A bird's eye view shot of the campus.

History and Mission

The University of Maine at Farmington is more than just a college — it's where you discover your purpose.

Since 1864, the University of Maine at Farmington (UMF) has been dedicated to preparing teachers, serving the public good, and providing affordable, high-quality education. What began as Maine’s first public institution for teacher preparation has evolved into a comprehensive public university known for academic excellence, personalized learning, and a strong commitment to student success. By maintaining a close-knit campus community, offering generous financial aid, and emphasizing timely graduation, UMF ensures that higher education remains accessible and impactful.

Today, UMF combines the strengths of a liberal arts education with hands-on, experience-based learning in the arts, sciences, education, and professional fields. Students learn through close collaboration with faculty, meaningful research, internships, fieldwork, and community engagement. Rooted in the natural beauty and heritage of western Maine, the University fosters civic responsibility, embraces diverse perspectives, and encourages global engagement. Guided by a tradition of public service and innovation, UMF prepares graduates to lead purposeful lives and make meaningful contributions to their communities, professions, and the world.

As a premier teacher education and public liberal arts college in the state of Maine, the University of Maine at Farmington prepares students for engaged citizenship, enriching professional careers, and an enduring love of learning.
Black and white image from 1940 of a teacher reaching in front of children

Our History: Over 160 Years of Excellence

Founded in 1864 as Maine’s first public institution of higher education, the University of Maine at Farmington (UMF) began as the Western State Normal School, dedicated to preparing teachers through a strong liberal arts foundation. Starting with just 31 students in a modest attic classroom, the school soon moved to its first permanent home—now Merrill Hall.

Over time, UMF evolved from a small teachers’ college into a distinguished public university. Since joining the University of Maine System in 1968, it has expanded its academic programs to include the arts, sciences, education, and health fields.

Our Core Values

At UMF, Core Values describe our actions when no one is looking. Living UMF’s Core Values every moment of every day helps us create and maintain a culture of success.

Inquiry

We value all our people, embrace our differences, and encourage critical thinking to create a culture of inquiry and civil dialogue.

Innovation

We consistently search for new and exciting processes, methods, and ideas to positively infuse innovation into everything – our culture, curriculum, campus workplace, and student experience.

Collaboration

We build strength through collaboration in our teaching, research, and service as well as partnerships with the wider community.

Resilience

We change, adapt, and transform to meet the ever- changing needs of the University, and those who work and study here, and society beyond the campus boundaries, to help ensure the well-being of all.

Global Perspective

We have a global mindset, and we recognize that we live in a globally connected world with enormous possibilities that we seek to pursue.

“Best Value School”

The University of Maine at Farmington has been ranked a Top 10 Best Value School in the Regional Colleges – North category by U.S. News & World Report for 2025, coming in at #8.

U.S. News evaluates value based on academic strength, overall cost, and the amount of need-based financial aid awarded. UMF stood out for its commitment to making a high-quality college education accessible and affordable to students and families.

The Regional Colleges – North category includes institutions across 11 Northeastern states that prioritize the undergraduate experience.

“Most Transfer-Friendly College in the Nation”

The University of Maine at Farmington has been recognized by Phi Theta Kappa—the official honor society for community colleges—as one of the Most Transfer-Friendly Colleges in the nation. UMF earned a place on Phi Theta Kappa’s 2024 Transfer Honor Roll for its commitment to creating seamless transfer pathways and outstanding support for community college students transitioning to a four-year degree.

Phi Theta Kappa serves over 4.3 million members across nearly 1,300 chapters in 11 countries, celebrating academic excellence and helping students succeed in their educational journeys.

UMF Ranked #5 “Top Performer in Social Mobility”

The University of Maine at Farmington has been named a Top Performer in Social Mobility by U.S. News & World Report, ranking #5 among Regional Colleges – North in 2025. UMF is the only public institution of its kind in New England to appear in the Top 10 in this category.

This recognition highlights UMF’s commitment to transforming lives through accessible, affordable education. UMF enrolls and graduates a high percentage of Pell Grant recipients, who typically come from families earning under $50,000 annually. These students benefit from UMF’s supportive environment and strong academic programs, which help them graduate and thrive beyond college.

Three-Year Strategic Plan

Reimagining the University: UMF’s Three-Year Strategic Plan (AY 2026–27 to 2028–29) outlines the university’s vision for strengthening enrollment, enhancing student success, expanding academic opportunities, and preparing graduates for meaningful careers. Building on UMF’s tradition of public liberal arts and teacher education, the plan focuses on innovation, career readiness, and creating sustainable pathways for future growth.

View Strategic Plan

A 2024-2025 “Military Friendly Schools Gold Award” Recipient

— Military Friendly

A 2024-2025 Top 20 College for Skiing & Winter Sports
— U.S. News & World Report

A 2024 “Top Green College”
— Princeton Review Guide to Green Colleges: 2024 Edition