Maine is Your Classroom. The World is Your Office.
Whether you’re building a legacy in your own backyard or preparing to lead on a global stage, your journey starts here.
Why study in a lecture hall when you can master your craft on the trail, in the kitchen, or at the resort? At Maine’s Public Universities, we’ve turned 1.3 million acres of iconic landscape into a professional launchpad. We don’t just teach Tourism, Hospitality, and Outdoor Recreation (THOR)—we define it!
The Big Picture: What is the THOR Institute?
A Statewide Alliance for Global Leadership
The THOR Institute is a powerhouse partnership across all seven University of Maine System campuses. Our mission is to bridge the gap between Maine’s natural DNA and your professional future.
In Maine, these industries aren’t just sectors—they are our identity. With one in five people in the state employed in THOR*, we are cultivating a community of experts who are as comfortable navigating the North Woods as they are managing world-class resorts. We provide the pathways so that the talent grown in Maine has the power to stay and lead here, or the credentials to excel anywhere.
The Career Ecosystem: Local Roots, Global Reach
Your Network: A Career Ecosystem without Borders
Build your foundation in the place the world dreams of visiting.
The THOR Institute isn’t just a coordinator; it’s your direct link to Maine’s most influential employers and a global network of alumni.
- For the Local Leader: Gain a seat at the table with Maine’s heritage brands and innovative startups. With over 50,000 opportunities currently open across the state, your impact starts on day one.
- For the Global Explorer: Master the high-level leadership, stewardship, and hospitality skills that are in demand from the Alps to the Andes. A Maine-made degree is a respected currency in every corner of the globe.
One System. Seven Gateways.
You aren’t limited by your zip code. As a UMS student, the entire state is your campus. You have the freedom to access specialized courses, elite mentorship, and hands-on internships across all seven universities:
- University of Maine at Augusta
- University of Maine at Farmington
- University of Maine at Fort Kent
- University of Maine (Orono)
- University of Maine at Machias
- University of Maine at Presque Isle
- University of Southern Maine
The Call to Action
Ready to turn your passion into a profession? Stay connected to the latest field reports, fellowship alerts, and industry breakthroughs.
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*Source: Maine Office of Tourism