Analysis
University of Maine's finance program delivers solid middle-of-the-pack outcomes with notably less debt than many alternatives. Starting at $52,876, graduates earn slightly above Maine's median for finance programs (60th percentile statewide) while carrying just $24,520 in debt—a debt-to-earnings ratio of 0.46 that's manageable by most standards. That debt load is essentially on par with both state and national benchmarks, making this one of the more affordable routes to a finance career in Maine.
The earnings trajectory shows steady progression, with graduates reaching $57,333 by year four. While these numbers place the program at the 46th percentile nationally—neither impressive nor concerning—context matters: Maine isn't a finance hub like New York or Charlotte, so these earnings reflect regional salary norms. For a family-accessible state flagship (96% admission rate, 22% Pell grant recipients), the program delivers predictable outcomes without the premium debt that often comes with private alternatives.
The calculation here is straightforward. If your child plans to stay in Maine or the Northeast more broadly, this program offers a legitimate finance credential at a reasonable cost. The earnings won't match what graduates from target schools in major financial centers command, but the debt burden won't follow them around for a decade either. For Maine residents paying in-state tuition, it's a sensible foundation for launching a finance career.
Where University of Maine Stands
Earnings vs. debt across all finance and financial management services bachelors's programs nationally
Earnings Distribution
How University of Maine graduates compare to all programs nationally
Earnings Over Time
How earnings evolve from 1 year to 4 years after graduation
| School | 1 Year | 4 Years | Growth |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Maine | $52,876 | $57,333 | +8% |
| University of Pennsylvania | $122,698 | $206,646 | +68% |
| Washington University in St Louis | $102,814 | $152,625 | +48% |
| Georgetown University | $106,218 | $126,672 | +19% |
| Southern Methodist University | $83,159 | $113,839 | +37% |
Compare to Similar Programs in Maine
Finance and Financial Management Services bachelors's programs at peer institutions in Maine (6 total in state)
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| School | In-State Tuition | Earnings (1yr) | Earnings (4yr) | Median Debt | Debt/Earnings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| $12,606 | $52,876 | $57,333 | $24,520 | 0.46 | |
| $10,920 | $47,393 | — | $20,500 | 0.43 | |
| National Median | — | $53,590 | — | $23,332 | 0.44 |
Career Paths
Occupations commonly associated with finance and financial management services graduates
Financial Managers
Treasurers and Controllers
Investment Fund Managers
Chief Executives
Chief Sustainability Officers
General and Operations Managers
Personal Financial Advisors
Financial and Investment Analysts
Financial Risk Specialists
Budget Analysts
Business Teachers, Postsecondary
Insurance Underwriters
About This Data
Source: U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard (October 2025 release)
Population: Graduates who received federal financial aid (Title IV grants or loans). At University of Maine, approximately 22% of students receive Pell grants. Students who did not receive federal aid are not included in these figures.
Earnings: Median earnings from IRS W-2 data for graduates who are employed and not enrolled in further education, measured 1 year after completion. Earnings are pre-tax and include wages, salaries, and self-employment income.
Debt: Median cumulative federal loan debt at graduation. Does not include private loans or Parent PLUS loans borrowed on behalf of students.
Sample Size: Based on 74 graduates with reported earnings and 73 graduates with debt data. Small samples may not be representative.