The college was organized in 1969 by the 104th Maine Legislature and its first classes began in fall 1970, with 35 full-time and 131 part-time students.
In addition, the college offers a comprehensive schedule of continuing education courses as well as business and industry outreach programs.
The college is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education and offers more than 30 degree, diploma and certificate programs.
In 2021 the college held a virtual commencement for 482 students due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.
[1] In 2024 the college announced that in 2025 they would begin offering limited student housing at a nearby hotel.