Welcome to Onward Program

The Onward Program, a member of the University’s College Success Programs, helps people obtain a four-year degree at the University of Maine. Onward students often lack the academic credentials required to be accepted to the University in the traditional manner, or may simply need extra help. Through our unique support system, we prepare these students for success in college and beyond. While there is no such thing as a “typical” Onward student, some of our students are:

• single parents who want to be better providers for their children.
• blue collar workers who have been laid off or who are looking for a better career.
• people who did not complete high school due to family or personal reasons, but who have achieved their GED.
• people who are the first in their family to attend college.
• people with disabilities.

Students accepted into the Onward Program attend the University of Maine, and generally spend most of their first year taking courses to prepare them for college level classes. Upon completion of these classes, Onward students do not need to reapply to the University. They simply begin to take courses toward their intended degree.

More About Onward

You can learn more about the Onward Program at this link, including how to apply, how to pay for college, and what courses are offered.

The Onward Program began in 1970 as a way to make the University of Maine more accessible to students who, for academic and economic reasons, might not otherwise attend college. Jerry Herlihy, our first director, recruited fifteen students and provided them with support services. In 1970 there were two staff members to serve fifteen students. Currently we admit approximately fifty students and support them with a director, assistant director, three counselors, three faculty members, two administrative assistants, and a computer specialist. Most students will complete the Onward Program and go on to successful careers in the University and beyond. We invite you to join that group of hard-working, determined students!

Applications Now Available

Applications are now being accepted for enrollment in the Onward Program. Read the Onward News panel on the right for application deadlines and Information Session dates. Click on the Onward Program Application Process link for all application materials. And let students, staff and alumni (coming soon) tell you about Onward in their own words by checking out these brief videos:

• Cody, an former Onward student and UMaine graduate, shares his Onwad-to-work experience
• Randy, an Onward alumnus and registered nurse, tells about his experience
• Will, an Onward student, invites you to the next Information Session for prospective students
• RuthAnn tells what Peer Advisors do
• Lori talks about the application process

Onward Links

• Onward Program Student Handbook
• Useful Links for Students