University of Maryland

Overview

Marine-Estuarine-Environmental Sciences (MEES) is a collaborative graduate program within the University System of Maryland (USM), uniting faculty across various campuses and research institutions. This program equips students with the skills to explore the intricate biological, physical, and chemical processes within marine and estuarine ecosystems, applying this knowledge to address real-world environmental challenges.

The MEES curriculum covers a diverse range of research topics, including fisheries ecology, environmental chemistry and contaminants, ecosystem dynamics, and environmental impact assessments, supported by access to major regional field and laboratory resources.

What you'll study

MEES offers an integrated approach that combines graduate coursework with hands-on research, guided by faculty from across the University System of Maryland. Students engage in core and elective courses that establish a solid scientific foundation, followed by research aligned with their interests and mentorship from experienced faculty.

Coursework may include:

• Environment and Society
• Applied Environmental Science
• Interconnected Earth Systems: Land, Ocean, and Estuary
• Ecological Systems
• Cell and Molecular Biology for the Environmental Scientist: From Genes to Ecosystems

Research and learning outcomes:

• In-depth faculty-mentored research projects covering topics from molecular mechanisms to fisheries ecology and environmental impact evaluations.
• Development of skills in scientific methods, data analysis, and effective research communication.

Facilities and special resources include:

• Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (CBL) (Solomons, MD)
• Horn Point Laboratory (HPL) (near Cambridge, MD)
• Appalachian Laboratory (AL) (Frostburg, MD)
• Institute of Marine and Environmental Technology (IMET) (Baltimore, MD)
• Various laboratories and facilities across participating USM campuses.

Entry requirements

• GPA: A strong undergraduate academic record is essential; minimum GPA requirements may vary based on the applicant's profile.
• GRE®: The General Test is required, with minimum score thresholds subject to change based on application cycles.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MEES program are well-prepared for diverse career paths in environmental science, research, and policy. Opportunities may include positions in government agencies, non-profit organizations, academic institutions, and private sector companies focused on environmental management, conservation, and sustainability initiatives. The interdisciplinary training and research experience gained through the program equip students to tackle pressing environmental challenges effectively.