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Ocean and Earth Science by Research at University of Southampton - UCAS

Course summary

Join one of the largest marine science communities in Europe and a global top 100* university and address some of our biggest environmental challenges. You’ll train alongside scientists at a world-leading training centre as you conduct research both in the field and in the laboratory. You’ll study at the National Oceanography Centre Southampton (NOCS), our school for marine education and research. You’ll benefit from access to our very own research vessel, the R.V. Callisata, as well as a range of other modern technologies and facilities. You’ll have the chance to

  • Explore a diverse range of topics, from the processes operating on the Earth and its oceans to the impact of natural and human activity on ecosystems
  • Specialise your studies to better suit your background and career goals
  • Complete a research project using the latest marine environment knowledge
This course is especially suitable if you already have a foundation in marine or Earth science. It will allow you to develop a specialism from your first degree as you build your knowledge and research skills. A Master of Science by Research course differs from a conventional MSc in the balance between teaching and research. As an MSc by Research student, you’ll spend more time getting hands-on experience with your research project, and less time with formal teaching. You'll graduate primed to start your career or to continue your exploration in further research. *QS World University Rankings 2025

Modules

For a full list of modules, please visit our website.

Assessment method

At Southampton, assessments are designed to equip you with the skills you need for success in your career. On this course, you'll be assessed through a combination of written examinations, oral presentations, essays, poster presentations, laboratory experiment reports, and fieldwork/boat work reports.

Professional bodies

Professionally accredited courses provide industry-wide recognition of the quality of your qualification.

  • Marine Engineering, Science and Technology, Institute of

How to apply

International applicants

English language requirements: band G, IELTS 7.0 overall, with a minimum of 6.5 in all components.

Entry requirements

UK 2.1 Bachelor Hons degree or above or an equivalent standard in other qualifications approved by the University in a relevant marine or Earth science discipline. Other backgrounds may be considered (e.g. biology, maths, environmental science, natural sciences, relevant engineering disciplines) where the applicant’s background is relevant to the intended field of study.


English language requirements

TestGradeAdditional details
IELTS (Academic)7Band G: 7.0 with 6.5 in each component

Fees and funding

Tuition fees

No fee information has been provided for this course

Tuition fee status depends on a number of criteria and varies according to where in the UK you will study. For further guidance on the criteria for home or overseas tuition fees, please refer to the UKCISA website .

Additional fee information

Please see our website for further details and updates : www.southampton.ac.uk/uni-life/fees-funding.page

Sponsorship information

There are various funding options through scholarships, sponsors and awards listed on our funding website. These often depand on programme of study and may be specific to certain countries. https://www.southampton.ac.uk/courses/funding/postgraduate.page

Ocean and Earth Science by Research at University of Southampton - UCAS