Program overview
Do you have a desire to help preserve our precious ocean resources? As human activities continue to alter our coastal systems, the need is growing for experts in ocean conservation, management, regulation, and governance. Our B.A. in Marine Affairs is one of only four undergraduate Marine Affairs programs in the U.S., and our shoreline campus is the perfect place to learn best practices in marine policy, ecology, and sustainable development. Ride the wave into the “Ocean Century” with Marine Affairs at UNE.
Why UNE for Marine Affairs
There is no better place than our scenic coastal campus to acquire an education in marine affairs. Love where you live, and study what you love.
- One of only four programs of its kind in the U.S.
- State-of-the-art Marine Science Center
- Two flow-through seawater teaching labs
- Access to 3,500 miles of Maine coastline
- University-owned island and research vessels
- 3+3 Pathways Program for B.A. from UNE and University of Maine law degree (J.D.)
Meet Hannah, a Marine Affairs major
Careers
As a Marine Affairs major at UNE, you will combine the discipline of marine biology with the critical study of marine policy issues that affect everything from maritime trade to sustainability practices. With undergraduate research experiences and internships with local employers, you’ll soon be charting your course to a rewarding career in marine affairs.
With a degree in Marine Affairs, you may pursue many fascinating professions, including:
- Marine Law Attorney
- Environmental Educator
- Conservation Advocate
- Government Agency Researcher/Analyst
- Outreach and Communications Specialist
- Natural Resource Management and Policy Developer
Career Advising
Whether you have a specific career goal in mind or a vague idea of the field that interests you, Career Advising is here to help you plan your next step.
of graduates employed or enrolled in grad school within one year of graduation
(per 2016-2020 graduate surveys)
in Maine for getting a job
(Zippia, 2021)
Student Financial Services
One of the most important considerations when committing to a college or university is cost. We work with you and your family to help make your education affordable by pricing our tuition competitively and offering financial assistance.
Examples of available courses
There are many ways you can navigate this major. The following are examples of the exciting courses you can take:
- Marine Pollution
- Ocean and Coastal Law
- Environmental Communication
- Marine Biology
- Geographic Information Systems
- Management of Non-Profit Organizations
- Environmental Economics
Our 3+3 Pathways Program enables you to complete your B.A. in Marine Affairs at UNE and a law degree (J.D.) from the University of Maine in six years.
To learn more about the program, see the Curriculum or view the Catalog.
Honors program
We offer qualified students the option of participating in our Honors Program and graduating with Honors. This includes significant research, scholarship, or creative activity under the direction of a faculty member. You should consult with your major advisor or department chair for specific criteria and requirements.
MEET OUR FACULTY AND PROFESSIONAL STAFF
Apply Now or Request Information
Apply online for admission to one of our B.S. or B.A. programs or request more information on a program.
Experiential learning
“Whether it’s interning on a whale watch boat, analyzing ocean conservation strategies, or designing environmental education plans, Marine Affairs at UNE gives you real-world, hands-on experiences.
Research
In our cutting-edge facilities and out in the field, our undergraduate students are key contributors to our pioneering research into human impacts on the ocean. Topics include:
- Climate Change
- Marine Pollution
- Conservation and Restoration
- Fisheries and Aquaculture Management
- Marine Business and Entrepreneurship
Internships
Many exciting internship opportunities are available at sites such as:
- National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
- Wells National Estuarine Research Reserve
- New England Aquarium
- Friends of Casco Bay
- Atlantic Salmon Federation
- Cape Ann Whale Watch
- Maine Lobsterman’s Association
- Seacoast Science Center
- Gulf of Maine Research Institute
For more information, contact the College of Arts and Sciences Internship Office Marine Sciences contact Cynthia Simon at (207) 602-2540 or csimon@une.edu.
Global education
See the world
Study Marine Affairs on the other side of the world by taking part in our Global Education Programs.
Get a new ocean view and a fresh perspective on life by studying abroad. We offer semester-long programs in Iceland, Spain, France, or at UNE’s own global campus in Tangier, Morocco. Alternatively, you may choose from several shorter travel courses that will take you to Belize, Kenya, Mexico, Ireland, Panama, Italy, Cuba, the Galapagos Islands, or many other exciting locations.
Interested in studying abroad? Make a plan with your advisor.
