Ocean Sciences | Postgraduate Research - 2024 Entry

Program Overview

Bangor University's Ocean Sciences program offers postgraduate research opportunities in various specializations, including Shelf Sea and Coastal Processes, Biogeochemistry and Palaeoceanography, and Marine Ecosystems. Students conduct in-depth research under experienced faculty supervision, developing critical thinking, problem-solving, and research communication skills. The program prepares graduates for careers in academia, government, industry, and non-profit organizations.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

Overview:

The Ocean Sciences program at Bangor University offers postgraduate research opportunities in a variety of specializations within the field. Students can choose to focus on Shelf Sea and Coastal Processes, Biogeochemistry and Palaeoceanography, or Marine Ecosystems: Conservation and Resource Management. The program provides students with the opportunity to conduct in-depth research under the supervision of experienced faculty members using state-of-the-art facilities.

Objectives:

The program aims to:

• Equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct independent research in ocean sciences.
• Foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Develop strong research communication and presentation skills.
• Prepare students for careers in academia, government, industry, or non-profit organizations.

Program Description:

This program is research-intensive and requires students to develop and carry out a significant independent research project. Students work closely with their supervisor to design and conduct their research, analyze data, and write a thesis.

Duration:

• Full-time: 2 years (MPhil), 3 years (PhD)
• Part-time: 3 years (MPhil), 5 years (PhD)

Outline:

Program Content:

The program covers a wide range of topics in ocean sciences, including:

• Physical oceanography: the study of the physical properties and processes of the ocean, such as waves, currents, and tides.
• Chemical oceanography: the study of the chemical composition of the ocean and the processes that govern it.
• Biological oceanography: the study of the organisms that live in the ocean and the interactions between them and their environment.
• Marine geology: the study of the geology of the ocean floor and the processes that shape it.
• Marine conservation: the study of the management and conservation of marine resources.

Structure:

The program consists of a combination of coursework and research.

• Coursework: Students take a minimum of taught modules covering various aspects of ocean sciences.
• Research: Students conduct their own independent research project under the supervision of a faculty member.
The focus of the research project can be chosen by the student in consultation with their supervisor.

Assessment:

Assessment Methods:

• Coursework: Assessed through essays, reports, presentations, and exams.
• Research Project: Assessed through a written thesis and an oral examination.

Assessment Criteria:

The program uses a variety of assessment criteria to ensure that students are achieving the learning outcomes of the program. These criteria include:

• Depth of knowledge and understanding of ocean sciences
• Ability to conduct independent research
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Research communication and presentation skills
• Professionalism and work ethic

Teaching:

Teaching Methods:

The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and field trips.

Faculty:

The program is taught by a team of experienced faculty members who are active researchers in their field. The faculty members have a strong commitment to teaching and student learning.

Unique Approaches:

The program incorporates several unique approaches to teaching and learning, including:

• Problem-based learning: Students are encouraged to work on real-world problems in their research projects, allowing them to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Fieldwork: Students have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork experiences, which provide them with first-hand experience of the marine environment.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration: The program encourages collaboration between students and faculty from different disciplines, which allows them to gain a broader understanding of ocean sciences.

Careers:

Career Paths:

The program prepares students for careers in a variety of fields, including:

• Academic research
• Government agencies
• Environmental consulting
• Marine conservation organizations
• Oil and gas industry
• Renewable energy sector

Opportunities:

The program provides students with numerous opportunities to develop their career skills, including:

• Internships: Students can participate in internships with government agencies, environmental consultancies, and other organizations.
• Conferences: Students have the opportunity to present their research at national and international conferences.
• Networking: The program offers students opportunities to network with professionals in the field.

Other:

Research Vessel:

Students have access to the research vessel Prince Madog, which is equipped for a wide range of oceanographic research, including physical, chemical, and biological studies.

Aquaculture Facilities:

The program has access to state-of-the-art aquaculture facilities, which are used for research on marine organisms.