The THOR Institute is a collaboration across the University of Maine System to strengthen education and training pathways to bolster one of Maine’s largest industries: Tourism, Hospitality, and Outdoor Recreation (THOR). In fact, one in five people in Maine are employed in the THOR sector, contributing in so many ways to Maine’s identity as Vacationland!

The THOR Institute serves as a coordinator and point of contact among UMS and the tourism, hospitality and outdoor recreation economies. Participating campuses are the University of Maine at Augusta, the University of Maine at Farmington, the University of Maine at Fort Kent, the University of Maine (Orono), the University of Maine at Machias, the University of Maine at Presque Isle, and the University of Southern Maine.


Explore THOR at Maine’s Public Universities

The University of Maine System offers many pathways for you to match your passion with your career.

THOR Institute Student Fellowship

 Students have the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills to connect more broadly with the community.

Vacationland Courses

These place-based courses aim to expose students across UMS to the challenges and opportunities within the THOR economies through different parts of Maine.

Course Listings

Search for classes offered across UMS in the tourism, hospitality, and outdoor recreation disciplines. Students have the opportunity to take courses with other campuses beyond their home institution.

Executive Committee

The THOR Institute is composed of faculty from across the UMS as well as staff members dedicated to supporting these initiatives.

Related Opportunities

We are grateful to have a robust network of workforce and academic partners to support additional opportunities for students.

THOR In the News:

Click on the news stories below for more information and links. Read archived news updates here.

Recent Updates: