The ocean plays a central role in the Earth’s climate system by regulating the transfer of heat and carbon over the globe. The effect of the ocean on Earth’s climate and on life can only be fully understood by addressing the fundamental biological, physical and chemical processes operating in the environment. This degree route takes a multidisciplinary approach to developing an understanding of the ocean and climate system.
We have strong links with scientists from the National Oceanography Centre in Liverpool, who provide guest lectures and supervision of projects.
Programme in detail
On the oceanography pathway you will acquire a broad interdisciplinary understanding of the ocean environment from a physical, chemical and biological perspective. The oceanography route is suitable if you don’t have a strong background in mathematics, physics or chemistry as remedial courses are provided.
Across this degree programme, you will gain an understanding of how the climate is changing, how the atmosphere and oceans transport heat in the climate system, how nutrients and carbon are cycled over the globe, how plankton growth and fisheries are sustained, the effects of ocean acidification, and how life operates in the dynamic ocean environment.
This degree programme has an important focus on practical aspects of marine science and will provide grounding in hands-on quantitative studies of biological, chemical and physical marine science. There will be the opportunity to participate in field/project work throughout the course of your studies, as well as a full sea practical during Year Three. You will undertake a major research project in your final year.
The degree in Ocean Sciences at Liverpool is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology.
Fieldwork opportunities
A number of the School’s degree programmes involve laboratory and field work. The field work is carried out in various locations, ranging from inner city to coastal and mountainous environments. We consider applications from prospective disabled students on the same basis as all other students, and reasonable adjustments will be considered to address barriers to access.
Why this subject?
Be part of a group whose world-leading research is helping to tackle today’s greatest environmental challenges
Our multidisciplinary research is helping organisations such as the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea to develop sustainable management plans.
Bring your studies to life with laboratory and field teaching
Fieldwork for our Oceans Sciences degree programmes takes place in local coastal waters and elsewhere in the UK (for example we currently run field classes in North Wales and off the west coast of Scotland). Time spent in laboratory and in the field varies considerably depending on which program you are registered on. We consider applications from prospective students with disabilities on the same basis as all other students, and reasonable adjustments will be considered to address barriers to access.
Benefit from our excellent facilities and partnerships
Our unique partnership with the Marine Biological Association allows us access to their specialist staff, laboratories and research vessel. We also have close links with the National Oceanography Centre (NOC), based in Liverpool and access to custom-built remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs), and the award-winning Central Teaching Laboratories (CTL).
Be inspired by our culture of research excellence in a friendly environment
Project work, carried out within the research groups, will allow you to use research equipment and the latest techniques.
Apply for summer internships and placements
A number of paid summer internships are offered, working alongside an academic in the University, at the NOC or elsewhere. These present a great opportunity to develop data analysis and modelling skills that will help you achieve your future employment or study ambitions.
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