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 has been dedicated to preparing teachers and serving the public good by offering affordable, high-quality education. The university emphasizes academic excellence, face-to-face instruction, and hands-on learning in the arts, sciences, and professional fields. It fosters civic responsibility, embraces diversity, and supports global engagement. By maintaining a small student body, offering need-based aid, and encouraging timely graduation, UMF remains committed to student success and community impact.

 

Historic black and white photo of 1949 gym class of women in pyramid.

Our History: Over 160 Years of Excellence in Public Higher Education

Founded in 1864 as Maine’s first public institution of higher education, the University of Maine at Farmington 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. Yet, it has never strayed from its original mission: providing a rigorous, well-rounded liberal arts education to support effective teaching, engaged citizenship, and lifelong learning.

“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.

“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.

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