UMA’s enrollment growth is fueled by record student retention, rising new student numbers, and a continued commitment to access and affordability.
AUGUSTA – The University of Maine at Augusta saw double-digit growth in its spring 2025 entering class, driven by strong recruitment, improved retention and the appeal of its academic programs. Overall enrollment grew, with notable increases in new undergraduate, graduate and transfer students. Continuing graduate student enrollment surged, and UMA’s commitment to military and veteran students was reflected in steady growth within that population.
- Overall enrollment at UMA increased by 1.8%, serving 3,584 students this spring.
- New undergraduate enrollment grew by 18.3%, adding 57 more students compared to last year.
- New traditional-age (18-24) student enrollment surged 32.6% and new non-traditional (25+) students jumped 12.9% demonstrating strong appeal across a broad age spectrum of learners.
- New transfer student enrollment climbed 18.5%, bolstered by an 11.7% increase in transfers from Maine Community Colleges.
- New graduate student enrollment rose by 25.0%, reflecting increased demand for advanced degrees.
- Continuing graduate enrollment escalated by 41.5%, underscoring improved retention at the graduate level.
- UMA’s Prison Education Program partnership with the Maine Department of Corrections continues to grow, with 165 current or formerly incarcerated students taking classes, a 13.8% increase.
- Active military and veteran student enrollment rose by 8.8%, demonstrating the university’s longstanding commitment to supporting military and veteran members.
Spring enrollment was also strengthened by a record 85% retention rate among existing students. The university’s investment in academic advising highlights the impact of meaningful connections and student support from faculty and professional advisors.
“It is affirming to know that UMA’s mix of academic programs, accessibility and affordability is helping a growing number of Mainers meet their career goals and our state’s workforce needs,” said Jonathan Henry, Vice President of Enrollment Management and Marketing.
Enrollment across the University of Maine System continued its upward trajectory in the spring 2025 semester, marking the fourth consecutive term of year-over-year growth. With 24,594 students enrolled, UMS has reached its highest spring enrollment since 2021 – a testament to the system’s commitment to affordability, access, and student success.
As UMA continues to build on this momentum, the university remains focused on expanding access, enhancing student support and strengthening partnerships that align with Maine’s workforce needs. Future initiatives will prioritize retention strategies, program innovation and outreach efforts to sustain enrollment growth and ensure student success. With a strong foundation in place, UMA is well-positioned to further its mission of providing high-quality, accessible education that empowers learners across the state.
UMA transforms the lives of students of every age and background across the state of Maine and beyond through access to high-quality distance and on-site education, excellence in student support, civic engagement and professional and liberal arts programs. For more information, please visit uma.edu.
