Bachelor of University Studies

My experience with the Bachelor of University Studies program at the University of Maine has been incredible! It first began in 2005 with a random visit to the Hutchinson Center. I had the opportunity to speak to a wonderful man who reminded me of my own educational goals, how much I had already accomplished and how obtainable my bachelor’s degree really was. I was given credit for most all of the classes I had taken throughout my adult life – even the computer/DOS class in the early 1990s! After a few years (around 2008), I had to pause once again, challenged by the work-parent-wife-school balance.

Unfortunately, I put finishing my degree, not just on the back burner, but in the back corner of the cupboard to collect dust. I had resigned myself to be okay with this goal not being achieved. Shame on me – especially when this program allows so much flexibility! Just before I turned 50 (in 2018) and after talking to a co-worker of the same age who was going back to school, taking advantage of the Adult Degree Scholarship, I realized that the time to do this is NOW. Our daughter is grown (23) with a child of her own (our grandson Arlo, just a couple of months old). My husband and I had finally found our groove with the whole empty nest thing, and work was manageable and extremely supportive, so back to school I went! I didn’t realize how close I was to my degree; over 80 credits completed of my required 120.

From the moment I made the decision to finally finish what I started, I have been surrounded by an incredible support system – from help finding financial aid/scholarships, to understanding what I have left to take to finish my degree. EVERY department at the University of Maine has been kind, supportive and optimistic.

I love that, by December 2021 (hopefully), I will be a graduate of the University of Maine, with a Bachelor of University Studies, Division of Lifelong Learning degree. A true Maine Black Bear! This program is an opportunity for adult learners to finish what they started and achieve the long- term goal of a bachelor’s degree.

– Melanie Berry

As a military veteran, a family man, and a business leader – UMaine’s Bachelor of University Studies program, with its flexible schedule & online curriculum, has been essential to my continued educational success. This program opens up real possibilities for so many “non-traditional” students to further their education and open the door to new possibilities to better their lives. The friendly and supportive program staff are there to help you succeed. The curriculum is thought-provoking and engaging.

– Chad Caron

One of the most important and enduring facets of my life has been my education. I consider that my formal education began in 1961 when I enrolled at the University of Illinois, in Champaign. It was a wondrous experience for me at the age of 17, and the exposure to biological sciences, literature, the French language, and anthropology and other courses entirely captivated me. I had to work two jobs to put myself through school each of the two years of my attendance there. Eventually, I had to find full-time employment, and my dream of obtaining my bachelor’s degree was placed on hold for twenty-six years due to the demands of full-time employment and then raising a family. Read more from Walter Grenier.

Earning my B.U.S. gave me the confidence I needed to get a job working for the Office of Information Technology and I’ve since transitioned to working in the private sector for Tyler Technologies, Inc. Without the flexibility of the University Studies program, I may never have completed my degree and entered the workforce.

– Mason Emery
Software Developer at Tyler Technologies, Inc.

The level of support that I have received at the University of Maine’s B.U.S. program has been more than I could have asked for. From the start, the steps of transferring my previous educational credits were very easy and the process of developing a curriculum has allowed me to incorporate different facets of traditional programs that best matched my interests and career goals. As a “non-traditional” student, online courses provide the best format for my lifestyle and the course options available as a student in the Bachelor of University Studies program have never disappointed. The professors and support staff have always been accommodating. Even living outside of Maine, I have always been able to reach out with questions via email, telephone, or video chat. I began my time at the University of Maine with the goal of completing my degree through the B.U.S. program, but with the support, guidance, and encouragement from my academic adviser, I am considering pursuing a master’s degree. My only regret is that I wish I would have found this program sooner. 

– Tina Hedrick

The start of a college experience can be daunting for anyone; however, for the non-traditional student who probably has not studied for years, it can be downright frightening! Not only do we worry about academic success, but we also wonder how we will fit in with all of the traditional students and how we will balance school needs with our home lives. Fortunately, UMaine has the Division of Lifelong Learning and the Bachelor of University Studies to aid all non-traditional students. Read more from Kathy Hill.

My family and work obligations only permit me to pursue a degree on a part-time basis. The flexibility of the University Studies Program has allowed me to fulfill my educational aspirations in addition to meeting my family and work commitments.

– Jackie Jones