How to Apply
Why UMCES?
- One-on-one mentorship with the top environmental scientists in their field
- A collaborative research experience across multiple disciplines and laboratories
- Small class sizes and a strong sense of community at each laboratory
- An alumni network in academia, NGOs, and State and Federal Agencies
Studying at UMCES over both degrees gave me mentors that have lasted well into my career. I experienced hands-on lab and field research, but also was encouraged and provided the ability to grow in other avenues through lab, university, and system-based service, preparing me for the parts of a career in academia that aren’t always highlighted.
Which type of program are you interested in?
The University of Maryland Center for Environmental Science supports exemplary graduate students annually through a variety of programs:
- A joint Marine Estuarine Environmental Sciences (MEES) graduate degree program with the University System of Maryland.
- University of Maryland, Baltimore Graduate Program in Life Science (GPILS)
- Masters Program at Frostburg State University in Applied Ecology & Conservation Biology or Wildlife/Fisheries Biology
- A Professional Master of Environmental Management (MEM) in Sustainability
Step 1: Connect with the Right Person
The first step depends on your program. Some paths require you to identify a faculty advisor before applying, while others connect you with a program coordinator.
Research-based Programs
(MEES, Frostburg State programs, and GPILS)
What to do:
- Explore faculty research areas
- Identify potential advisors
- Reach out to ask if they are accepting students
MEM Program
What to do:
- Review program details
- Contact the program coordinator, Dr. Ben Norris, with questions
- Apply directly through the program
No faculty advisor is required before applying.
Step 2: Gather Application Materials and check timelines
Requirements and timelines vary by program—be sure to confirm details on your selected program’s website.
Marine, Estuarine, and Environmental Sciences (MEES) Graduate Program
M.S. Applied Ecology and Conservation Biology
M.S. Wildlife/Fisheries Biology
Step 3: Apply
Contact the graduate program of interest to consider and obtain application materials
- Marine, Estuarine, and Environmental Sciences (MEES) program (opens in a new tab)
- Masters Program in Applied Ecology and Conservation Biology
- Masters Programs in Wildlife/Fisheries (Frostburg University) (opens in a new tab)
- Master of Environmental Management in Sustainability
- Graduate Program in Life Sciences (GPILS) (opens in a new tab)