The way that the Earth behaves as a system results from interactions between the land, the oceans and the atmosphere.
Complex issues such as climate change, sea level rise and environmental pollution can only be fully understood if all the different facets of the Earth’s behaviour are considered. While the ocean sciences aspect deals with present day and future climate change scenarios, the link to physical geography provides an understanding of changes in climate over the last several thousand years to provide context for recent climate change. This was the first UK university programme to combine land, ocean and climate studies in an integrated programme of study.
Programme in detail
Your training will cover core topics in oceanography, physical geography, geology and ecology as well as modules in IT and communication skills.
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 your final year. Scientists from the National Oceanography Centre in Liverpool provide guest lectures and supervision of projects. Students without mathematics, physics or chemistry at A level are provided with remedial courses.
The degree in Geography and Oceanography 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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