — Maine Track
Tufts University School of Medicine (TUSM), in partnership with Maine Medical Center (MMC) in Portland Maine, offers a “Maine Track” for applicants who are interested in a unique, innovative curriculum that will offer clinical training experiences in Maine and expose medical students to the unique aspects of rural practice as well as training in a major tertiary medical center.
Doctor of Medicine (MD) – Maine Track Early Assurance
Tufts University School of Medicine (TUSM) also offers a Maine Track Early Assurance Program for eligible students at participating institutions in the state of Maine. The undergraduate schools currently participating in this program are: Bates College, Bowdoin College, Colby College and all University of Maine campuses. Students apply to this program during their sophomore year. Applying to this program does not preclude them from later applying regular decision to Tufts or other medical schools. Historically, UMaine students have found success in securing these limited seats.
For additional guidance on these programs, you may also want to schedule an appointment with the Health Professions Career Counselor.