The University of Maine at Presque Isle functions on the assumption that all graduates should have a core of education that is common to all students, providing a broad base of knowledge and skills – a key to long term success. UMPI’s General Education Curriculum (GEC) provides that common core. Because minor changes are made to that core on an ongoing basis, UMPI students are expected to fulfill the requirements in place during the academic year that they were admitted. The General Education Curriculum can be found in the Course Catalogue.

A New General Education Curriculum

Beginning September 1, 2026, UMPI will launch a reimagined General Education curriculum designed to prepare students to meet the complexity, diversity, and change of a dynamic world. Built with care and enthusiasm by our faculty, the new curriculum is structured around eight General Learning Outcomes, including Writing as Critical Thought, Quantitative Literacy, Global Learning, and Integrative Learning – each representing a capability essential for success in career, community, and life. A signature feature of the new curriculum is our commitment to Integrative Learning, a philosophy that empowers students to connect knowledge across disciplines and apply their skills to the complex, real-world challenges that matter most.

Students currently enrolled at UMPI will continue to follow the General Education requirements of their incoming catalog year; this change does not affect your existing plan of study. Students newly accepted for Fall 2026 who confirm their enrollment prior to 4 p.m. on August 18, 2026 will have the opportunity to choose between the current and new General Education plan; students confirmed after that date will automatically follow the new curriculum. Whether you are just beginning your journey at UMPI or are already on your way to completing your degree, your Academic Advisor is your best resource for any questions about how this change may or may not affect you.

Exemption from GEC

Students entering the University of Maine at Presque Isle as degree seekers who have a completed baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution will receive transfer credit for their previous degree work and will be exempt from meeting the specific requirements of the GEC.  This does not exempt them from program requirements; it does exempt them from Placement Testing.  Advisors should counsel exempted students to take courses to fill any deficiencies in their general education relevant to their career or future citizenship.

Curriculum Requirements for Specific Programs

Please refer to the academic program for specific course requirements or recommendations regarding the Curriculum. Certain degree requirements may be met by informed choices within the General Education Curriculum. Students should consult with their advisors to make the best choices for their needs and goals.

Students changing majors may be advised to enroll for additional courses from the General Education Curriculum to satisfy their new program requirements.