COURSE CURRICULUM

The program offers a wide-ranging and flexible curriculum that equips students with essential scientific and practical skills in marine science. In September, students complete mandatory modules in Applied Research Design and Analysis and Oceanography, which build core competencies in scientific investigation and understanding ocean systems. They can then choose from a broad selection of optional modules, including Environmental Processes, Introduction to Marine Planning, Marine Renewable Energy Technology, Marine Resources and Sustainability, Diversity of Marine Organisms, Marine Ecotoxicology, Climate Change and Adaptation, Transition Engineering, and Fisheries Sustainability, allowing them to tailor their learning to specific areas of interest within marine and environmental science. In January, students take the mandatory module GIS for Marine and Environmental Scientists, developing valuable spatial analysis skills used widely in marine research and management. Additional January optional modules include Tropical and Coral Reefs, Science Communication, Marine Environmental Monitoring, Environmental Evidence Synthesis, Equity and Ecosystems, Marine Vertebrate Ecology, Renewable Technology Commercialisation, Energy Transition Lab, and Practical Marine Surveying, offering both scientific depth and applied industry-relevant training. The program concludes in May with the ILES Environment Dissertation, where students undertake an independent research project on a specialised marine science topic. Collectively, these modules provide a strong foundation for careers in marine research, environmental management, conservation, and policy.