Maine’s Learner-Centered R1 University

Learner-Centered R1

At UMaine, learning happens through discovery

From day one, our learners work alongside internationally recognized faculty in cutting-edge research facilities — and they put knowledge to work across Maine’s extraordinary living laboratories.

This Could be Your Classroom

A forest, coastline, 3D printing lab, working farm, stage, or research vessel.

At Maine’s land, sea, and space grant university, learning isn’t confined to four walls.

Academic Programs Research Campus Improvements

Experience Our Learner-Centered R1

Showcase Month, October 2026

This October, we’re opening our doors and inviting everyone to explore.

Tour spaces where the future is being built, meet faculty and students pushing the boundaries of discovery, and explore research shaping Maine and the world. Experience what happens when the resources of an R1 university are placed within reach of every learner.

Current students, future Black Bears, alumni, families, and members of the Maine community: come see what’s next.

An illustrated collage showing research, farms, 3D printing, the ocean, a bear in the forest and an easel.

Can’t Miss Experiences

A photo of the new GEM building nearing the end of construction.

GEM Open House

You have to see GEM firsthand to understand the scale of its 3D printing capabilities. GEM exemplifies what it means to be a learner-centered R1 university, where learners study alongside researchers discovering solutions to some of the nation’s toughest problems.

October 2

October 17

October 23

A photo of the SAWIC nearing the end of construction.

SAWIC Open House

UMaine is a leading aquaculture research hub, and the newly established Sustainable Aquaculture Workforce and Innovation Center is enabling discovery and developing talent to ensure Maine’s working waterfronts have a sustainable future.

October 2

October 17

October 23

A photo of four people sitting in front of a tree, smiling for the camera

Fall Open House

Future Black Bears are invited to experience what it means to study at a learner-centered R1, with tours available of our new research and learning spaces.

October 17