The University of New England — for the 10th consecutive year — has been named as one of the nation’s top institutions of higher learning, earning a spot in The Princeton Review’s annual book “The Best 390 Colleges” in 2025.
The education services company known for its college rankings, books, and test preparation services selected higher education institutions based on information from school administrators plus input from students and school rating scores in eight categories including financial aid, admissions selectivity, and sustainable (“green”) initiatives, among others.
Only the top 15 percent of four-year colleges and universities in the United States were named to the 2025 list, “The Best 390 Colleges.”
The Princeton Review commended UNE for creating a supportive and collaborative environment for students through small class sizes, internships, and opportunities to participate in impactful research with professors who are experts in their field. The guide also highlighted the robust, cross-disciplinary experiential learning opportunities available to students of all academic programs and praised the University’s location and proximity to the ocean — “boasting scenic, coastal campuses on both sides of the Atlantic” — as a key attribute for students, particularly for those enrolled in marine-focused majors.
UNE President James Herbert said that inclusion in the guide speaks to UNE’s efforts to provide transformational educational experiences that position students for lifelong success.
“This ranking is a testament to UNE’s commitment to putting student success at the forefront of everything we do,” Herbert remarked. “By providing hands-on educational and research experiences, academic programming that reflects market demand, a diverse and welcoming campus environment, and a strong foundation for learning grounded in a commitment to free expression and open discourse, our students leave UNE fully prepared to enter the workforce, equipped with the habits of mind to make real, meaningful change in the world around them. We are honored that The Princeton Review has recognized these efforts for the past decade.”
UNE students enjoy a phenomenal return on investment regarding career readiness. Data shows that 95 percent of UNE graduates are either employed or enrolled in continuing education within one year of graduation, and UNE has been ranked the No. 1 college or university in Maine for both increasing career earnings (Brookings Institute) and for landing a job after graduation (Zippia).
Herbert added that The Princeton Review’s latest ranking reflects UNE’s ability to make strategic investments in academic programming and infrastructure, even amid the headwinds facing many higher education institutions.
Such recent investments include UNE’s new College of Business, Maine’s innovation business school, and School of Computer Science and Data Analytics, headed by world-renowned computer scientist Sylvain Jaume, Ph.D., both of which offer new majors that are preparing students for emerging careers in today’s technology and market-driven industries.
Vice President of University Admissions Scott Steinberg said continued acknowledgment by The Princeton Review reflects the dedication of UNE’s talented faculty and professional staff.
“It’s a tremendous honor for UNE to be recognized once again among the nation’s top colleges and universities,” Steinberg said. “This achievement highlights the exceptional success and outcomes of our students, reflecting the dedication and excellence of our faculty and professional staff. Their commitment ensures that our students consistently receive a first-rate education and impactful experiences, sustaining this level of excellence year after year.”
In November, The Princeton Review named UNE as one of the nation’s most environmentally responsible colleges for the seventh consecutive year, listing the University on its annual “Guide to Green Colleges” for 2024. This year, UNE was labeled one of the country’s top 50 eco-friendly colleges and universities.
The green rankings were based on survey data of 683 institutions concerning sustainability-related institutional policies, practices, and programs; healthy and sustainable campus qualities of life; and student feedback on topics ranging from academic offerings and campus initiatives to career preparation for sustainability-focused jobs.
UNE was also included in The Princeton Review’s 2024 Best Colleges: Northeast list.
