AUGUSTA – The University of Maine at Augusta, a leader in distance learning for over 30 years, is proud to announce that UMA has been awarded two U.S. News Top 100 Best Online Program rankings in the categories of Best Online Bachelor’s Programs and Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans.
U.S. News conducted vigorous, in-depth evaluations of U.S. based degree programs designed to be administered online. “Highly ranked programs have strong traditional academic foundations based on student-instructor access, graduation rates, and instructor credentials. They also excel at educating distance learners while offering robust career and financial support” proclaims the U.S. News website. With a student to faculty ratio of 16:1; 29 degrees available fully online; tutoring; academic advising; career advising; job search resources; and numerous financial aid options, the University of Maine at Augusta continues to prove itself worthy of this honor.
In line with UMA’s mission to provide high-quality distance education and innovative professional programs, these outstanding rankings underscore UMA’s dedication to academic excellence and commitment to U.S. veterans. Jennifer Cushman, UMA president, shared, “University of Maine at Augusta is honored to be recognized both for our long-time expertise in online education and our strong support of veterans. We are proud of the relevance of our approach to higher education in the twenty-first century. Our historic mission to meet all populations of students where they are, to get them where they want to be, is achieved through providing workforce training for today’s economy, in multiple locations and modes, and cultivating bachelor’s and master’s level essential skills for tomorrow’s economy, like problem solving and communication.”
In addition to the Best Online Bachelor’s criteria, schools rated best for veterans have, “the best online bachelor’s degree programs that help veterans reduce the cost of school,” announced U.S. News. Vice President of Enrollment Management Jonathan Henry. “UMA is proud to again be recognized for our continued support of veterans and our strength in delivering quality higher education that is both accessible and affordable.”
UMA helps all students find ways to fund their education. Utilizing the broad range of financial aid resources available, such as federal grants, the Pine Tree Pledge and the UMA 10K programs, over 80 different scholarships, and more, many students end up paying zero tuition. Qualifying active and veteran students can apply for all the financial aid options above, as well as the Montgomery G.I. Bill® or Post 9/11 G.I. Bill®. Jamie Santiago, Director of Financial Aid at UMA advises,“to be considered for the maximum amount of financial aid possible, it is important to submit your Free Application for Federal Student Aid at studentaid.gov as early as you can.” To learn more about financial aid options, please visit https://www.uma.edu/financial.
Since its founding in 1965 when a simple “Welcome Veterans” sign encouraged Vietnam-era veterans to enroll, UMA has continued a rich tradition of supporting military-experienced students. Amy Line, UMA director of Military and Veterans’ Services expressed, “we are pleased to receive the Best Online Bachelor’s Programs for Veterans again this year. UMA’s commitment to educating and providing opportunities to our military, veterans, and families continues to be a priority and it shows!” Hundreds of veterans, active military personnel, and members of the national guard now study at UMA, and all of UMA’s Admissions staff members are trained to work with the unique needs of veteran and military students. More information about military and veteran services can be found at uma.edu/veterans.
With its multiple locations and long-term expertise in online and distance learning, affordability, and dedication to student success, UMA is widely considered the university of choice for Mainers of all ages who want to attend college without uprooting their lives.
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 https://www.uma.edu/.
