About this course
On this unique 2-year Marine Environment and Resources MSc, you’ll study at the University of 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 and partner universities in France, Spain and Belgium. You’ll develop the in-depth knowledge and skills to assess and manage the marine environment, putting you in a great position for a successful career in the marine sector.
On this master’s course you’ll split your time between the University of 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 and our partner universities in the Marine Environment and Resources (MER) Consortium:
- Universidad del Pais Vasco/Euskal Herriko Unibertsitatea, Spain
- Université de Bordeaux 1, France
- University of Liège, Belgium
- Universidade dos A?ores, Portugal
You’ll develop your ability to think through complex issues, analyse the marine environment and its resources, and ensure that marine development is sustainable.
Through compulsory modules you’ll gain a thorough knowledge of biological, physical and chemical oceanography, as well as marine geology.
A wide range of optional modules will allow you to develop your own specialism. Typical subjects include:
- integrated coastal zone management
- the assessment of marine ecosystem health
- protection and recovery of marine and estuary environments
- competitive and responsible fisheries management
You could also choose to learn about topics such as deep sea ecology, large-scale ocean processes, and satellite oceanography.
The course is taught in English, but you’ll be able to study local languages for free during your time with our partner universities.
The course was created in response to the EU’s European Marine Strategy and Water Framework Directive, designed to better protect the European marine environment and the resources upon which marine-related economic and social activities depend.
Fees for this course are paid through the MER Consortium. Find out about fees and how to pay them on the MER Consortium website.
We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.
天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).
Course lead
Your course leader at the University of 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 is Maria Cecilia D’Angelo, Associate Professor. Read Dr D'angelo’s staff profile to find out more about his work.
Learn more about this subject area
Course location
This course is based at Waterfront (National Oceanography Centre 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载).
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载.
天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
You’ll need a 2:1 degree in:
- chemistry
- biology
- physics
- earth and environmental sciences
- engineering
- oceanography
- maths
Find the equivalent international qualifications for your country.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
Pre-masters
If you don’t meet the academic requirements, you can complete a pre-master's programme through our partnership with OnCampus. Learn more about the programmes available.
Recognition of professional experience
If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.
Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
This is a full-time master’s course that lasts for 2 years. You’ll spend equal amounts at the University of 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 and our 3 partner universities.
Semester 1 is at either the University of 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 or the University of Bordeaux 1.
Semester 2 is at the University del Pais Vasco.
If you were at the University of Bordeaux 1 in semester 1, semester 3 will be at either the University of 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 or the University of Liege.
If you were at the University of 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 for semester 1, Semester 3 will be at the University of Liege.
You'll learn in English.
Semesters 1 to 3 are made up of modules that everyone on the course studies, and modules that we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options.
In Semester 4 you’ll work independently on your research project.
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
Introduction to Biological Oceanography
Introduction to general aspects of biological oceanography from phytoplankton to fish. The module is designed for students with no previous experience of studying biological systems. The module follows the flow of energy from light, via primary producer...
Introduction to Chemical Oceanography
The module is designed for graduates in any science discipline embarking on postgraduate studies in Ocean and Earth Science.
Introduction to Marine Geology
This course will cover the formation of ocean basins; the role of mid-ocean ridges in basin scale processes; structure and geological processes at continental margins; sedimentary processes within and on the boundaries of ocean basins; and the past histor...
Introduction to Physical Oceanography
The module provides an introduction to the physics of the ocean including aspects of both descriptive and dynamical physical oceanography. The focus is on the understanding of physical processes which control the movement of water, heat, salt and other pr...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 1:
Advanced Exploration Geophysics
The module covers, at advanced level, three topics that are central to applied geophysics in the marine environment.
Biogeochemical Cycles in the Earth System
This module looks at the operation of the Ocean as a biogeochemical entity within the larger Earth System. There is a strong focus on how the Earth System will respond to anthropogenic impacts and global change.
Biological Data Science in R
Biological data science is a rapidly evolving field at the intersection of biology, statistics, and computer science. There is a growing demand for professionals skilled in analysing and interpreting data as well as an expectation that students will be fa...
Computational Data Analysis for Ocean and Earth Scientists
The module will present a variety of different types of oceanographic, meteorological, geophysical, and remote sensing data and will explore methods for processing, analysing and modelling using Python. This module introduces you to the essential skill...
Deep Sea Ecology
This module examines the patterns of life in deep-sea environments & the processes that govern those patterns.
Marine Conservation and Policy
This module is only open to Year 3 students registered on MSci Biology and Marine Biology, BSc Biology and Marine Biology, BSc Marine Biology with Oceanography, MSci Marine Biology and Oceanography, MSci Marine Biology and BSc Marine Biology degrees. MSc ...
Shelf Seas and Shelf Edge Dynamics
Year 2 modules
You must choose your modules from the following modules in year 2:
Advanced Exploration Geophysics
The module covers, at advanced level, three topics that are central to applied geophysics in the marine environment.
Biogeochemical Cycles in the Earth System
This module looks at the operation of the Ocean as a biogeochemical entity within the larger Earth System. There is a strong focus on how the Earth System will respond to anthropogenic impacts and global change.
Biological Data Science in R
Biological data science is a rapidly evolving field at the intersection of biology, statistics, and computer science. There is a growing demand for professionals skilled in analysing and interpreting data as well as an expectation that students will be fa...
Computational Data Analysis for Ocean and Earth Scientists
The module will present a variety of different types of oceanographic, meteorological, geophysical, and remote sensing data and will explore methods for processing, analysing and modelling using Python. This module introduces you to the essential skill...
Deep Sea Ecology
This module examines the patterns of life in deep-sea environments & the processes that govern those patterns.
Marine Conservation and Policy
This module is only open to Year 3 students registered on MSci Biology and Marine Biology, BSc Biology and Marine Biology, BSc Marine Biology with Oceanography, MSci Marine Biology and Oceanography, MSci Marine Biology and BSc Marine Biology degrees. MSc ...
Shelf Seas and Shelf Edge Dynamics
Learning and assessment
Learning
The learning activities for this course include:
- lectures, tutorials and seminars
- presentations
- laboratory work
- field visits
- boat work
- group work
- independent learning (studying on your own)
Assessment
We’ll assess you through:
- computer and laboratory exercises
- a research project
- essays and reports
- presentations
- written exams
Dissertation
In your final semester you’ll carry out a piece of independent research on a topic of your choice, in agreement with your supervisor. You’ll submit your findings in a 50-page dissertation.
The project is a chance for you to develop your research skills and show in-depth knowledge in a particular area.
You’ll have regular support meetings with your supervisor throughout the process.
Academic Support
We'll assign you a personal academic tutor, and you'll have access to a senior tutor.
Careers and employability
Employability skills
This degree will allow you to develop and evidence subject-specific and targeted employability skills. This includes the required skill set for a range of future careers, further study, or starting your own business.
The skills you can expect to focus on and gain from this course include:
- Research
- Critical thinking
- Communication
- Creativity
The employability and enterprise skills you'll gain from this course are reflected in the 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 skills model. When you join us you'll be able to use our skills model to track, plan, and benefit your career development and progress.
天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 skills overview
Career pathways
Graduates commonly work in a range of organisations or sectors including:
Laboratories,
Charities,
Government Organisations,
Higher education,
Think Tanks.
- Marine ecologist
- Reef restoration project manager
- Marine biology technician
- Fishery data manager
- Environmental engineer
- Consultant in marine ecology
- Marine biotechnologist
- Marine policy expert
- Marine conservation officer
- Aquaculture biologist
- Researcher
- University lecturer
- Marine scientist
- Fisheries officer
- Meteorologist
- Water engineer
- Geophysicist
- Hydrogeologist
- Environmental consultant
- Geospatial analyst
- Ecologist
- Climate change officer
- Conservation agriculture project manager
- Environment and sustainability analyst
- Surveyor
- Planning analyst
- Sustainably projects officer
- Waste minimisation officer
Job prospects for MSc Marine Environment and Resources graduates
*Example graduate job titles and job prospect statistics taken from The Graduate Outcomes Survey, which gathers information about the activities and perspectives of graduates 15 months after finishing their course.
Work experience opportunities
Choosing to do work experience is a great way to enhance your employability, build valuable networks, and evidence your potential. Learn about the different work and industry experience options at 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载.
Careers services and support
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). 天发娱乐棋牌_天发娱乐APP-官网|下载 Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV and interview skills and workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Your career ideas and graduate job opportunities may change while you're at university. So it is important to take time to regularly reflect on your goals, speak to people in industry and seek advice and up-to-date information from Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise professionals at the University.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay ?4,690.
- EU and international students pay ?11,596.
What your fees pay for
For information about fees and how to pay them, see the MER Consortium website.
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.
Explore:
Funding your postgraduate studies
A variety of additional funding options may be available to help you pay for your master’s study. Both from the University and other organisations.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
You can apply directly through the MER Consortium application form using the apply button on this page.
Application deadlines
Contact the MER Consortium for information about application deadlines.
Supporting information
When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course.
You’ll need to include information about:
- your knowledge of the subject area
- why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
- how you intend to use your qualification
You'll also need to submit two academic references.
Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.
What happens after you apply
Your application will be processed by the MER Consortium.
Unfortunately, due to number of applications we receive, we may not be able to give you specific feedback on your application if you are unsuccessful.
We'll invite shortlisted candidates to a selection day, which includes an interview. You'll get an email from the admissions tutor if you're invited to the selection day. This will include information on how to prepare and what to expect during the session.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
