Curious about studying MSc Tropical Marine Biologyat University of Essex? We've gathered all the key details—entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Hear from real students by checking out reviews, or take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
Master of Science - MSc
University of Essex
Full Time
Oct 2027
1 Year
Coral reefs are the most species-rich marine habitats, and also among the most threatened. Rapid global change has the potential to cause significant harm to these unique ecosystems and impact the local and global resources they provide.By studying MSc Tropical Marine Biology in our School of Life Sciences you will enjoy a unique training experience, designed to provide you with the specific tools to study and protect fragile marine systems.Our multidisciplinary course is delivered entirely by research-active academics who are among the leaders of their respective disciplines. Advanced theory in tropical marine biology is complemented by practical skills training in quantitative methods, data analytics, field survey techniques and a comprehensive range of the practical and professional skills required by today’s employers.During a field trip to Indonesia you can put theory into practice by studying coral reef conservation in action (subsidised, with a variable element to be paid by the student). Or, we can help you to identify your ideal work placement or equivalent project in the UK.
Your dissertation is the culmination of your academic career so far. You will be provided with appropriate training relevant to your area of research, enabling you to compile a detailed report in the format of a scientific paper (100% of project mark).
This module aims to widen the understanding of tropical marine systems, the diversity of organisms that exist, the roles they play as well as the fundamental biological processes that enable these organisms to thrive. Explore four main tropical habitats: coral reefs, tropical oceans, seagrass beds, and mangrove systems, and discover the key functional roles of photosynthetic producers (corals, algae, cyanobacteria, plants) and heterotrophic consumers (planktonic, benthic and pelagic invertebrates and vertebrates). Learn how to evaluate ecological and biogeochemical processes within tropical marine systems and their productivity, connectivity and resilience. This module has been designed to enable students to integrate their subject knowledge with an understanding of sustainable development, acquiring the skills and competencies essential for addressing the urgent sustainability challenges of the 21st century.
This module explores the mariculture and fisheries in tropical seas as well as the biotechnological 'treasure chest' provided by marine microbes, algae and invertebrates. This module has been designed to enable students to integrate their subject knowledge with an understanding of sustainable development, acquiring the skills and competencies essential for addressing the urgent sustainability challenges of the 21st century.
The overall aim of this module is to sharpen the skill base in practical research by introducing a range of methodologies to aid in the investigation of marine processes. The focus is on research planning, data collection, analysis and visualisation, and development of key cross-disciplinary skills (multi-disciplinarity, data management, numeracy, and translating research into practice) which will help you effectively operate as a professional marine scientist. This module has been designed to enable you to integrate your subject knowledge with an understanding of sustainable development, acquiring the skills and competencies essential for addressing the urgent sustainability challenges of the 21st century.
In this career-focused module, you develop skills specific to your discipline, such as critical analysis, integration and communication in a multidisciplinary research environment. The seminars and workshops will assist with integrating your subject knowledge by developing your writing and presenting skills, cover CV and application clinics, introduce the steps required to create effective vodcasts and provide opportunities for networking with alumni of your course. This module has been designed to acquire the skills and competencies essential for addressing the urgent sustainability challenges of the 21st century.
This module provides you with the opportunity to improve your data analysis and visualisation skills. The ability to critically analyse raw data, and to communicate findings from these analyses in appropriate formats in a multidisciplinary research environment, provides the foundation for your successful career in environmental sciences.
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