Program Overview

---

Our ocean is the largest connected system on Earth, but it is under increasing pressure from expanding human activities and the climate crisis. As a future expert in marine science you will learn to identify sustainable development opportunities and assist conservation science, ‘blue economy’ industries, and ocean governance. Our MSc Marine Science and Sustainable Development course aligns with the United Nations’ Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development to build relevant expertise and reverse the cycle of decline in ocean health. While critically examining the structure, function and benefits of marine systems in our taught modules in our School of Life Sciences, you will also have access to modules provided by our Department of Government, which is ranked 6th in the UK for research power (Times Higher Education research power measure, Research Excellence Framework 2021), before embarking on a work placement with government, industry or non-government organisations to conduct an independent research project over the summer. You will learn to develop your networks including carefully selected research providers, decision-makers and stakeholders with whom you can design and adapt existing policy to mitigate the impact of environmental change. Your developing skills will be underpinned by policy-oriented projects within our School of Life Sciences, support to find your own external placement, or a project with one of our external partners. Examples include collaborations with:

• The Ornamental Aquatic Trade Association – setting standards for the ornamental aquatic industry
• The Centre for Environment, Fisheries, and Aquaculture Science ( Cefas ) in Lowestoft, Suffolk – the marine and freshwater agency of the Government’s Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)

You will benefit from the vast breadth of research carried out by our internationally recognised academics, and will engage with research activities of our School both in the UK and abroad. Specifically, you will explore topics including:

• Adaptation strategies, mitigation strategies and science-informed policy responses.
• The state of the environment and the politics of environmental challenges
• Characteristics of marine environments and anthropogenic pressures
• Sustainable marine resource management and conservation

When you graduate from this course you will be part of the growing community of practitioners in marine sustainable development. You will have gained the most sought-after skills that make you well-placed for employment in the marine environment sector or provide an avenue for further academic study. Visit our MSc Tropical Marine Biology 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.

• You will benefit from a work placement with government, industry or a non-government organisation to conduct an independent research project over the summer.
• Access our extensive network of conservation organisations and cross-university expertise.
• Our curriculum is constantly evolving to reflect the latest findings and priorities in the field.

---

Our expert staff

As one of the largest departments at Essex, 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 aquaculture, community ecology of coastal seas, marine habitat restoration, the science-policy interface, effects of anthropogenic processes on marine ecosystems, fish and fisheries conservation and management, environmental biotechnology and environmental policy. 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.

---

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 project work. 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. On this course you have the opportunity to:

• Work in our open and friendly School, with shared staff-student social spaces
• Develop your practical skills through mapping habitats and use of Geographical Information Systems (GIS)
• Learn to use state-of-the-art research facilities

---

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 to study for their PhD, and we offer numerous studentships to support our students in their studies. 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.