MSc Marine Science and Sustainable Development
University of Essex
Student rating
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( 4.2) View reviews

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Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

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Location

Colchester Campus

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Study mode

Full Time

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Start date

SEP-25

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Duration

1 year

Course info

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Qualification

MSc - Master of Science

Location

Colchester Campus

Study mode

Full Time

Start date

SEP-25

Duration

1 year

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Course info

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 ...Read more

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:

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The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association – setting standards for the ornamental aquatic industry

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The Centre for Environment, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Science (

  • Cefas
  • ) in Lowestoft, Suffolk – the marine and freshwater agency of the Government's Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)

    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:

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    Adaptation strategies, mitigation strategies and science-informed policy responses.

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    The state of the environment and the politics of environmental challenges

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    Characteristics of marine environments and anthropogenic pressures

    Sustainable marine resource management and conservation

    Key stats

    WUSCA ranking:
    WUSCA student ranking
    These are the 2024 rankings, based on ratings given by past and current students.
    35/101
    CUG Subject Ranking
    CUG Subject Ranking
    Source: Complete University Guide 2025
    45th
    CUG Ranking
    CUG Ranking
    Source: Complete University Guide 2025
    30th
    What students say
    T
    Ty
    28 Feb 24

    I am currently doing a semester abroad at the University of Essex, as I am from Canada. So far my time here has been pleasant, as the campus and classes have been good, and have..Read more

    K
    Komal
    28 Feb 24

    University is way better and well maintained with good staff support and student union...just there is issue with location transport where in evening during dark time its hard to..Read more

    Modules

    Modules (Year 1)
    Modules (Year 1)
    IDP Connect

    Entry requirements

    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.

    Tuition fees

    Students living in

    Domestic

    £10,000 per year

    This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
    Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

    Students from Domestic

    This is the fee you pay if the University is in the same country that you live in (England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland)

    Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

    £21,700 per year

    This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
    Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

    Students from EU

    The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from somewhere in the EU.

    Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

    £21,700 per year

    This information is updated by IDP Connect, or in some cases the institution directly.
    Please note: The fees might vary so please make sure you contact the institution for up to date information.

    Students from International

    The amount you'll pay if you come to study here from a country outside the EU.

    Fees will increase for each academic year of study.

    IDP Connect

    Latest reviews

    Latest Marine Biology reviews

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    T
    Ty
    28 Feb 24
    Marine Biology (Including Year Abroad) BSc (Hons)
    I am currently doing a semester abroad at the University of Essex, as I am from Canada. So far my time here has been pleasant, as the campus and classes have been good, and have...
    Read more
    K
    Komal
    28 Feb 24
    MSc Tropical Marine Biology
    University is way better and well maintained with good staff support and student union...just there is issue with location transport where in evening during dark time its hard to...
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    Uni info

    University of Essex
    University of Essex , Colchester

    The University of Essex prides itself on being at the forefront of research innovation and global change....

    Student rating
    ( 4.2) View reviews
    CUG ranking
    30th
    University of Essex
    University of Essex Wivenhoe Park Colchester Essex CO4 3SQ United Kingdom
    Nearest train station: Hythe   0.6 miles away

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