Marine Biology

On the shore of the spectacular Gulf of Maine and the nearby Bay of Fundy, the ocean will be your classroom.

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Two students search for green crabs in seaweed on the coast. The ocean and a fishing boat are in the background.

The University of Maine at Machias is uniquely located at the headwaters of the Machias River estuary on the Down East coast of Maine. Far from the bright lights of the city, Machias is an ideal location for the naturalist.

In addition to our own aquaculture laboratory, where students can do individual and class projects with tropical and cold water organisms, we are only a short drive from state-of-the-art mariculture facilities for finfish and shellfish. Our geographic information systems lab allows you to gain skills at mapping and track biological phenomena that are of research interest. Whether you pursue a career in marine education, fisheries science, aquaculture, or decide to continue your studies for a graduate degree, we will help prepare you for a lifetime in marine sciences.

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Why UMaine Machias

  • Students conduct research, have internship opportunities, and can complete a “semester by the sea” at the Downeast Institute, UMaine Machias‘s marine science field station on Great Wass Island. A number of UMaine Machias alums have been employed by the institute after graduating.
  • Through a partnership with Allied Whale, UMaine Machias students have the opportunity to respond to calls for stranded marine animals.
  • Students learn the anatomy of marine species through hands-on skeletal reconstruction projects.
Skyview of Machias campus

Potential Careers

UMaine Machias’ Marine Biology program can prepare you for careers in such areas as:

  • Biologist for Federal, State, or Local Marine Natural Resource Agencies
  • Biologist for Government, Private or Non-Profit Consulting Firms
  • Classroom Teacher
  • Extension/Outreach and Environmental Education
  • Hatchery Employee
  • Laboratory Technician
  • Resource Management
  • Interpreter/Naturalist for Aquaria, Museums, Tourist Vessels, Recreation or Conservation Areas
  • Shellfish, Fin-Fish, or Seaweed Farmer

See what Alumni are doing

Alumni Spotlights: Bennett Ellis ’14

Alumni Spotlights: Olivia Streit ’18

Alumni Spotlight: Aisling Farragher-Gemma ’18

Let the Adventure Begin

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