Self-designed major… endless possibilities

Every COA student designs their own course of study in human ecology . Beyond a small core of degree requirements , there’s no set path. You give shape to your curriculum based on your interests and goals, exploring across multiple areas of study or digging deeper into a chosen focus.

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Why we take a different approach

In the words of faculty member Rich Borden: “There is a tendency, especially in the academic world, to carve life into ever smaller pieces in order to make sense of it. All too often, the people who do this come to believe that is how the world really is. The aim of human ecology is to remind us that we are part of a complex and interactive living world. Its broad mandate calls us to cross the boundaries of traditional disciplines and seek fresh combinations of ideas. This demands a different approach to education—one which invites imagination and caring for the future. This is why COA was founded, and it is what we do best.”

What you should learn at COA

 

Stories about academics at COA:

  • NEWS
    Designing a New Approach to Higher Ed
    Changemaker Residency is the pilot project of an experiential higher education program that aims to empower students from around the world with the tools, skills, and mindsets to create meaningful social change. The Residency was designed by Clément Moliner-Roy ’18 for his College of the Atlantic capstone senior project.
  • NEWS
    The Skeletons Are Out of the Closet
    An exhibit at the Smithsonian-affiliated Abbe Museum highlighting the relationship of Maine’s indigenous Wabanaki people to their environment utilizes a rich collection of marine mammal bones curated by Leah Rubin ’19 during her work with the College of the Atlantic George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History.
  • NEWS
    COA Team Places in Food Innovation Challenge
    A team of College of the Atlantic students captures the judge’s attention at the New England Food System Innovation Challenge, finishing second place on the college track, and winning $500, with their pitch for a Veggie Van mobile produce market.