Welcome to the School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences at University of Maryland Eastern Shore. Our students, researchers and faculty address the problems of today with scientific solutions for tomorrow. We prepare the next generation of scientists to address challenges like extreme weather events, an issue greatly affecting food and agriculture. You will learn inside the classroom and outside, and in the research field — experiences that give you a real-world and global perspective.
Here, you will find support from mentors and peers to help you achieve your academic and career goals. Our three departments — Agriculture, Food and Resource Sciences; Human Ecology; and Natural Sciences — invite you to explore your opportunities to advance with us.
Dr. Moses T. Kairo, Dean of the School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences
Academic Departments
Undergraduate programs in pre-veterinary medicine, plant and soil science, animal and poultry science, agribusiness management, nutrition/dietetics, fashion merchandising, early child development, family and consumer sciences, biology, chemistry, biochemistry and environmental science are representative of the School of Agricultural and Natural Sciences’ varied curricula.
Graduate programs, at both the master’s and doctoral levels, are offered in marine estuarine and environmental sciences (M.S., Ph.D.) food and agricultural sciences (M.S.), food science and technology (Ph.D.), and toxicology (Ph.D.). A human ecology (M.S.) program is offered online. Strong research and extension programs are integrated with the school’s academic programming.
Our students are supported academically and with experiential learning through the School’s Center for Student Excellence.
Our Success Stories
139th Spring Commencement: Congratulations Grads!
Photos by Todd Dudek/UMES Ag Communication
Agricultural Experiment Station
Our UMES Agricultural Experiment Station provides enhanced knowledge and technology to improve agriculture and food systems; enhance the quality of natural resources and the environment; and serve families and consumers. University of Maryland Eastern Shore researchers are focused on 5 areas:
- Human Health and Development
- Natural Resources and Environment
- Agriculture and Food
- Product Development
- International Engagement
University of Maryland Eastern Shore Extension
From small farms to food safety to family health and nutrition to STEM skills development for youth, University of Maryland Eastern Shore Extension experts can help with research-based solutions.
University of Maryland Eastern Shore Extension works closely with Maryland farmers, watermen, schools, community organizations and individuals — especially those on the Eastern Shore. Take part in our variety of events and learning opportunities.
Our 4-H STEM educators provide Eastern Shore youth with hands-on, immersive experiences.
Learn about healthy lifestyles for families with our nutrition specialists.
Our Impact
News
- UMES poultry pioneer impacted research, pipeline of professionals
- UMES researcher advances PFAS studies with grants, invention
- UMES Ag Showcase offers latest in crop trials and research
Rising oil prices threaten global food security
People Fixing The World: Super Seagrass
Seagrass meadows are one of the world’s most valuable underwater habitats. A University of Maryland Eastern Shore team led by Dr. Stephen Tomasetti, director of the Paul S. Sarbanes Coastal Ecology Center, took BBC reporter Ben Wyatt out into Sinepuxent Bay to see how UMES scientists are looking at a technique called “assisted gene flow” to help seagrass adapt and survive in warming waters. The segment was featured in the BBC podcast titled “People Fixing The World: Super Seagrass.” The UMES team included Dr. Tomasetti, Ph.D. student Katie Tanner and Captain Chris Daniels.
Happenings
Aug. 12: Ag Showcase 2026 at UMES
Oct. 23-24: 23rd Annual Small Farm Conference
Nov. 15-17: Maryland Agritourism Conference
Connect with Us
