Resources & Opportunities
College of the Atlantic
Learning through practice and place
At College of the Atlantic, learning extends far beyond the classroom. Our campus is a gateway to innovative labs, field stations, farms, and research initiatives that offer hands-on experiences for every student. Whether you’re passionate about science, art, sustainability, or community engagement, you’ll find resources and opportunities to fuel your curiosity and support your ambitions.
Explore our resources and programs
Museum
Dorr Museum of Natural History
Discover Maine’s wildlife and ecosystems through student-curated exhibits and interactive programs.
GIS Mapping
Geographic Information Systems Lab
Apply geospatial analysis and mapping in real-world research, planning, and conservation projects.
Agriculture
COA farms
Engage with sustainable agriculture, food systems, and community-based learning on our working organic farm.
Field study
Islands program
Conduct field research and study ecology at island stations like Great Duck Island and Mount Desert Rock.
Entrepreneurship
The Hatchery
Launch for-profit or nonprofit ventures with mentorship, credit, and seed funding in COA’s business incubator.
Marine research
Allied Whale
Participate in marine mammal research and conservation—track whales, respond to strandings, and contribute to science.
Global learning
International programs
Expand your horizons with global learning, study abroad, and international partnerships.
Botany
Herbarium
Explore COA’s plant collection and resources for botanical research and education.
Sustainability
Community Energy Center
Get involved in campus and community sustainability through renewable energy projects and climate action.
Maritime
Boating resources
Access COA’s fleet and maritime programming for research, recreation, and exploration.
Campus growing
Gardens
Learn about COA’s edible and educational gardens, integrated with curriculum and campus life.
Get involved
No matter your interests, COA’s resources and opportunities help you turn passion into action. Connect with program directors, join research projects, or explore new fields—your next adventure starts here.
Stories from the Field
From a pipette in Bar Harbor to the frontiers of kidney research
The Maine IDeA Network of Biomedical Research Excellence, a College of the Atlantic partner program, has helped launch thousands of scientific careers, including that of Dr. Nishad Jayasundara ’05. Read More
COA and Maine Law launch 3+3 pathway to legal careers
The partnership allows qualified students to earn a bachelor’s degree and Juris Doctor in six years, reducing the time and cost of legal education. Read More
Statewide gathering advances new approaches to invasive green crabs
College of the Atlantic students, alumni, and faculty take on key roles in the 2026 Green Crab Working Summit. Read More
Student Resources
Thorndike Library
Research expertise, specialized databases, and guidance for independent and collaborative projects across disciplines.
Registrar
Registration, course offerings, student forms, transcripts, and support as you design your program of study.
Writing Center
Focused help for brainstorming, drafting, revising, and refining papers, projects, proposals, and presentations.
Career Development
Internship planning and placement, resume and interview preparation, and connections to meaningful work.
Academic Support Services
Study skills, learning strategies, and accommodations designed around your strengths and challenges.
Meal menu
From curries to carnitas, savory tofu to Maine seafood, our dining hall celebrates flavor, community, and responsible sourcing.
more student resources and info
Everything you’re looking for (we hope) in one central place.
Ready to build your own path?
Apply Now
Join a close-knit community built for curiosity, collaboration, and purpose.
connect with admissions
Talk with an admission counselor about your interests, questions, and goals.
Plan a Visit
Attend a class, meet students, and experience learning rooted in place.