Marine Environment and Resources (MSc)

You’ll need a 2:1 degree in: 

• chemistry 
• biology 
• physics 
• earth and environmental sciences 
• engineering 
• oceanography 
• maths 

English language requirements

If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need an overall score of 6.5 and the following scores for reading, writing, listening and speaking:

We accept other English language tests, find out which English language tests we accept.

Recognition of professional experience

If you don't have the exact entry requirements, but you have significant work experience in this sector we’ll assess your relevant professional experience, your subject knowledge and your aptitude for learning.

Your application will be considered on individual merit and you may be asked to attend an interview.

Got a question?

If you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course please contact our enquiries team; we're very happy to help.

This is a full-time master’s course that lasts for 2 years. You’ll spend equal amounts at the University of Southampton and our 3 partner universities.

Semester 1 is at either the University of Southampton or the University of Bordeaux 1. 

Semester 2 is at the University del Pais Vasco. 

If you were at the University of Bordeaux 1 in semester 1, semester 3 will be at either the University of Southampton or the University of Liege. 

If you were at the University of Southampton for semester 1, Semester 3 will be at the University of Liege.

You'll learn in English.

Semesters 1 to 3 are made up of modules that everyone on the course studies, and modules that we’ll ask you to choose from a list of options. 

In Semester 4 you’ll work independently on your research project. 

Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.

Learning

The learning activities for this course include: 

• lectures, tutorials and seminars
• presentations 
• laboratory work 
• field visits 
• boat work 
• group work 
• independent learning (studying on your own) 

Assessment

We’ll assess you through: 

• computer and laboratory exercises 
• a research project 
• essays and reports 
• presentations 
• written exams 

Dissertation

In your final semester you’ll carry out a piece of independent research on a topic of your choice, in agreement with your supervisor. You’ll submit your findings in a 50-page dissertation. 

The project is a chance for you to develop your research skills and show in-depth knowledge in a particular area. 

You’ll have regular support meetings with your supervisor throughout the process. 

Academic Support

We'll assign you a personal academic tutor, and you'll have access to a senior tutor.

Employers in the public and private sectors need good graduates as managers, planners, policy-makers, researchers and advisers who can make a difference in marine environmental resource management. 

After successfully graduating from this course, you’ll be well-placed for leadership roles in marine sectors such as: 

• conservation and environmental management 
• fisheries 
• non-governmental organisations 
• local, national or international government 

You’ll also be in a great position to continue your studies at PhD level. 

Careers services at Southampton

We're a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2019). Our Careers and Employability Service will support you throughout your time as a student and for up to 5 years after graduation. This support includes:

• work experience schemes
• CV/resume and interview skills workshops
• networking events
• careers fairs attended by top employers
• a wealth of volunteering opportunities
• study abroad and summer school opportunities

We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture. You'll be able to take advantage of:

• our dedicated start-up incubator, Futureworlds
• a wide variety of enterprise events run throughout the year
• our partnership in the world’s number 1 business incubator, SETsquared

Tuition fees

What your fees pay for

Your tuition fee covers the full cost of tuition and all examinations.

For information about fees and how to pay them, see the MER Consortium website.

Funding your postgraduate studies

A variety of additional scholarships, grants and bursaries  may be available to help you fund your master’s study, both from the University and from other organisations.

You can apply directly through the MER Consortium application form using the apply button on this page.

Application deadlines

You must get your application to us by the end of the day on 15 June 2020. You must supply all supporting documentation at least 2 weeks before starting your course.

We cannot guarantee you'll be able to start your course if you do not meet these deadlines.

Supporting information

When you apply you’ll need to submit a personal statement explaining why you want to take the course. 

You’ll need to include information about: 

• your knowledge of the subject area
• why you want to study a postgraduate qualification in this course
• how you intend to use your qualification

You'll also need to send 2 academic references. 

Please include the required paperwork showing your first degree and your IELTS English language test score (if you are a non-native English speaker) with your application. Without these, your application may be delayed.

Learn more about how to apply with our postgraduate application guide.

What happens after you apply

You'll be able to track your application through our online Applicant Record System.

We will assess your application on the strength of your:

• academic achievements
• relevant professional experience
• personal statement
• academic references

We'll get back to you within 6 weeks with a decision about your application.

We'll invite shortlisted candidates to a selection day, which includes an interview. You'll get an email from the admissions tutor if you're invited to the selection day. This will include information on how to prepare and what to expect during the session.

Equality and diversity

We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.

Got a question?

Please contact us if you're not sure you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.

Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000