Program Overview

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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. Our MSc Tropical Marine Biology course will introduce you to the unique resources found in tropical oceans through modules focusing on:

• The biotechnological ‘treasure chest’ of marine microbes, algae and invertebrates. What processes underpin a healthy marine ecosystem? How can we use microbes to clean up pollution and make new eco-friendly materials from aquaculture waste?
• Quantitative analysis of ecological processes in the tropical oceans, from seagrass beds and mangroves to coral reefs and artificial communities growing on man-made structures. How do you measure and compare populations and communities?
• Coral reef resource management and conservation. How can local communities protect coral reefs while practising traditional activities and sustainably harvesting food?

In addition to taught modules covering these topics and more, you will embark on an extensive research project under the supervision of an expert at the forefront of their field. You will have the freedom to choose the subject of your project, which can be conducted in field, within our new aquatic biology research facility, in a working academic research laboratory on campus or alongside one of our research partners across the globe. The project is your chance to develop the specific experience that you will need to go into employment generating ecological survey data, prospecting for pharmaceuticals, practising data analytics, GIS mapping or directing environmental policy. Visit our MSc Marine Science and Sustainable Development course page for information about our other marine postgraduate degree.

Sustainability at Essex

To learn about the initiatives and actions the University of Essex is taking to tackle the climate and biodiversity crises, visit our sustainability page . Why we're great.

• Develop the quantitative transferrable skills that are demanded by employers in the environmental sciences sector.
• Get hands-on experience of coral reef conservation in Indonesia and in brand new aquatic biology aquaria on campus.
• Understand the ‘big picture’ of marine conservation, from genes to ecosystems and from ecology to industrial applications.

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Our expert staff

As one of the largest schools at our University, we offer a lively, friendly and supportive environment with research-led study and high-quality teaching. You will benefit will from the wide expertise of our research-active academics and their pioneering work on marine issues of national and global importance. Current research topics include nationally and internationally recognised work on movement of life in the oceans , contributions to climate change from aquatic systems , sustainable fisheries and deep-sea biology . Our School houses expertise in community ecology of coral reefs, tropical marine biology and conservation, coral stress physiology , aquatic community ecology, fisheries, pollution, biological materials , nutrient cycling and ecological and evolutionary responses to global change , with contributions to international research efforts in all of these areas. We are proud that one third of students at the University of Essex are from outside of the UK. The University has a Women's Network to support female staff and students, and the School of Life Sciences has been awarded the Athena Swan Silver Award (2020) reflecting the work carried out by staff in our School to improve equality, including a mentorship scheme, support for postdoctoral research staff and financial help towards childcare costs for academics who wish to attend conferences.

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Specialist facilities

Our School of Life Sciences contains fantastic, modern facilities for bioscience research. Most of the techniques we use routinely are available, where appropriate, to our students during their research projects. All laboratory spaces are shared, meaning that you will work alongside your fellow students, PhD students and even post-doctoral researchers. Recent investments in research infrastructure include cutting edge bioimaging systems, videoscopy for behavioural research, brand new recirculating aquaria in the aquatic biology research labs and numerous accessory facilities for aquatic community ecology, photosynthesis and eco-physiology research.

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Your future

As mankind’s impacts on the environment become increasingly clear, the demand for qualified marine biologists continues to grow. Postgraduate study can be a requirement for a career in scientific research and help immensely when applying for jobs in consultancy, publishing, government, private industry or the third sector. Many of our Masters students progress into PhD study, and we offer numerous studentships to support this career path. Our graduates go on to a range of careers . Some work with governmental and non-governmental environmental agencies, organisations, consultancies and voluntary organisations, or go on to conduct doctoral research. Many overseas students return to comparable posts in their home country. We work with the University’s Careers Services to help you find out about further work experience, internships, placements, and voluntary opportunities.