COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc Marine Science course offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary foundation in oceanographic and ecological sciences, combined with strong technical and research-based training. Students develop expertise in key areas such as marine conservation, habitat ecology, fisheries management, and the role of oceans in regulating the global climate, while gaining practical experience in fieldwork and data analysis. The course explores climate and climate change by examining Earth’s climate system, ocean circulation, past and future climate trends, and mitigation strategies, enabling students to understand rapid global warming and its far-reaching impacts. Habitat ecology and coastal survey training focuses on ecological principles and survey techniques for coastal environments, delivered through group fieldwork, data analysis, and professional-style reporting in a consultancy-based setting in north Wales. Marine conservation and coastal zone management modules build multidisciplinary skills by addressing socio-economic factors, legal frameworks, and integrated management approaches to real-world conservation challenges. The study of marine fisheries introduces global fisheries systems, ecological impacts, stock assessment methods, and science communication using practical exercises and applied reporting. Marine renewable energy modules provide insight into renewable technologies, resource assessment, and environmental impacts, linking industry practice with wave and tidal dynamics. Practical oceanography strengthens skills in field observation, data collection, signal processing, GIS, and numerical modelling through hands-on research cruises and laboratory-based sessions.