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MSc Marine Science and Sustainable Development

The MSc Marine Science and Sustainable Development course is designed to align with the United Nations' Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development. This program aims to build relevant expertise and reverse the cycle of decline in ocean health.

Overview

• Course: Marine Science and Sustainable Development
• Start date: October 2026
• Study mode: Full-time
• Duration: 1 year
• Location: Colchester Campus
• Based in: Life Sciences (School of)

The program focuses on identifying sustainable development opportunities and assisting conservation science, 'blue economy' industries, and ocean governance. Students will critically examine the structure, function, and benefits of marine systems and have access to modules provided by the Department of Government.

Entry Requirements

UK Entry Requirements

• A 2:2 degree or international equivalent in subjects such as Environmental Sciences, Marine Biology, Marine Chemistry, Marine Ecology and Conservation, Marine Science, Oceanography, or Tropical Biology.
• Alternatively, a 2:2 degree in any subject with at least three modules from the list: Aquatic/Marine Ecology, Biodiversity, Conservation, Marine Science, or Oceanography.
• Applicants without the required subject or modules may be considered with at least 6 weeks' relevant work experience in marine/environmental science and/or conservation.

International & EU Entry Requirements

The University accepts a wide range of qualifications from applicants studying in the EU and other countries. International students should contact the Graduate Admissions team for specific requirements.

English Language Requirements

• IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum score of 5.5 in all components.
• Alternatively, completion of a pre-sessional English pathway may be possible.

Structure

The program consists of several components:

1. Marine Science Work Placement (60 credits): An opportunity to work with an organization on policies for sustainable development of marine resources.
2. Advanced Research Skills (30 credits): Provides research methods and analytical skills necessary for a research project.
3. Marine Resources (15 credits): Explores mariculture, fisheries, and biotechnological aspects of marine microbes, algae, and invertebrates.
4. Methods in Marine Biology (15 credits): Introduces methodologies for investigating marine processes, focusing on research planning, data collection, analysis, and visualization.
5. Postgraduate Professional Skills (15 credits): Develops skills specific to the discipline, including critical analysis, integration, and communication.
6. Data Analysis and Visualisation (15 credits): Improves data analysis and visualization skills, providing a foundation for a successful career in environmental sciences.
7. Optional Modules (35 credits): Students can choose from a list of available modules to tailor their program.

Teaching and Assessment

• Teaching methods include lectures, laboratory practicals, tutorials, seminars, optional fieldwork, independent reading, and research projects.
• Assessment is by coursework only, including essays, worksheets, verbal/visual presentations, and written reviews.
• Each student is assigned a personal tutor and a placement supervisor to guide their research project.

Fees and Funding

• Home/UK fee: ｣11,025
• International fee: ｣23,875
• Scholarships, bursaries, or discounts may be available to help with the cost of the course.

What's Next

After graduating, students become part of a growing community of practitioners in marine sustainable development, with sought-after skills for employment in the marine environment sector or further academic study. Many graduates go on to work with governmental and non-governmental environmental agencies, consultancies, or pursue doctoral research.