Master of Quaternary and Climate Studies at The University of Maine

The Quaternary and Climate Studies at The University of Maine is a Master program designed for students who want to build the knowledge and skills required for careers in this field. Delivered on campus at the university's main campus in Orono , United States of America, the program is taught in English and takes 2 years to complete. Students study in a Full Time environment while preparing for future professional opportunities. The next intake starts on August 28, 2026.

About Master of Quaternary and Climate Studies

The University of Maine Climate Change Institute offers a MS degree in Quaternary and Climate Studies which is a thesis-based program that requires at least 30 credit hours, which will consist of at least 24 hours of coursework and at least 6 hours of thesis work. Thesis work may not exceed 15 hours.

All students in the M.S. program are required to take the following three courses:

ERS 542 (Atmosphere, Ocean, Ice, and Climate Change)
ANT 501/BIO501 (Climate, Culture, and the Biosphere) or ANT530 (Human Dimensions of Climate Change)
INT 500 (Interdisciplinary Applications of Climate Science)

In addition, all UMaine students enrolled in research master's (thesis) programs must receive one credit of Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) training prior to completing the degree, preferably prior to commencing research.

A minimum of 12 hours of coursework (exclusive of thesis) must be at the graduate level (500 or above) unless petitioned. Graduate coursework and thesis research, preparation, and completion will normally take no more than two academic years of resident study.

Requirements and Admission Criteria for Master of Quaternary and Climate Studies at The University of Maine

Entry Requirements

A bachelor's degree is required for non-degree, certificate, C.A.S, Ed.S, and doctoral program.

English Program Requirements

An English language proficiency exam is not needed if your undergraduate (or master’s) degree was taught in English or if English is an official language of your home country. The Graduate School accepts TOEFL, IELTS, Duolingo and PTE test scores. Some departments may have specific English proficiency requirements, make sure to check with the graduate coordinator.

Fee Information

Application Fee 50

How to Apply

Prepare your essay, resume, recommendation letters, transcripts, test scores, and any additional application materials that may be required.
Create an account for the online application portal by entering your name and email address.
Pay the application fee or receive a fee waiver. Refer to the frequently asked questions section to see if you qualify for a fee waiver.
Submit your application!

Master of Quaternary and Climate Studies at The University of Maine

The University of Maine

United States of America, Orono