UNE ranked in top 10 of best colleges for marine biology by ‘College Magazine’

College Magazine lists UNE in top 10 for best marine biology programs

College Magazine ranks the University of New England number seven in the country on its list of “The 10 Best Colleges for Marine Biology.” It is the only school in New England to crack to the list’s top 10.

The magazine credits UNE for offering much more than general marine biology. It notes that the University offers an array of specific options, such as a minor and a bachelor of arts degree in marine affairs, a minor and bachelor of science degree in aquaculture as well as in marine entrepreneurship, and a bachelor of marine science in a program called MARMAT, a double major in marine sciences and applied mathematics.

“This ranking reflects the commitment of our faculty to our students, the wonderful facilities on campus and the location of the school,” says Charles Tilburg, Ph.D., chair of the UNE School of Marine Programs. “Whether it is our marine affairs students leading a coastal cleanup or our marine science students pursuing their own research, our location and facilities allow our students to get real-world experience in the marine environment.”

The ranking article also highlights the advantage of UNE’s location on the coast.

“Being right on the coast, it’s not only beautiful but also offers a lot of opportunities for experiential learning,” Abigail Hayne (Marine Sciences, ’19), is quoted by the magazine. “I also love the smaller size of the school. My class sizes are very small compared to a bigger state school, which has allowed me to get to know my professors very well.”

The magazine also draws attention to marine research at UNE, which offers student fellowships, research grants, projects and programs in students’ specializations of choice. The School of Marine Programs also partners with some impressive marine-based organizations and companies, such as the United States Naval Academy and the Maine North Atlantic Development Office.

View the top 10 list

Abigail Hayne tells College Magazine being on the coast provides UNE students a lot of opportunities for experiential learning
Abigail Hayne tells College Magazine being on the coast provides UNE students a lot of opportunities for experiential learning
Student Emily Hanson works in the lab with Carrie Byron, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Marine Sciences
Student Emily Hanson works in the lab with Carrie Byron, Ph.D., assistant professor in the Department of Marine Sciences