Maine offers comprehensive environmental science programs from bachelor's to doctoral levels at institutions including the University of New England, University of Maine, Bowdoin College, and Maine Maritime Academy. Environmental scientists in Maine earn a median annual salary of $72,640, with strong opportunities in marine science, forest conservation, and coastal research. The state's unique position combining vast wilderness with extensive coastline creates diverse career pathways in both public and private sectors.
Welcome to EnvironmentalScience.org, your comprehensive resource for environmental science education in Maine. If you're passionate about protecting our natural world and considering a career in environmental science, Maine offers exceptional opportunities that combine academic rigor with hands-on field experience in some of the nation's most diverse ecosystems.
Maine holds a special place in environmental science education. As the least densely populated state east of the Mississippi River, Maine preserves vast stretches of temperate broadleaf and mixed forest biomes throughout the North Woods, supporting thriving wildlife populations and creating natural laboratories for ecological research. Most residents live near the state's fascinating drowned coastline, which offers researchers and students a living preview of rising ocean impacts while serving as a constant subject of study in geology, oceanography, and environmental science degree programs.
The state features remarkable environmental landmarks that enhance educational opportunities. Old Sow near Eastport is one of the world's largest tidal whirlpools. At the same time, Bubble Rock in Acadia National Park provides evidence of glacial movement during the last Ice Age through its status as a massive glacial erratic. These natural features, combined with experienced faculty and modern research facilities, create an outstanding foundation for environmental science education.
Career Opportunities for Environmental Scientists in Maine
Where Environmental Scientists Work in Maine
Maine's vast unpopulated wilderness areas and extensive coastline create diverse employment opportunities for environmental science professionals. Organizations, corporations, and governmental agencies throughout the state consistently seek qualified environmental scientists for ecological management, research, and conservation purposes.
The National Park Service operates Acadia National Park, a coastal jewel that encompasses both seashore and forest ecosystems near Bar Harbor. The agency also maintains portions of the Appalachian Trail, oversees Katahdin, and manages Roosevelt Campobello International Park. These protected areas employ environmental scientists in roles ranging from wildlife biology to visitor impact assessment.
Research institutions like the Biodiversity Research Institute employ scientists conducting cutting-edge environmental research, while Maine's Department of Environmental Protection regularly hires environmental specialists and scientists for regulatory compliance, water quality monitoring, and habitat restoration projects. The Gulf of Maine Research Institute focuses on sustainable fisheries and ocean ecosystem health, creating opportunities for marine biology specialists and oceanographers.
Private sector opportunities exist with forestry companies managing sustainable timber operations, environmental consulting firms conducting impact assessments, and renewable energy companies developing offshore wind projects. The state's forest industry, which covers nearly 90% of Maine's land area, requires environmental scientists to ensure sustainable harvesting practices and habitat preservation for species like the Canada lynx and Atlantic salmon.
Salary and Job Outlook
Environmental scientists in Maine earn competitive salaries that reflect the state's cost of living and the specialized nature of environmental work. According to 2024 Bureau of Labor Statistics data, environmental scientists and specialists in Maine earn a median annual wage of $72,640, with the average yearly salary reaching $77,380. Entry-level positions typically start around $48,310 (10th percentile), while experienced professionals in senior research or management roles can earn $108,470 or more (90th percentile).
The job market for environmental scientists in Maine shows steady growth. Between 2022 and 2032, the field is projected to grow by 6%, creating approximately 20 new positions annually. This growth reflects increasing demand for environmental expertise in climate change adaptation, coastal resilience planning, forest management, and water quality protection.
Maine's unique environmental challenges-including ocean acidification affecting shellfish industries, forest pest management, and coastal development pressures-ensure the continued need for qualified environmental science professionals. Career pathways in conservation science, environmental policy, and ecological research remain particularly strong as the state balances economic development with environmental stewardship.
Master's Programs in Environmental Science
University of New England School of Marine Science
In a state with such strong maritime traditions, oceanography and marine science programs naturally flourish. The University of New England's School of Marine Science exemplifies this strength, offering comprehensive graduate programs designed for students passionate about ocean ecosystems and sustainable seafood systems.
The MS in Marine Science provides rigorous training in marine biology, oceanography, and coastal ecology. Students engage with faculty as they research topics ranging from Gulf of Maine ecosystem dynamics to marine organism physiology. The program emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical field experience, leveraging UNE's coastal location in Biddeford.
For students interested in the intersection of marine science and food systems, UNE offers a Professional Science Master's in Marine Food Systems. This program addresses critical challenges in sustainable fisheries, aquaculture, and seafood supply chains-issues particularly relevant to Maine's fishing communities and growing aquaculture industry.
Students seeking an accelerated path can pursue the 4+1 combined bachelor's and master's program, completing both degrees in five years. This option allows undergraduates to begin graduate coursework during their senior year, saving time and tuition costs while maintaining program rigor.
Program Highlights: Coastal location for field research, specialized marine food systems track, accelerated 4+1 option, faculty expertise in Gulf of Maine ecosystems
Ideal For: Students interested in marine conservation, fisheries management, aquaculture, or oceanographic research
University of Maine MS in Ecology and Environmental Science
While oceanography receives considerable attention, Maine's terrestrial ecosystems also demand scientific expertise. The University of Maine addresses this need through its MS in Ecology and Environmental Science, a program that balances marine and terrestrial research opportunities.
Available in both thesis and non-thesis tracks, the program accommodates a range of career goals. The thesis track prepares students for doctoral studies or research-focused careers, requiring original research and defense of findings. The non-thesis track emphasizes coursework and practical experience, making it suitable for professionals seeking advanced knowledge for applied positions in environmental consulting, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations.
The program provides access to diverse field sites, including Acadia National Park, the Penobscot River watershed, and nearby coastal islands. Research opportunities span topics like forest ecology, stream ecosystem dynamics, climate change impacts on Maine ecosystems, and wildlife habitat modeling. Faculty members maintain active research programs funded by agencies including the National Science Foundation, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the Maine Department of Inland Fisheries and Wildlife.
Program Highlights: Flexible thesis and non-thesis options, diverse ecosystems for research, strong faculty research portfolios, connections to state and federal agencies
Ideal For: Students interested in forest ecology, freshwater systems, wildlife management, or ecosystem science with both marine and terrestrial applications
Bachelor's Programs in Environmental Science
Bowdoin College Environmental Studies Program
Bowdoin College in Brunswick offers a bachelor's program in environmental studies that emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and student research participation. The program's location between Portland and Bath provides access to both urban environmental challenges and pristine coastal research sites.
Bowdoin's curriculum integrates the natural, social, and humanities sciences to prepare students for complex environmental problem-solving. Students might examine coastal erosion through geological lenses while also studying policy responses and community impacts. This interdisciplinary foundation is valuable for careers that require both technical expertise and communication skills.
The program places special emphasis on undergraduate research opportunities. Students participate in faculty research projects on topics such as forest ranger management strategies, intertidal zone ecology, and the effectiveness of environmental policy. Field research experiences might include wildlife tracking in Maine's North Woods, water quality sampling in Casco Bay, or forest inventory surveys-providing hands-on skills that distinguish Bowdoin graduates in competitive job and graduate school applications.
Program Highlights: Interdisciplinary curriculum, high undergraduate research participation, small class sizes, access to coastal and forest research sites
Admission Requirements: Competitive GPA (typically 3.5+), strong background in sciences and mathematics, demonstrated interest in environmental issues, SAT/ACT scores (test-optional), recommendation letters emphasizing academic potential
Ideal For: Students seeking a liberal arts foundation with an environmental science focus, those interested in environmental policy or law school, students who thrive in small seminar settings
Maine Maritime Academy Corning School of Ocean Studies
Maine Maritime Academy in Castine offers a unique undergraduate environment combining maritime traditions with rigorous environmental science education. The Corning School of Ocean Studies provides bachelor's degree tracks in marine biology and marine science, preparing students for careers in ocean research, fisheries management, and marine conservation.
Situated directly on Penobscot Bay, the campus serves as a living laboratory for oceanographic studies. Students gain extensive sea time through research cruises, coastal sampling expeditions, and vessel-based field courses. This hands-on approach ensures graduates develop practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge-a combination highly valued by employers in marine science fields.
The marine biology track emphasizes biological oceanography, marine organism physiology, and ecosystem ecology. Students study everything from microscopic plankton to aquatic mammals, understanding how these organisms interact within complex ocean food webs. The marine science track takes a broader approach, incorporating physical oceanography, marine geology, and ocean chemistry, along with biological components.
Both tracks prepare students for careers with federal agencies like NOAA and the National Marine Fisheries Service, state marine resource departments, aquariums, environmental consulting firms, and graduate programs in marine sciences. The academy's maritime focus also creates unique opportunities in vessel-based research careers and maritime environmental compliance.
Program Highlights: Extensive hands-on sea time, vessel-based field courses, Penobscot Bay location, connections to maritime industries, guaranteed field experience
Admission Requirements: Strong performance in biology, chemistry, and mathematics, physical fitness for vessel-based work, SAT/ACT scores, demonstrated interest in marine science through coursework or activities
Ideal For: Students who learn best through hands-on experience, those interested in vessel-based research careers, future NOAA or fisheries scientists, and students comfortable with maritime academy structure
Maine Environmental Science Programs at a Glance
| Institution | Degree Level | Primary Focus | Distinctive Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of New England | Master's | Marine Science, Marine Food Systems | 4+1 accelerated option, professional science master's track, Gulf of Maine focus |
| University of Maine | Master's | Ecology, Environmental Science | Thesis and non-thesis options, terrestrial and marine research, and strong faculty funding |
| Bowdoin College | Bachelor's | Environmental Studies (Interdisciplinary) | Liberal arts integration, high research participation, and small seminars |
| Maine Maritime Academy | Bachelor's | Marine Biology, Marine Science | Vessel-based learning, Penobscot Bay location, guaranteed sea time, maritime career pathways |
Financing Your Environmental Science Education in Maine
Maine residents benefit from in-state tuition rates at public universities, significantly reducing the cost of programs at the University of Maine. The University of Maine system offers merit-based scholarships for high-achieving students, as well as need-based financial aid packages. Graduate students may qualify for research assistantships, teaching assistantships, or fellowships that cover tuition while providing stipends for living expenses.
Private institutions like Bowdoin College meet 100% of demonstrated financial need for admitted students, making the college accessible regardless of family income. Maine Maritime Academy offers competitive financial aid packages and ROTC scholarship opportunities for students interested in combining military service with their education.
Several Maine-specific scholarship opportunities support students pursuing environmental science. The Maine Community Foundation administers environmental scholarships for students pursuing conservation-related degrees. The Maine Audubon Society and other conservation organizations offer scholarships to students who demonstrate a commitment to environmental stewardship. Federal Work-Study programs at all four institutions allow students to earn money while gaining experience in campus research labs or field stations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What career opportunities exist for environmental scientists in Maine after graduation?
Maine offers diverse career paths for environmental science graduates. State and federal agencies, including the Maine Department of Environmental Protection, the National Park Service at Acadia, and NOAA, employ environmental scientists for regulatory work, research, and conservation management. Research institutions such as the Biodiversity Research Institute and the Gulf of Maine Research Institute hire scientists for specialized research projects. Private sector opportunities exist with environmental consulting firms, forestry companies, and renewable energy developers. Many graduates also pursue careers with nonprofit conservation organizations working on habitat protection, watershed restoration, and environmental education.
How do Maine's environmental science programs compare to those in other New England states?
Maine's programs excel in marine science and coastal ecology due to the state's extensive coastline and maritime heritage. The combination of ocean access and vast forestlands creates unique opportunities for research in both marine and terrestrial ecosystems that few programs elsewhere can match. While Massachusetts and Connecticut have larger research universities, Maine's programs offer more intimate learning environments with better student-to-faculty ratios and earlier access to hands-on research experiences. The state's natural environment serves as an exceptional outdoor laboratory that students can access regularly rather than visiting occasionally.
Can I specialize in marine biology or oceanography at the Maine universities?
Yes, Maine excels in marine science education. The University of New England offers dedicated master's programs in marine science and marine food systems, with faculty specializing in Gulf of Maine ecosystems, fisheries science, and aquaculture. Maine Maritime Academy's undergraduate programs in marine biology and marine science provide vessel-based learning with guaranteed sea time. Even programs with a broader environmental science focus, such as the University of Maine's ecology program, offer strong marine components given the state's coastal location. Students interested in marine specializations will find ample research opportunities, internships with marine organizations, and career pathways in Maine's maritime industries.
What are typical admission requirements for these environmental science programs?
Undergraduate programs typically require strong performance in high school science and mathematics courses, with competitive GPAs generally above 3.5 for selective schools like Bowdoin. Most programs accept SAT or ACT scores, though some have adopted test-optional policies. Demonstrated interest in environmental issues through coursework, activities, or volunteer work strengthens applications. Graduate programs require a bachelor's degree in a related field (biology, chemistry, environmental science, geology), a competitive undergraduate GPA (typically 3.0 or higher), GRE scores for some programs, letters of recommendation from professors or supervisors, and a statement of purpose explaining research interests and career goals. Relevant research or field experience significantly enhances graduate applications.
Are there opportunities for field research and hands-on learning in these programs?
Field research and experiential learning form the foundation of Maine's environmental science programs. Students conduct research in Acadia National Park, the Penobscot River watershed, coastal islands, and working forests throughout the state. Marine programs include research cruises in the Gulf of Maine, intertidal ecology surveys, and vessel-based oceanographic sampling. Undergraduate programs emphasize early research participation, with many students co-authoring publications before graduation. Graduate programs require original research for thesis tracks. Internships with state agencies, research institutions, and conservation organizations provide additional hands-on experience. Maine's position as a natural laboratory ensures students spend significant time outside the classroom applying concepts in real ecosystems.
Key Takeaways
- Geographic Advantages: Maine's combination of extensive coastline, vast forests, and low population density creates exceptional natural laboratories for environmental science education and research, offering students hands-on experience in diverse ecosystems from the Gulf of Maine to the North Woods.
- Strong Marine Science Programs: The state excels in oceanography and marine biology education, with specialized programs at the University of New England and Maine Maritime Academy that emphasize vessel-based learning and address critical issues in fisheries, aquaculture, and ocean ecosystem health.
- Competitive Career Prospects: Environmental scientists in Maine earn a median salary of $72,640, with opportunities spanning federal agencies like the National Park Service and NOAA, state environmental departments, research institutions, and private consulting firms focused on forest management and coastal development.
- Diverse Program Options: From Bowdoin's interdisciplinary liberal arts approach to Maine Maritime's hands-on maritime science focus, students can select programs that match their learning style and career goals, with options at both the undergraduate and graduate levels serving different specializations.
- Field Research Emphasis: All programs prioritize experiential learning, ensuring students develop practical skills through research projects, internships, and fieldwork in Maine's protected areas, working forests, and coastal waters-experience that distinguishes graduates in competitive job markets and graduate school applications.
Ready to start your environmental science journey in Maine? Explore programs that combine rigorous academics with unparalleled access to coastal and forest ecosystems, preparing you for meaningful careers in conservation, research, and environmental stewardship.
2024 US Bureau of Labor Statistics salary and job growth figures for Environmental Scientists and Specialists reflect state and national data, not school-specific information. Conditions in your area may vary. Data accessed January 2026.
