2025-2026 Student Handbook
Read University of Maine Policies and Regulations here.
Established in 1865, the University of Maine is the flagship university of the University of Maine System. It is also the state’s designated land- grant and sea-grant institution. Within the System, UMaine has unique responsibilities for providing high quality undergraduate and graduate education programs, basic and applied research, and statewide public service outreach. Its fundamental purpose is to provide a world-class education, and, through research and outreach, help create the kind of state where citizens can put their education to work at the highest and most rewarding level.
Located in Orono between the Penobscot and Stillwater rivers and within proximity to the ocean, lakes and mountains, UMaine offers an inspiring learning environment. At the center of campus is The Mall, an open, tree-lined quadrangle. Some of the most distinctive buildings on campus border The Mall, including the Raymond H. Fogler Library the newly renovated Williams Hall with its unique arches and Stevens Hall complex including Boudreau Hall. Lord Hall offers gallery space and classroom facilities for UMaine’s art department. Class of 1944 Hall, home to UMaine’s School of Performing Arts, is considered one of the finest educational facilities of its kind in the Northeast. The Advanced Engineered Wood Composites Center is a one-of-a-kind facility where students and faculty members develop new and expanded products and processes. The Fernald Engineering Education and Design Center is a State-of-the-art facility at the center of campus. Similar examples of top-notch facilities may be found in every corner of UMaine’s 660-acre campus.
The University of Maine maintains the look and feel of a traditional New England institution of learning while featuring modern research facilities. UMaine’s undergraduate and graduate academic programs are built upon a liberal arts and sciences foundation while also featuring profession- oriented education in a wide range of disciplines, many of which are found nowhere else in the state. Because of their responsibility to teach, conduct research and serve the public, UMaine’s faculty incorporate the new knowledge they gain with classroom activities, often giving students hands-on experience in research activities, business and community assistance and public service.
Many of UMaine’s engineering, business, science, liberal arts, and natural resources programs have gained national and international respect. Some of the world’s most creative minds have been attracted to UMaine because of its reputation for excellence and accomplishment.
As a public university, the University of Maine strives to make its programs and services of the highest quality while remaining affordable and accessible. The size of the student population makes it the largest in the state, yet it is still small enough to promote a sense of familiarity among members of the campus community.
Outstanding cultural and athletic programs and opportunities exist for both active participants and spectators. Minsky Recital Hall features both high- quality performance areas and a digital recording studio for use by students and faculty. UMaine’s Museum of Art and Hudson Museum feature works and artifacts of international renown. UMaine’s Collins Center for the Arts serves as a cultural hub for much of Maine, bringing high-quality performances to the central part of the state.
The New Balance Student Recreation Center has continued to be recognized as a key student hub with outstanding programs and the newest fitness equipment. UMaine’s Alfond Sports Arena and surrounding athletic facilities are home to the state’s only NCAA Division I athletics program, including the UMaine Black Bear hockey team, the 1993 and 1999 national champions, and the highly popular UMaine women’s basketball team. Morse Field at the 10,000-seat Alfond Stadium, which opened in September 1998, is home to UMaine’s football and field hockey teams. Combined, these cultural and athletic programs and opportunities enhance the student learning experience while benefiting the people of the region and state.
In day-to-day activities as well as overall direction, the University of Maine exemplifies many of the values often identified with the State of Maine: a strong work ethic, community and state pride, self-reliance, and environmental sensitivity.
Dean Introduction
On behalf of the staff and students who work in student affairs, I welcome you to the University of Maine.
The remarkable beauty of this place, the dedication of our faculty and staff, the diversity of your fellow students all hold great promise for you. I urge you to be more than a spectator; rather, take full advantage of the opportunities here. The University of Maine can be and is a wonderful place to live, to study, and to learn.
Let me point out that as a citizen of the University of Maine community, you have both rights and responsibilities. We take seriously the assurance of these rights for every member of the community. Likewise, we expect each community member to fulfill their responsibilities. This student handbook is designed to help you understand what you can expect of the University of Maine and what the University of Maine expects of you. In particular, I wish you to take some time and familiarize yourself with the student conduct code.
Finally, remember one thing. There is someone here to help whenever you need it. Whether it be your academic advisor, a resident assistant in your residence hall, an officer at UMaine Police Department, another student, the Dean of Students, there is always someone to help. Make sure you ask.
Do good work and enjoy the University of Maine.
Andrea Gifford
Dean of Students
UMaine’s goals
Editorial Policy
The University of Maine reserves the right to revise, amend, or change items set forth in the student handbook from time to time. Accordingly, readers of the student handbook should inquire as to whether any such revisions, amendments, or changes have been made since the original date of publication.
As part of the University of Maine community, students are expected to abide by the rules, policies, and procedures of not only this Student Handbook, but also the Student Conduct Code and the Academic Integrity Policy