College of the Atlantic

Nestled on Mount Desert Island, College of the Atlantic offers a truly unique educational journey, standing out as one of the nation's first institutions dedicated solely to human ecology. This distinctive focus means students delve deep into the intricate relationships between humans and their natural, social, and built environments, fostering a comprehensive understanding that prepares them for a complex world. If you're looking for an interdisciplinary approach to global challenges, COA provides an unparalleled, focused learning experience.

The genesis of College of the Atlantic is as compelling as its curriculum. Conceived in 1968 by local visionaries James Gower and Les Brewer, the college was established to invigorate Mount Desert Island's economy during the off-season. They imagined a year-round institution that would attract students and faculty, bringing intellectual and economic vitality. With temporary approval granted in 1969 by the Maine State Board of Education, the dream of a new kind of college began to take shape.

With Edward Kaelber as its first president and a curriculum meticulously crafted by co-founder James Gower, College of the Atlantic officially opened its doors in 1972 to an inaugural class of just 32 students. This intimate beginning set the tone for a personalized and immersive educational environment. Remarkably, the majority of the campus itself was acquired for a symbolic $1 from the Oblate Fathers of Mary Immaculate Seminary, adding a layer of historical charm to its scenic location.

Students at College of the Atlantic become part of a close-knit community, exploring the single, expansive major of human ecology. This singular academic path ensures a deep, integrated learning experience, appealing to those who thrive in focused, interdisciplinary study. By 2012–13, the institution had grown to about 300 students, continuing its legacy of fostering innovative thinkers prepared to address the world's most pressing challenges.