Founded in 1865, the University of Maine is a land and sea grant institution, and the flagship campus of the University of Maine System. Located in Orono along the banks of the Stillwater River, this vibrant and dynamic university serves Maine, the nation, and the world through its teaching, research and outreach mission. Students come from every county in Maine, more than 49 other states and 62 countries. The university offers more than 100 degree programs through which students can earn graduate certificates, master’s, doctoral or professional science master’s degrees. Opportunity for all members of the University of Maine community and its constituents is a cornerstone of its mission. Maine is located in the Northeastern part of the United States known as New England. The state of Maine is rated the 1 safest state in the United States by the Institute of Economics and Peace, and is ranked Happiest place to live in New England by the journal Science. Orono is in the center of the state, 12 miles north of Bangor, the state’s third largest city. It has a quaint college town with a population of 10,000 and only a 20 minute walk from campus. Maine is known for its natural beauty. Acadia National Park is 50 miles away and is the second most visited park in the country. People come to Maine to enjoy the outdoors and world-famous lobster. Hiking, white-water rafting and canoeing, cycling, and skiing are all available.