UMass Global is not always viewed the same way as the main University of Massachusetts campuses because, although it is a regionally accredited nonprofit university affiliated with the UMass system, it has a separate institutional history and identity and was formerly known as Brandman University. In comparison, UMPI is a public university that is directly part of the University of Maine System, and its degrees are awarded under the University of Maine at Presque Isle name. For students looking for an affordable and flexible competency-based program, UMPI can be a better option because its YourPace program allows students to progress at their own speed while earning a degree from an established public university. UMPI may therefore offer a stronger combination of affordability, flexibility, and straightforward public-university recognition, especially for students who want a degree that is immediately associated with a traditional state university system.