Want to know what it's like to study this course at uni? We've got all the key info, from entry requirements to the modules on offer. If that all sounds good, why not check out reviews from real students or even book onto an upcoming open days?
MSc - Master of Science
Colchester Campus
Full Time
SEP-25
1 year
Select a course option
MSc - Master of Science
Colchester Campus
Full Time
SEP-25
1 year
Select a an exam type
Our ocean is the largest connected system on Earth, but it is under increasing pressure from expanding human activities and the climate crisis. As a future expert in marine science you will learn to identify sustainable development opportunities and assist conservation science, ‘blue economy' industries, and ocean governance.
Our MSc Marine Science and Sustainable Development course aligns with the United Nations' Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development to build relevant expertise and reverse the cycle of decline in ocean health. While critically examining the structure, function and benefits of marine systems in our taught modules in our School of Life Sciences, you will also have access to modules provided by our Department of Government, which is ranked 6th in the UK for research power (Times Higher Education research power measure, Research Excellence Framework 2021), before embarking on a work placement with government, industry or non-government organisations to conduct an independent research project over the summer.
You will learn to develop your networks including carefully selected research providers, decision-makers and stakeholders with whom you can design and adapt existing policy to mitigate the impact of environmental change. Your developing skills will be underpinned by policy-oriented projects within our School of Life Sciences, support to find your own external placement, or a project with one of our external partners. Examples include collaborations with:
?The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association – setting standards for the ornamental aquatic industry
?The Centre for Environment, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Science (
You will benefit from the vast breadth of research carried out by our internationally recognised academics, and will engage with research activities of our School both in the UK and abroad.
Specifically, you will explore topics including:
?Adaptation strategies, mitigation strategies and science-informed policy responses.
?The state of the environment and the politics of environmental challenges
?Characteristics of marine environments and anthropogenic pressures
Sustainable marine resource management and conservation
A degree with a 2.2 in one of the following subjects: Environmental Sciences, Marine Biology, Marine Chemistry, Marine Ecology and Conservation, Marine Science, Oceanography, Tropical Biology or a 2:2 degree in any subject with three modules from the below list: Aquatic/Marine Ecology, Biodiversity, Conservation, Marine Science, Oceanography. We will also consider applicants with 2 out of the 3 above modules.
Students living in
Domestic
£10,000 per year
Students from Domestic
Fees will increase for each academic year of study.
£21,700 per year
Students from EU
Fees will increase for each academic year of study.
£21,700 per year
Students from International
Fees will increase for each academic year of study.
The University of Essex prides itself on being at the forefront of research innovation and global change....