USM Early College Mission Statement

The University of Southern Maine Early College Program strives to accelerate high school students’ academic growth, and connect them to college-level learning and career preparation. Through rigorous liberal arts and pre-professional coursework, our programs develop students’ critical thinking skills, challenge them to communicate effectively, and inspire them to problem-solve and work collaboratively. With these opportunities for post-secondary credit attainment, we endeavor to facilitate successful transitions from high school to college, to empower students in their academic and civic lives, and to increase access to higher education throughout the state of Maine.

Female student sits at desk, typing on laptop, looking up at instructor off-camera.

Are Early College Courses a Good Fit for Me?

Taking Early College courses is one of many ways students can challenge themselves academically and explore the college environment. Enrolling in Early College courses at USM earns you real college credit, established on a real USM transcript. While this is an amazing opportunity that can offer a lot of benefits, it’s also an experience students should take seriously.

Here are some helpful questions to ask yourself or discuss with your family and/or school counselor…

  • What is my motivation for participating in this program?
  • Do I feel academically prepared to take on college-level work?
  • Can I effectively balance college courses with my other responsibilities, in and out of school?
  • Do I have enough time in my schedule for an additional class and homework?
  • Am I prepared to communicate with my professors and advocate for myself when needed?
  • Do I have the flexibility to navigate two different academic calendars (HS and USM)?

Two Ways to Participate at USM:

On-Campus/Online:

The On-Campus/Online Early College program allows high school students to take USM courses on the Portland or Gorham campuses or online through Brightspace. Courses are taught by USM faculty and may include a mix of Early College students and currently enrolled USM undergraduates. By taking courses through this program, students can earn college credit while gaining firsthand experience with navigating campus and the expectations of college-level coursework. With hundreds of courses available across a wide range of subjects during the fall, spring, and summer terms, students have the flexibility to explore academic interests and begin working toward future educational goals.

Student walks bike along path on Portland campus.

Concurrent Enrollment at Your High School:

USM’s Concurrent Enrollment program allows high school students to take USM courses taught by a Concurrent Enrollment instructor (a teacher from the student’s high school) in their familiar, supportive high school environment. Concurrent Enrollment instructors work with USM faculty to ensure the college courses delivered in Maine high schools are consistent with the content and quality of on-campus courses offered at USM. Students experience the rigor of college-level coursework while continuing to have access to the support and resources offered by their high schools. All credits earned in a Concurrent Enrollment course can be transferred to the University of Maine-System.

Note: Not all high schools offer Concurrent Enrollment courses with USM. Please connect with your high school counselor to learn what options are available at your school.

Concurrent Enrollment teacher stands in front of chalkboard teaching to a room of students.

For comprehensive information on all Early College opportunities, policies, procedures, and updates across the system, please visit the University of Maine System Early College website.

University of Maine-System Early College