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A Liberal Arts College of Human Ecology Given its name, it's probably no surprise that College of the Atlantic focuses on ecological issues. Considering that the breathtaking campus is set on the ocean in Maine, it becomes clear just how central the natural environment is to the school. COA seeks to nurture in its students a conservation ethic, environmental concern and social activism enabling them to visualize and contribute to a more sustainable, just and balanced world. Human Ecology, the theme that defines the College's unique liberal studies program, is investigated and studied from many viewpoints and approaches. Each student designs an individualized program of study, and works closely with their peers and professors in small classes and on special projects. They receive individual evaluations of their work in addition to (optional) grades. College of the Atlantic was founded by individuals deeply concerned with sustaining the natural world. These founding trustees believed there was a longing among students and faculty to focus their studies of everything from physics to public polity to poetry on understanding the relationships between humans and our environment. Sustainability on campus and in the world have always been at the heart of the COA mission. COA's environmental commitment does not stem top-down from the office of the president, the sustainability coordinator, or from pressure from the students. Sustainability at COA is a systemic effort that flows from every member of the community: from the kitchen to buildings and grounds, to the courses faculty teach, to the community the students uphold. The academic philosophy of COA includes Integrative Thinking: the ability to confront complex situations and respond to them as systemic wholes with interconnected and interdependent parts and Interdisciplinarity: the ability to think, research, and communicate within and across disciplines while recognizing the strengths and limitations of each disciplinary approach. Students are given a significant role in the school administration and campus government, which fosters a strong sense of responsibility and commitment. The very liberal student body is activist, intelligent and tolerant. Internships are required at COA. Recent internships include work at Acadia National Park, Bimini Biological Field Station, Friends of the Earth, New Alchemy Institute, World Peace Camp and the Solar Energy Research Institute. The campus boasts a new center for regional and international studies as well as two island lighthouse field stations. The College is the home of Allied Whale, a marine mammal research center as well as an 86-acre organic farm. The residence hall provides on-campus housing for 100 students. Interior fixtures and finishes are environmentally sensitive, emphasizing minimal environmental impact and maximum energy efficiency. The College is located in the town of Bar Harbor on Mount Desert Island, connected to the mainland by a causeway. COA's curriculum and the political-social climate of the island encourage students to join with residents in developing land-use policies to insure the islands uniqueness will be preserved. The stunning beauty of the natural surroundings offers a unique setting and sparks a deep affection for outdoor activities. |
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