University Bookstore debuts its Academic Materials Program for fall 2024
The University of Maine Bookstore has launched a new program to make required course materials more affordable and accessible as students prepare for their fall 2024 courses.
The Academic Materials Program (AMP) is a course material program that provides students access to all required course materials each semester at one predictable cost of $239.99, regardless of the price for each item.
Undergraduate students are automatically enrolled and their materials are ready for them on the first day of classes — saving them time and money over shopping for the individual price of every course material they need, which could cost them more time and money. With many faculty choosing digital textbook options, course materials are delivered to a student’s online Brightspace profiles on the first day of classes, making preparing for class fast, easy and stress-free.
As a partner in higher ed, the University Bookstore has worked with faculty and publishers to develop this program, providing an equitable and affordable avenue for students to gain access to all their required course material (digital and physical) on the first day of class. Alternative options are available for students who require accommodations. Opt-outs must happen by add/drop which is the first week of the semester.
According to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System’s National Center for Educational Statistics, the average cost of a semester’s course material for the 2023-24 academic year was $500 per semester. Because of that, the University Bookstore worked hard to bring a lower cost solution to campus.
“We know how expensive and hard to source course materials are,” said Dean Graham, executive director of University Bookstore. “University Bookstore understands the pressure of shopping for, affording and accessing this content With the AMP program, the majority of students will have not only less expense but far more convenience.”
Staying current with national movements
Nationally, digital delivery is a preferred choice by both students and faculty. At UMaine, just over 75% of course materials are set to be delivered in a digital format for the fall 2024 semester. Physical materials such as lab manuals, kits and paper textbooks that are required materials are also included in the program at no extra charge. Students will pick up these materials at the University Bookstore in Memorial Union.
Graham said that students should make informed decisions on their course materials.
“Our goal in making course material more affordable means we need to be advocates for students,” he said. “If a student’s course material is minimal or a student may be part time status, it may be best for the student to opt out of the program and obtain the course material on a per course basis.”
Students can analyze their course material on the University Bookstore’s website to determine the cost of buying individually against the program price of $239.99. Bookstore staff are ready to help determine if the program is right for an individual student.
“This program is going to better support students and faculty,” Graham said. “Faculty choose the course material that they feel gives students the best chance at learning success, however at a price that is much more affordable. We’re very excited to see how UMaine students will thrive this year using AMP.”
Visit the AMP program website to learn more.