General Information

UNIVERSITY OF MAINE AT MACHIAS

The University of Maine at Machias, a regional campus of the University of Maine, awards baccalaureate degrees, associate degrees and certificates. It is regionally accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges as part of the University of Maine. Established in 1909, UMM is the easternmost university campus in the United States. It is located at the top of Machias Bay, the site of the first naval battle of the Revolutionary War, where, in June 1775, local patriots captured the British warship Margaretta. The area’s bountiful natural resources, its Yankee traditions, and its rich environmental, recreational, cultural, and education traditions inform the campus.

MISSION

Through our Environmental Liberal Arts core, distinctive baccalaureate programs, and student-centered community, the University of Maine at Machias creates enriching educational opportunities that prepare graduates for professional success and lifelong engagement with the world. UMM embodies an active community of diverse learners who share a commitment to exploration, leadership, collaboration, and interdisciplinary problem solving. Inspired by our unique coastal location, UMM’s creative energy, applied research, and community engagement enhance the social, cultural, economic, and natural environments of the Downeast region and the State of Maine.

The University of Maine at Machias is a regional campus of the University of Maine and a member of the University of Maine System.

VISION

UMM is Maine’s Coastal University. Our location on the Bold Coast-including the land and sea, communities and natural ecosystems-provides the context for a unique learning and living experience. UMM’s distinctive, high quality education centers on engaging students in the scientific, cultural, economic and social inquiry prompted by Maine’s Bold Coast region. We provide students with active learning opportunities and leadership development, featuring close mentoring and tight community connections. Students are engaged in intellectually rigorous and innovative campus and community experiences, including academically integrated campus service, community engagement, social diversity, mentored research, and professional internships.

PURPOSE

All aspects of the University’s life and mission are greatly influenced by the proximity of the campus to the ocean and the surrounding forests, lakes, and streams. The unique nature of this location fosters sensitivity toward the natural environment and offers unusual field experiences for students in science, recreation management, fine arts, and teacher education programs. The use of the area’s natural resources in its academic and student life programs provides UMM students with a distinctive education.

Characterized by warmth and personal concern for each individual, UMM emphasizes the importance of relationships among people and connections among areas of knowledge. Its goal is to help students develop the qualities necessary for self-confidence, informed judgment, effective communication, cooperative problem solving, and ethical behavior. Individuals develop the additional abilities needed for expanding their horizons, responding to change, learning throughout life, and reaching the potential required for personal success, leadership, and service.

UMM conducts applied research relevant to its instructional role and the needs of the region, and provides public service programs, cultural opportunities, consulting services, and educational leadership for the area.

While as a regional university, UMM carries a primary responsibility for serving the educational, cultural, and public needs of this area of the State, its high quality educational programs, excellent faculty, and special location attract students from throughout Maine, the United States, and the world.