Course summary

Coastal erosion. Threatened resources. Pollution. With increasing awareness of the importance of the world's oceans as a natural resource and of their role in the stability of the global climate and environment, marine science specialists are in high demand. Our vocational programme provides you with the scientific knowledge, skills and experience – together with practical field experience carried out with local marine partners and companies – you need for an exciting career in marine science.

• 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 Universities' 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 that 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 Station.

• 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.