The ocean plays a central role in the Earth’s climate system by regulating the transfer of heat and carbon over the globe. The effect of the ocean on Earth’s climate and on life can only be fully understood by addressing the fundamental biological, physical and chemical processes operating in the environment. This degree route takes a multidisciplinary approach to developing an understanding of the ocean and climate system.
We have strong links with scientists from the National Oceanography Centre in Liverpool, who provide guest lectures and supervision of projects.
The four-year master’s programme, (F710), is based on the same multidisciplinary approach as the three-year (F700) programme. In Year Four we go on to provide you with higher-level skills and knowledge required to work in a research or commercial environment and address the biggest challenges in ocean science. There is a strong emphasis on numerical skills, hands-on laboratory and fieldwork, and independent study.
You will have the opportunity to work with scientists from the National Oceanography Centre, Liverpool, who are international leaders in sea level science and shelf sea physics.
Programme in detail
The first three years follow BSc (Hons) degree programmes offered in ocean sciences, developing a strong, multidisciplinary foundation of knowledge and skills. Semester One of Year Four is focused on developing your knowledge and skills in laboratory techniques and data analysis, writing and reviewing research ideas, and discussing current research issues in ocean science.
The training in Semester One will provide you with the skills to conduct a major independent research project in Semester Two, which will be supervised by ocean scientists from the University and the National Oceanography Centre in Liverpool. This high-level training will prepare you with the critical thinking, communication and writing skills you will need to work in a research environment, as well as an awareness of the future challenges in ocean sciences.
The degree in Ocean Sciences at Liverpool is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology.
Fieldwork opportunities
A number of the School’s degree programmes involve laboratory and field work. The field work is carried out in various locations, ranging from inner city to coastal and mountainous environments. We consider applications from prospective disabled students on the same basis as all other students, and reasonable adjustments will be considered to address barriers to access.
Why this subject?
Be part of a group whose world-leading research is helping to tackle today’s greatest environmental challenges
Our multidisciplinary research is helping organisations such as the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change and the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea to develop sustainable management plans.
Bring your studies to life with laboratory and field teaching
Fieldwork for our Oceans Sciences degree programmes takes place in local coastal waters and elsewhere in the UK (for example we currently run field classes in North Wales and off the west coast of Scotland). Time spent in laboratory and in the field varies considerably depending on which program you are registered on. We consider applications from prospective students with disabilities on the same basis as all other students, and reasonable adjustments will be considered to address barriers to access.
Benefit from our excellent facilities and partnerships
Our unique partnership with the Marine Biological Association allows us access to their specialist staff, laboratories and research vessel. We also have close links with the National Oceanography Centre (NOC), based in Liverpool and access to custom-built remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs), and the award-winning Central Teaching Laboratories (CTL).
Be inspired by our culture of research excellence in a friendly environment
Project work, carried out within the research groups, will allow you to use research equipment and the latest techniques.
Apply for summer internships and placements
A number of paid summer internships are offered, working alongside an academic in the University, at the NOC or elsewhere. These present a great opportunity to develop data analysis and modelling skills that will help you achieve your future employment or study ambitions.
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