UNE offers new major in ocean studies and marine affairs

Careers in the environmental and marine fields are projected to rise 28 percent by 2018, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Factors such as coastal population growth and urbanization, expansion of working waterfronts, tourism, and interest in coastal quality and marine conservation issues are driving this growth.  

To prepare the next generation of coastal/marine professionals for these career opportunities, the University of New England Department of Marine Sciences is offering a new major - a bachelor of arts in ocean studies and marine affairs.

The new major provides a solid foundation in resource use, marine governance systems, management, policy, ecosystems ecology, conservation, and sustainable development. UNE graduates will be prepared for careers requiring expertise in ecosystem and human health interactions, ocean management and political decision-making, and marine sustainability science and policies.

"Dramatic changes are under way in our coastal communities and ecosystems worldwide," says Barry Costa-Pierce, director of the UNE Marine Science Center and Doherty Chair of the Department of Marine Sciences. "UNE has created the ocean studies and marine affairs major to educate students to be leaders in the development of policy and management solutions that address the complex environmental challenges facing our oceans and coastal communities."

Graduates will find career opportunities as marine, coastal, and environmental managers, regulators, professional staffers at governmental or non-governmental agencies and organizations, teachers, policy experts and congressional staffers, consultants, and marine business owners. Much of job growth is expected to be in firms that assist other companies in coastal and marine environmental monitoring, management, and regulatory compliance.

UNE's new ocean studies and marine affairs major is accepting new students in fall 2013. For more information, contact Dr. Barry Costa-Pierce.