Marine Academy of Science and Technology

The Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST), located in Highlands, New Jersey, is a highly regarded magnet high school that operates under the Monmouth County Vocational School District. Situated on Sandy Hook, the school leverages its unique coastal location to offer a specialized curriculum focused on marine biology, oceanography, and maritime engineering. As a designated National Blue Ribbon School, MAST is consistently ranked among the top public high schools in New Jersey, known for its rigorous academic standards and its commitment to preparing students for competitive collegiate programs and careers in STEM fields.

Beyond its core curriculum, MAST distinguishes itself through its mandatory Naval Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps (NJROTC) program, which emphasizes leadership, discipline, and community service. The school’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean and the Gateway National Recreation Area allows students to engage in extensive hands-on research and field studies that are unavailable at traditional high schools. By fostering an environment that balances intense academic inquiry with specialized maritime training, the academy provides a unique educational experience that emphasizes both intellectual growth and civic responsibility.