Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Maine Studies Program?
The Maine Studies Program at the University of Maine offers students the opportunity to learn more about Maine through undergraduate courses and degrees. The program recognizes the value of interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approaches to understanding historical and contemporary issues such as Maine’s economy, its environment, and the state’s diverse population and cultures.
What undergraduate degrees do you offer?
There are two undergraduate degrees available. One is a Minor in Maine Studies, available to any UMaine undergraduate student enrolled in a baccalaureate degree program (including online as well as campus-based). For more information you can speak with your academic advisor or the advising office for your college. You can also complete the form found here (it’s a bit confusing) and return it, with your signature, via campus mail to the Maine Studies Program, 5774 Stevens Hall. They will sign and forward to the next appropriate person on the list.
The second degree is actually a “track” in the Bachelor of University Studies (BUS) degree, offered by UMaine’s Division of Lifelong Learning. More information on that degree can be found here on the DLL website, or by contacting their advising office at dlladvising “at” maine.edu.
Are your courses online or on campus?
Currently, all Maine Studies courses (course prefix: MES) are online. UMaine uses the “Brightspace” system to deliver course content and Zoom for online seminars and meetings. However, students may also take classes on campus if they wish, to a certain extent. This allows them to take classes from other departments that are not online. Appropriate courses at UMaine-Machias can be counted toward an MES degree with approval from an MES advisor.
Can I do courses and degrees at my own pace?
Yes and no. Maine Studies courses are offered during both fall and spring semesters as well as during summer terms. Students in a class all complete assignments on the same schedule, as set by the instructor. In other words, courses are not entirely self-paced; they are on 7-week or 14-week sessions set by the university and on course schedules set by individual instructors.
Students can take as long as they need to earn degrees as long as they do not exceed the university time limits (see the “Degree Requirements for Graduation” section in the Undergraduate Catalog).
How do I enroll in a degree?
This depends on the degree. For traditional on-campus degree programs, you can start with the UMaine Admissions Office website. For the online undergraduate BUS degree, contact the DLL Advising Office.
How do I sign up for classes?
For current students, as with your other classes, you can usually do this through MaineStreet. New undergraduate students should contact their faculty advisor or their college advising office.
If you have questions specifically about our courses, please contact the Maine Studies Coordinator (use the Contact Info page). If you are new to UMaine and wish to get more advice about enrolling, classes, financial aid, etc., we also suggest contacting the Division of Lifelong Learning Advising Center. They are friendly and helpful and can guide you to the right people and resources.
What kind of courses can I take?
The Maine Studies Program offers a number of specialized and general courses about Maine Studies. A current list can be found HERE. In addition, the program draws upon courses in several fields, including anthropology, history, women’s and gender studies, art, political science, Franco-American studies, and Native-American Studies, among others. Our course page lists many of these courses as well, although new ones are always being added.
Who usually takes Maine Studies courses?
Students who plan to work in Maine in such fields as business, government, education, health care, or social services often take our courses. Students interested in Maine more generally often find that they gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for Maine’s history, culture, and landscapes through our classes. Those with deeper interests often enroll in the Minor in Maine Studies.
How do I reach someone for more information?
Please feel free to use our Contact Us page.