UNE vs USM

I was wondering if anyone knew which school has a better reputation. I've just been accepted into UNE and am waiting to hear on USM. I may be jumping the gun, but was just curious if anyone had any opinions on the matter if I get accepted into both. Thanks.

Actually, both schools have very good reputations, but USM is less than half the price of UNE, so it makes USM a little more attractive. The set up at UNE is a little different and I happen to think it's kinda neat. UNE's 4 year program is an associate's the first two years and then an RN-BSN where classes are held one day a week, which really appeals to a lot of people. UNE closed their traditional Bachelor's program 2 years ago. USM is a traditional Bachelor's and they also offer a RN-BSN program. ...So, if you're in a hurry to be a nurse I'd go with the UNE program (associate's) and you can actually do your RN-BSN at USM to save some money.

If you're looking for the one program that puts out the best nurse in the state of maine I'd have to say it's St. Joseph's, but I've heard they ride their students 'til their just about dead. Plus St. Joseph's is the most expensive nursing program in the state.

Actually, both schools have very good reputations, but USM is less than half the price of UNE, so it makes USM a little more attractive. The set up at UNE is a little different and I happen to think it's kinda neat. UNE's 4 year program is an associate's the first two years and then an RN-BSN where classes are held one day a week, which really appeals to a lot of people. UNE closed their traditional Bachelor's program 2 years ago. USM is a traditional Bachelor's and they also offer a RN-BSN program. ...So, if you're in a hurry to be a nurse I'd go with the UNE program (associate's) and you can actually do your RN-BSN at USM to save some money.

If you're looking for the one program that puts out the best nurse in the state of maine I'd have to say it's St. Joseph's, but I've heard they ride their students 'til their just about dead. Plus St. Joseph's is the most expensive nursing program in the state.

I graduated from USM in 1996. So I admit I am biased. USM is a state college vs UNE as a private college. USM will get you more financial aid.

Also, I've seen UNE change it's curriculum so many times I'm kind of leary of them. Just my opinion.

Also, USM is in Portland and UNE is in Biddeford. Two different cultures.

I went to USM and loved it. However, I think that students currently seem to prefer UNE. USM is a big school, in the city... lots to do, having a car makes a difference. UNE is right near the water in a small town, everything is right on campus, very pretty school, a little more elite, a lot more expensive. If money is not the issue, I might lean toward UNE. I know three or four students there right now, and they all love it. USM's students (that I know) are a little less enthused. Both of them turn out good nurses.

Thanks for the replies. I just found out this evening USM accepted me as well. I have all my prereqs done and I did a semester of nursing school already in another state. I am leaning more towards USM at this point because I can have it done in 2 years (1 1/2 if they accept my previous nursing credits).

I currently go to Usm and I really am enjoying the program. I think the teachers are great and very concerned with student's progress. I think depending on who you talk to most of the students are enthuisiastic about becoming nurses. We do clinicals at an array of places maine med, mercy, spring harbor(part of maine med), midcoast... I can't say enough about the program really....I can't wait to graduate and I feel I've gotten as good an education as possible while a student

I am at USM and have had a very mixed experience. There are instructors who care about students' progress and do a great job. There are instructors who do little. Overall, though, I'm happy with my choice: You can't beat the price. It made it feasible for me to earn a second bachelor's degree.

Price and NCLEX pass rates were big factors for me. According to the state BON, the pass rates for first-time test takers in 2006 were USM, 88.28%; St. Joseph's, 78.8%; and UNE, 73%. Best in the state: UMaine Fort Kent at 100% (and only eight people taking the test).

If you're interested, all of the pass rates are listed here.

Best in the state: UMaine Fort Kent at 100% (and only eight people taking the test).

I've noticed this before. 8 is such a small class.

This post is interesting to me. I graduate from NMCC with my ADN in May. I'm interested in doing an RN-BSN program in southern Maine. UNE appeals to me because it's 1 day a week but I might reconsider now that I've read this post. I'm going to look into USM.

I too, am a USM alum...I am going to echo what most everyone else says. I have heard good things of UNE, but USM was better for me mostly because of the price. I also think that the profs care about your success...Most of the clinical instructors are an amazing array of knowledge and even keep in touch after you graduate...the only profs I didn't care for where the ones that did the lectures, oddly enough.