MSc Applied Marine Science

Core modules

MAR513 Research Skills and Methods- This module aims to equip students with the practical skills and contextual framework for conducting high quality research. Emphasis is placed on workshop opportunities to acquire and practice research planning, analysis, communication, writing and oral presentation skills. 

MAR514 Marine Science- This module provides an introductory overview of basic oceanography including physical, chemical, geological and biological aspects of the subject. There is particular emphasis on methods of quantifying and predicting coastal conditions, as well as interplay between physical, chemical and biological aspects of ocean science.

MAR515 Management of Coastal Environments- This module introduces the process, method and framework used to manage change in coastal and marine environments. It will focus on Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) with emphasis on the importance of collectively considering physical, ecological and socio-economic factors and processes. It will illustrate the range of the management processes available using field-, lecture- and seminar-based case studies.

MAR516 Contemporary Issues in Marine Science- This module utilises acknowledged experts to teach students about 'hot topics' in their field of marine science. The content of this module will be dynamic and will evolve to keep up-to-date with the latest developments in marine science. Current indicative content might include climate change, sea level rise, coastal flooding, ocean acidification, coral bleaching, marine biofuels and developments in nanotechnology, for example.

MAR524 MSc Dissertation- The student will complete a research project that they have designed in the semester 1 research skills module. The project can be submitted in the format of a journal paper or dissertation. The write-up will communicate the project aims, methodology, data analysis, interpretation, synthesis and conclusions.

Optional modules

MAR507 Economics of the Marine Environment- This module will provide students with a clear overview of the problems associated with economic activity in marine environment and the potential solutions to these problems.

MAR517 Coastal Erosion and Protection- This module applies knowledge of waves and coastal processes to understand and predict coastal erosion and accretion. The hard and soft engineering methods used for coastal protection are covered, with an emphasis on how improved understanding of the natural processes (waves, currents, sediment transport) can improve coastal management decisions).

MAR518 Remote Sensing and GIS- This module introduces the principles of geographical information systems and remote sensing of marine, polar and coastal environments. Field data will be acquired using GPS and radiometric instrumentation. Emphasis is placed on the critical evaluation of remote sensing data and analysis tools in varied scenarios and on developing practical computing skills.

MAR519 Modelling Marine Processes- This module introduces the fundamental concepts of modelling marine processes. Emphasis will be placed on the mechanisms that drive marine environment and principles of their numerical implementation. The methods of modelling and the-state-of-the-art oceanic models are also introduced. The key element is development of practical skills in operation with numerical models and critical analysis of the model output.

MAR530 Managing Marine Ecosystems- The module will provide students with an understanding of marine ecosystems and their vulnerability to anthropogenic threats. Anticipatory and responsive management measures will be discussed, including relevant marine conservation agreements, legislation and policy.

Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.

The following programme specification(link is external) represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change.

Learning outcome:

You'll develop the skills required to assimilate knowledge over a wide range of disciplines and apply them to marine environmental assessment and management.

Objective:

• Join a long established (1991), well-respected programme with an excellent record for employment in the marine sciences sector.
• Develop confidence and competence in the theoretical and practical dimensions of marine science, deepening your scientific knowledge of the coastal environment and the pressures placed on it.
• Gain the skills and knowledge required to work as a marine scientist through a vocationally relevant programme, while also benefitting from our strong research-based teaching, supported by our marine research groups.
• Become experienced in coastal zone management using a range of practical techniques and approaches to problem solving.
• Connect with local marine organisations through the Plymouth Marine Sciences Partnership, which includes the University's Marine Institute, Marine Biological Association, Plymouth Marine Laboratory and the National Marine Aquarium.
• Make the most of our links to commercial consultancy companies, local councils and environmental organisations which can provide project ideas and supervision on your dissertation.
• Access an extensive range of field/laboratory equipment, including the COAST laboratories, our research vessel RV Falcon Spirit and a new waterfront marine centre.
• Build the skills required to assimilate knowledge over a wide range of disciplines and apply them to environmental analysis.
• Benefit from the option of studying this programme part time.