The University of Southern Maine offers three bachelor's degree programs, four master's degree programs, one post-master's degree program, one certificate of graduate study, and one doctorate degree program in nursing. The undergraduate degree and graduate certificate are both offered online, though the undergraduate program is blended (both online and on campus courses). Each degree has its own requirements, but most allow students to matriculate in either the fall or spring semester. The nursing program is overseen by 35 nurses and professors, 14 of whom hold doctorate degrees. Applicants must be CPR-certified and complete a list of health requirements. In 2007, the U.S. News and World Report ranked the University of Southern Maine 95th on the list of highest-ranked nursing programs in the nation.
The University of Maine School of Nursing offers one undergraduate course of study, one R.N. Studies program, two master's degree programs and one post-master's degree certificate. The School of Nursing is lead by 24 faculty members and classified staff. In 2007, the U.S. News and World Report ranked the University of Southern Maine 141 on the list of highest-ranked nursing programs in the nation. While enrolled, nursing students can elect to join the Orono Student Nurses' Association (OSNA). This student organization allows future nurses to become involved in the surrounding community and receive mentoring.
Husson University offers one undergraduate degree, three master's degree programs and three post-master's certificates in nursing. Undergraduate applicants must have graduated from high school, having achieved a G.P.A. of 3.0 or better, must score 1350 or better on the SAT test, must complete a list of health requirements as established by Husson University, and must submit two letters of recommendation. Graduate applicants must hold a B.S.N. from an accredited school, having achieved a G.P.A. of 3.0 or better, must have completed at least one year of clinical practice, must submit three letters of recommendation, and must attend a personal interview with a School of Health staff member. Husson University allows incoming graduate students to register as special students. Special students are allowed to begin their graduate coursework without immediately declaring which degree track they plan to complete. In addition to the campus' main location, nursing students are also able to attend courses in Presque Isle and South Portland. Husson University is a private, not-for-profit school.
St. Joseph's College is a small private Catholic college located less than 20 miles outside of Portland. The college offers a combination of on campus and online nursing degrees. Students can obtain their Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree on campus. Applicants must successfully complete their high school biology and chemistry classes with a C average or better. Admission is selective. The online college provides more offerings, including one undergraduate degree, two master's degrees, two graduate certificate programs and one post-master's degree certificate. Graduate degree applicants must be licensed and submit their undergraduate transcripts. Students must have held a G.P.A. of 3.0 or better while obtaining their bachelor's degree. The Department of Nursing at St. Joseph's College is overseen by 18 faculty members. The nursing program is accredited by both the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education and the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission.