Southern Maine Community College
South Portland, ME
Quick Facts
“Envision a Future”
Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education
About Southern Maine Community College
Envision a future: SMCC transforms lives on Maine's scenic, historic coast.
Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) stands as a vibrant public community college dedicated to shaping futures. Nestled on the scenic and historic Fort Preble in South Portland, overlooking Casco Bay, SMCC offers a unique and inspiring learning environment. With over 7,000 students from across Maine, New England, and beyond, the college embodies its motto, "Envision a Future," by providing accessible and relevant education.
SMCC's rich history began in 1946 as the Maine Vocational Technical Institute, founded in Augusta to train World War II veterans for a new economy. Its rapid growth led to a significant relocation in 1952 to the decommissioned Fort Preble, setting the stage for its evolution. Over the decades, it transformed from a technical institute, gaining authorization to award Associate in Applied Science degrees in the 1960s, and eventually becoming a comprehensive community college by 2003 with the establishment of the Maine Community College System.
The college boasts a diverse array of academic strengths, offering more than 40 degree and certificate programs across five dynamic academic divisions: Applied Technology, Arts & Sciences, Health Sciences, Public Safety, and Business and Information Technology. This extensive range ensures that students can find pathways tailored to their aspirations, whether they seek direct entry into the workforce or transfer to a four-year institution. In 2011, SMCC expanded its reach by opening a second campus at Brunswick Landing, further enhancing educational opportunities in the region.
For prospective students and families, SMCC offers a compelling blend of historical significance, stunning coastal beauty, and a robust academic environment designed to foster success. Its commitment to hands-on learning, community engagement, and a supportive campus culture makes it an ideal place to learn new skills, advance careers, and truly envision a brighter future.
Key Highlights
- ✦Serves over 7,000 students from diverse backgrounds across Maine, New England, and other nations.
- ✦Offers more than 40 degree and certificate programs across five key academic divisions.
- ✦Rooted in history, founded in 1946 to serve World War II veterans with vocational training.
- ✦Located on the historic Fort Preble site in South Portland, providing scenic views of Casco Bay.
- ✦Evolved from a technical institute to a comprehensive community college, offering Associate in Applied Science and Associate in Arts degrees.
- ✦Expanded with a second campus at Brunswick Landing, opened in 2011.
- ✦Motto: "Envision a Future," reflecting its commitment to student success and development.
Timeline
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