Bureau of Labor Education

The Bureau of Labor Education (BLE), established in 1966 by the 102nd Maine Legislature and the Trustees of the University of Maine, is guided by the principle that lifelong education is a necessary and vital component of a democratic society. The Bureau conducts educational programs and research on issues of interest to workers, labor unions and policy makers, topics have included: labor and employment law, labor history, labor relations, political economy, collective bargaining, arbitration and administrative hearing advocacy, mock arbitration, Robert’s Rules of Order, union officer training and leadership development. Through teaching, research and public service, the Bureau helps Maine workers and others assess their situation in relation to the global, economic, political and legal environment. The BLE offers an undergraduate Minor in Labor Studies as well as a Labor Studies Track that is part of the Bachelor of University Studies degree. Labor studies courses include LST 101 - Introduction to Labor Studies, LST 201 - Work and Labor in a Global Environment, and LST 298 - Topics in Labor Studies. For further information: umaine.edu/ble or call 207.581.4124.