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Online Bachelor of University Studies (B.U.S)

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120 Credits

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Fall & Spring Entry Terms

About the Program

Work. Travel. Family. Life is busy. Don’t let that stop you from completing your degree. The Bachelor of University Studies makes the most of your existing college credit to help you earn your degree faster and cost-effectively. The program is flexible and easily integrated into your life by offering part-time study 100% online.

Here, your needs come first. UMaine provides a unique self-directed approach, allowing you to choose an academic path that matches your interests and professional goals. Our team is here every step of the way to help you finish what you started.

Visit the Bachelor of University Studies website to learn more.

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Multiple track options in an individually designed program of study and prescribed curriculums.

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Complete your undergraduate degree while preparing for a master’s degree.

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Get your first two courses for the price of one + generous scholarships.

Contact Us

Have questions about completing your degree online with UMaine? Contact a UMaineOnline advisor.

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Tessa Smith, M.S.

UMaineOnline Advisor


802.276.0474 tessa.r.smith@maine.edu

Student Experiences

Curriculum

The B.U.S. program allows students to develop a program of study that encompasses their interests and makes maximum use of their existing transfer credits.

Students must earn at least 30 credits originating from the University of Maine with at least 15 credits at the 300 level or higher.

All students must also complete the general education requirements. The complete degree requirements are in the undergraduate catalog.

The following courses are required (7 credits):

  • UST 100: Introduction to the Bachelor of University Studies (1 credit) Fall, Spring, and Summer
    Offered online in a six-week sequence
  • UST 300: Core Course in University Studies (3 credits) Fall and Spring
    Meets upper-level Writing Intensive requirement
  • UST 499: Senior Capstone (3 credits) Fall, Spring, and Summer
    Meets General Education Capstone requirement

Select one of four existing tracks (24 credits):

Admissions

Students requesting readmission after five or more years of absence may be treated as transfer students when determining credits and grade point average (GPA). Credit is allowed for all University of Maine courses passed at the level of C- or higher. All grades remain on the academic transcript but are removed from the accumulative grade point average calculation. To be eligible for Fresh Start, students must have a minimum of 30 credits remaining toward degree completion and must complete those 30 credits in residence at the University of Maine. Students receiving a Fresh Start are ineligible for Valedictorian or Salutatorian awards. 

For more information, contact the Associate Dean or Director of the School or College you are readmitting. Fresh Start may impact a student’s eligibility for financial aid due to the Satisfactory Academic Progress Policy. More information is available at http://umaine.edu/stuaid/policies/sap/.

Please contact a B.U.S. advisor to discuss the transferability of credits not earned at the University of Maine.

  • High School diploma or equivalent (e.g., GED)
  • 18 credits of college-level courses from an accredited college/university with a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale

Applicants not previously enrolled at the University of Maine should follow the application instructions at ApplyMaine.

Applicants previously enrolled at the University of Maine should submit the following:

Applicants will also have an interview with a B.U.S. advisor to discuss their goals and objectives.

If you are unsure which application is right for you, contact Barbara Howard, Bachelor of University Studies Director.

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Careers

Many students build their programs of study around their intended career, thus extending and creating skill sets that are useful in employment.

Learn more about how UMaine helps students start or advance their careers at the Career Center.