Master of Science in Marine Sciences Admissions

As a graduate Marine Science student at UNE, you will explore the theoretical foundations and practical applications of disciplines ranging from biology and chemistry to geology and physics. You will learn to integrate these fields to address complex, real-world challenges. In addition, you will have the opportunity to pursue a thesis-based research experience, conducting original research and preparing a thesis on a topic of your choosing — all while benefiting from UNE’s seaside location and state-of-the-art facilities.

• All complete applications are reviewed by program faculty, and decisions are made after the April 1 application deadline.
• All applicants must meet minimum requirements to be considered for admission. Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
• Applications are reviewed and considered for admission based on a combination of academics and experience that best fits with the program’s current open research opportunities.

For specific academic dates, please view the UNE Academic Calendar.

Application

Applicants to the graduate Marine Science program should apply using the following application: https://gradadmissions.une.edu/register/gradapp_gmar_gbio

Degree Requirement

Completion of a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology (or another related area) from a U.S. regionally accredited institution, or international equivalent, prior to matriculation.

All applicants are required to submit official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. Official transcripts can be requested through your application portal.

GPA Requirements

• Minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (including all coursework taken with no forgiveness for retakes).
• All applicants must meet minimum GPA requirements to be considered for admission.

Resume

A current resume is required and should be uploaded directly to your application portal.

Letters of Reference

• Two (2) letters of reference are required — requests submitted through the application portal.
• Letters should come from individuals who can speak to your academic and/or professional experience.
• Letters from friends or family members are not acceptable.

International Applicants

International applicants and those with foreign degrees must satisfy the following:

• Official credential evaluation by World Education Service (WES) confirming degree and grade equivalency.
• Applicants whose first language is not English must demonstrate fluency through a UNE-approved English language proficiency test.
• Refer to UNE’s English Language Proficiency page for acceptable tests and minimum score requirements.

Other Important Information

• Applicants are strongly advised to contact UNE faculty with whom they would like to work before or early in the application process.
• Meeting with faculty does not negate the need to fully complete the application and admissions process.
• Applications completed after the deadline will be reviewed on a space-available basis.
• All materials submitted as part of the application become the property of UNE and will not be returned or released to anyone, including the applicant.

Policy Exceptions

Policies ensure fair and consistent admissions practices for all applicants.

• All criteria are subject to change per accreditation requirements, curriculum changes, or institutional standards.
• Exceptions are rare and made on a case-by-case basis only when necessary to maintain fairness.

Transfer Credits

• Transfer credits are rarely awarded and reviewed on a case-by-case basis.

Advanced Standing

• No advanced standing available.

Experiential Learning

• No credit will be awarded for experiential learning.

Graduate Admissions and Recruitment