̽»¨ÉçÇø

The MSc Marine Science at ̽»¨ÉçÇø is an advanced, interdisciplinary programme designed for students who want to explore the complexity of the marine environment, from coastal ecosystems to global ocean processes. Combining ecological, physical, and computational approaches, this course equips graduates with the skills and knowledge needed to tackle pressing marine challenges, from climate change and fisheries management to renewable energy and coastal conservation.

Course highlights

• Interdisciplinary approach: gain expertise in physical oceanography, marine ecology, fisheries science, and renewable energy – choosing your own path through these subject areas.
• Field-based learning: participate in coastal and offshore research, working with real-world marine datasets.
• Research-led teaching: benefit from Bangor’s internationally recognised expertise in marine and environmental science.
• Career-ready skills: graduates are well-equipped for roles in environmental consultancy, marine policy, conservation, fisheries management, and scientific research.

This Marine Science MSc is ideal for students with backgrounds in marine science, environmental science, geography, biology, or related disciplines who are eager to deepen their understanding of marine systems and develop practical skills for careers in ocean and coastal management. If you are passionate about the marine environment and want to contribute to its conservation and sustainable use, this programme is for you.

What will you study on this course?

The MSc Marine Science provides a strong foundation in oceanographic and ecological principles while integrating key technical and research skills. You will be able to choose in developing expertise in marine conservation, habitat ecology, fisheries management, and the role of oceans in climate regulation, alongside hands-on training in fieldwork and data analysis.

Areas of study include:

• climate and climate change - explores Earth's climate system, past and future climate change, ocean circulation, and mitigation, helping you understand rapid warming and its global consequences.
• habitat ecology and coastal survey â€“ covers ecological survey principles and techniques for coastal habitats, applied through group fieldwork, analysis, and reporting in a consultancy-style environment in north Wales.
• marine conservation and coastal zone management - builds multidisciplinary skills to tackle marine conservation issues through socio-economic surveys, legal frameworks, and integrated coastal zone management, culminating in group presentations.
• marine fisheries – relates to global fisheries, their ecological impacts, stock assessment methods, and science communication through practicals and an info-sheet based on the FAO SOFIA report.
• marine renewable energy - this module explores marine renewable energy technologies, resources, and impacts, combining industry insight with key energy concepts, wave-tide dynamics, and environmental feedbacks.
• practical oceanography - develops skills in oceanographic fieldwork, data collection and analysis, signal processing, ArcGIS, and numerical modelling through a hands-on research cruise and practical sessions.

Hands-on learning and research opportunities

This MSc emphasises practical experience, with fieldwork opportunities in North Wales’ diverse coastal and marine environments, as well as offshore research cruises on ̽»¨ÉçÇø’s research vessel (weather permitting). You will develop key research skills, including GIS mapping, oceanographic modelling, and statistical analysis, ensuring you are well-prepared for careers in marine science, conservation, and industry.

Research Project

A key component of the programme is the conducting of an individual research project under the supervision of a relevant academic expert, and subsequent write-up as a journal-style paper. This provides an opportunity to apply your theoretical knowledge and technical skills to a specific marine science topic, with the potential to contribute to real-world conservation and management solutions.

Marine Science MSc graduates are well-equipped for roles in environmental consultancy, marine policy, conservation, fisheries management, and scientific research.