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Unity Environmental University

New Gloucester, ME

private nonprofitgraduate

Quick Facts

“America's Environmental University”

1965
Founded
Private university
Type
5,619
Total Students
$18M
Endowment
$13K
Tuition (In-State)
$13K
Tuition (Out-State)
$18K
Avg Net Price
82%
Acceptance Rate
57%
Graduation Rate
6-year
42%
Retention Rate
Master's Colleges & Universities
Classification
President: Melik Peter Khoury

Data from Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0) & U.S. Dept. of Education

About Unity Environmental University

America's Environmental University, pioneering sustainable education and innovation.

Unity Environmental University, proudly bearing the motto "America's Environmental University," stands as a testament to pioneering education dedicated to a sustainable future. Founded in 1965, this private university has evolved into a vibrant hub for environmental studies, engaging over 9,100 students in its mission. It’s a place where passion for the planet meets practical, impactful learning, preparing the next generation of environmental leaders.

The university's journey began as a local effort to revitalize a community, but swiftly transformed, adopting its crucial environmental focus in 1977. Unity has consistently demonstrated its commitment to sustainability, from constructing the U.S.'s first Passivhaus college residence in 2011 to becoming the first college to divest its endowment from fossil fuels in 2012. Despite navigating periods of change and challenge, including a significant pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic, Unity has continually adapted to ensure its mission thrives, showing remarkable resilience and forward-thinking.

Today, Unity Environmental University is renowned for its innovative educational models, particularly its "uncommon success story" in online programming, which began with master's degrees in 2016 and expanded to undergraduate offerings. This flexible approach, combined with hybrid learning opportunities and partnerships—such as with the University of Southern Maine—ensures that cutting-edge environmental education is accessible to a broad and diverse student body. Prospective students and families will find an institution deeply committed to academic excellence, real-world impact, and fostering a deep connection to environmental stewardship.

Key Highlights

  • ✦Motto: "America's Environmental University," reflecting its core mission.
  • ✦Pioneered the U.S.'s first Passivhaus college residence in 2011.
  • ✦Became the first college in the country to divest its endowment of fossil fuels in 2012.
  • ✦Serves over 9,100 students, with more than 7,500 full-time across its educational units.
  • ✦Celebrated for its "uncommon success story" in online environmental education.
  • ✦Received an unprecedented $10 million gift in 2011, significantly strengthening its financial foundation.
  • ✦Transformed into a flexible, hybrid learning institution, including a partnership with the University of Southern Maine.

Timeline

1965
Founded as the Unity Institute of Liberal Arts and Sciences.
1977
Adopted an environmental-oriented focus.
2011
Built the first Passivhaus college residence in the U.S. and received a $10 million gift.
2012
Became the first college in the country to divest its endowment of fossil fuels.
2016
Began offering online education with its first master's degree.
2020
Closed its Unity campus due to the pandemic and announced a pivot away from a traditional residential model.
2021
Announced the new online and commuter Technical Institute for Environmental Professions.
2023
Changed its name to Unity Environmental University, now serving over 7,500 full-time students.
🏛️
61 Years
of Excellence

Schools & Colleges

1 notable schools within Unity Environmental University

🏫

Technical Institute for Environmental Professions

An online and commuter junior college, offering specialized environmental programs.

Leadership

Melik Peter Khoury
President

Data from Wikipedia – CC BY-SA 4.0

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