MSci Marine Sciences

Key details

MSCI MARINE SCIENCES

Start Year

2023

Attendance

Full Time

Award

Degree of Master of Sciences

UCAS course code

F711

Entry Requirements

AAB (specific subject requirements apply)

Duration (years)

The ocean covers 70% of the Earth’s surface and contains a huge range of ecosystems, from deep sea hydrothermal vents through to shallow estuaries. It is also a critical component of the integrated Earth system, playing a key role in the moderation of our climate, both now and into the future. Far from being a static pool, the marine environment is a dynamic and inherently interdisciplinary system, with complex feedbacks between physical, chemical and biological processes.

If you’re fascinated by the marine environment, our Marine Sciences degree will take you on a journey through the global oceans, exploring the interconnected physical, biogeochemical and ecological systems. You’ll discover the vulnerability of marine ecosystems to human activity, consider how marine resources may be used sustainably, and investigate the critical role of the ocean in mitigating climate change.

You’ll be studying at the forefront of the innovative research being undertaken in this subject. In the 2021 Times Higher Education REF Analysis, the research quality of our School of Environmental Sciences was ranked 4th overall in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences.

Our BSc Marine Sciences is ranked in the top 20 for Earth and Marine Sciences by 'The Guardian University Guide 2023'.

About

What drives ocean currents? Why do phytoplankton bloom? How is ocean acidification linked to climate change? Where does all the plastic in the ocean go? How can marine energy be harnessed? If you’re fascinated by these sorts of questions, this is the degree for you.

During our Marine Sciences degree, you’ll explore the physical, biogeochemical and ecological systems that make the seas and oceans around the world such a rich and diverse environment. Throughout the course you’ll develop a wide range of professional and transferable skills, such as analytical problem solving, computing, scientific communication and collaborative research. These are highly sought-after skills for employers in marine industries and the blue economy, including offshore oil and gas, offshore wind, marine renewables, shipping, fisheries and aquaculture, but also for education, research, environmental consulting and other professional occupations.

UEA’s School of Environmental Sciences is at the cutting edge of interdisciplinary marine and environmental research, and you’ll be taught by world-leading scientists in these fields. Through the Collaborative Centre for Sustainable use of the Seas, UEA has strong links with the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), who advise industry and the UK government on marine science and policy. Cefas lecturers are embedded in many of our modules and provide further insight into real-world applications of marine science.

The seas and oceans around the world must be effectively managed to ensure sustainable use of marine resources into the future. This requires an overarching understanding of all the interconnected marine systems and UEA’s Marine Science degree will put you in the unique position to be part of the solution.

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We’re 4th for research quality!

UEA is ranked 4th overall in the Times Higher Education REF 2021 Analysis for research quality in Earth Systems and Environmental Sciences.

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What's included in your fees

Explore some of the benefits included as part of your UEA learning package.

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Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the courses listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the regular review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. Changes may for example consist of variations to the content and method of delivery of programmes, courses and other services, to discontinue programmes, courses and other services and to merge or combine programmes or courses. The University will endeavour to keep such changes to a minimum, and will inform students.

Assessment for Year 1

Assessment

We’ll use various assessment methods across the different modules, contributing in various proportions towards your overall module mark. Assessment methods include examinations, essays, projects, class tests, problem sheets, laboratory reports, field exercises, seminars, presentations and posters. We use formative assessment throughout each module so that you can gain feedback on your skills and understanding before completing summative work.

Feedback

You’ll receive constructive feedback on both your formative and summative assessments to help you develop your understanding and skills and improve your performance at assessment. In the School of Environmental Sciences, we aim to return feedback within 10 working days of the assessment deadline.

Structure

We will introduce you to the general scientific principles that govern the marine environment and the wider Earth system. You’ll develop your technical skills within the Research and Field Skills module and learn essential mathematical techniques in one of three mathematics/quantitative skills modules.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

You’ll typically spend 15-18 hours per week taking part in lectures, seminar discussions and practical work in the field or laboratory. In the lectures, you’ll learn essential analytical and critical skills, explore the processes that drive the marine system, and discover how they interact with the rest of the Earth system to shape our climate. The lectures will be supported by related practical classes or seminar sessions; these will allow you to scrutinise the lecture material and deepen your understanding. Field courses will be integral to your training, and you’ll learn a variety of practical techniques using specialist equipment in the field.

Independent study

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Assessment for Year 2

Assessment

Feedback

You’ll receive constructive feedback on both your formative summative assessments to help you develop your understanding and skills and improve your performance at assessment. In the School of Environmental Sciences, we aim to return feedback within 10 working days of the assessment deadline.

Structure

With a solid foundation built, you now have a choice of which direction to take your studies. You can choose to follow one of the suggested pathways or enjoy the freedom to tailor your course around your own interests. Either way, you’ll take at least three key marine science modules. These are complemented by a choice of modules from across the breadth of Environmental Science and the Schools of Mathematics, Engineering and Biology.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

Independent study

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Assessment for Year 3

Assessment

Feedback

Structure

During your third-year Independent Project, you’ll develop your independent research skills by investigating a specialist topic in marine sciences, with one-to-one support from an academic supervisor. Alongside this, you’ll take at least one key marine science module as well as a choice of complementary modules from across the breadth of Environmental Science and the Schools of Mathematics and Biology.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

You’ll typically spend 10-12 hours per week taking part in lectures, seminar discussions and practical work in the field or laboratory. In the lectures, you’ll learn essential analytical and critical skills, explore the processes that drive the marine system, and discover how they interact with the rest of the Earth system to shape our climate. The lectures will be supported by related practical classes or seminar sessions; these will allow you to scrutinise the lecture material and deepen your understanding.

Independent study

You’ll research around the core content of your chosen modules to broaden your understanding and find contexts that most spark your interest. This independent study will be facilitated by UEA’s state-of-the-art library, which has extensive physical and online resources. During your third year, you’ll spend one third of your time undertaking an independent research project. You’ll receive one-to-one support from an academic supervisor during this period of self-directed study.

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Assessment for Year 4

Assessment

Feedback

Structure

During your fourth year, you’ll undertake a substantial piece of independent research in a specialist topic that matches your interests. During this larger Research Training Project, you’ll build upon the research skills that you developed during your third year and investigate a new topic in even greater depth. Alongside this, you’ll take three complementary Master’s level modules from across the breadth of Environmental Science and the Schools of Mathematics, Engineering and Biology.

Teaching and Learning

Teaching

You’ll typically spend 8-9 hours per week taking part in lectures, seminar discussions and practical work in the field or laboratory. In the lectures, you’ll learn essential analytical and critical skills, explore the processes that drive the marine system, and discover how they interact with the rest of the Earth system to shape our climate. The lectures will be supported by related practical classes or seminar sessions; these will allow you to scrutinise the lecture material and deepen your understanding.

Independent study

You’ll research around the core content of your chosen modules to broaden your understanding and find contexts that most spark your interest. This independent study will be facilitated by UEA’s state-of-the-art library, which has extensive physical and online resources. During your fourth year, you’ll spend half of your time undertaking an independent research project. You’ll receive one-to-one support from an academic supervisor during this period of self-directed study.

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Assessment for Year 1

Assessment

Feedback

Compulsory Modules

RESEARCH AND FIELD SKILLS

Code ENV-4004Y

Credits 20

You will gain a range of transferable skills, tools and resources that are widely used in research across the Environmental Sciences and Geography. It aims to provide a broad understanding of the research process through activities that involve formulating research questions, collecting data using appropriate sources and techniques, collating and evaluating information and presenting results. A week-long residential field course, held at Easter and based at Slapton Ley, Devon, applies field, lab and other skills to a variety of environmental science and geography topics. Depending on the size of the cohort, students on selected degree programmes may be offered the option of an alternative field course arrangement.

GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL CHALLENGES

Code ENV-4001A

Credits 20

What are the most pressing environmental challenges facing the world today? How do we understand these problems through cutting-edge environmental science research? What are the possibilities for building sustainable solutions to address them in policy and society? In this module, you will tackle these questions by taking an interdisciplinary approach to consider challenges relating to climate change, biodiversity, water resources, natural hazards, and technological risks. In doing so you will gain an insight into environmental science research ‘in action’ and develop essential academic study skills needed to explore these issues.

UNDERSTANDING THE DYNAMIC PLANET

Code ENV-4005A

Credits 20

Understanding of natural systems is underpinned by physical laws and processes. You will explore the energy, mechanics, and physical properties of Earth materials and their relevance to environmental science using examples from across the Earth's differing systems. The formation, subsequent evolution and current state of our planet are considered through its structure and behaviour - from the planetary interior to the dynamic surface and into the atmosphere. You will study Plate Tectonics to explain Earth's physiographic features - such as mountain belts and volcanoes - and how the processes of erosion and deposition modify them. The distribution of land masses is tied to global patterns of rock, ice and soil distribution and to atmospheric and ocean circulation. You will also explore geological time - the 4.6 billion year record of changing conditions on the planet - and how geological maps can be used to understand Earth history. This course provides you with an introduction to geological materials - rocks, minerals and sediments - and to geological resources and natural hazards.

SUSTAINABILITY, SOCIETY AND BIODIVERSITY

Code ENV-4006B

Credits 20

Striking a balance between societal development, economic growth and environmental conservation has proven challenging and contentious at many scales and over time. The concept of `sustainable development’ was coined to denote processes aiming to achieve this balance. This module introduces sustainable development, and examines the challenges and opportunities to achieving this, drawing together social and ecological dimensions. Drawing upon the social sciences, this module examines the theory and practice of sustainable development. From an ecological perspective, the module covers a range of concepts relevant to the structure and functioning of the biosphere, and topics ranging from landscape and population ecology to biodiversity conservation. This module is assessed by coursework and an examination.

ATMOSPHERE & OCEANS

Code ENV-4007B

Credits 20

The habitability of planet Earth depends on physical and chemical systems that control everything from the weather and climate to the growth of all living organisms. This module introduces you to some of these key cycles and the ways in which physical and chemical scientists investigate and interpret them. It leads naturally to second and third year study of these systems in more detail, but even if you choose to study other aspects of environmental sciences, a basic knowledge of these systems is central to understanding our planet and how it responds to human pressures. The module is made up of two distinct components. One focuses on the physical study of the environment (Physical Processes: e.g. weather, climate, ocean circulation, etc.) The other focuses on the chemical study (Chemical Processes: weathering, atmospheric pollution, ocean productivity, etc.). Interrelationships between these components are explored throughout. Teaching of this module is through a mix of lectures, laboratory practical classes, workshops and a half-day field trip. This module provides a Basic Chemistry introduction for those students who have little or no background in chemistry prior to joining UEA.

Optional A Modules

(20 credits)

QUANTITATIVE SKILLS I

Code ENV-4013Y

Credits 20

We will explore how quantitative skills can solve a range of environmental and geographical problems. We will think critically about numbers in the media and learn how scientists use numbers. Our workshops will focus on the practical use of maths through physical equations and mathematical models. Designed primarily for students who have no AS/ A2 qualification (or equivalent), most of the maths content will be a revision of topics you already know, but may have forgotten. You will also receive statistical training, learning about summarising data using both numerical summaries and graphs, testing hypotheses and carrying out these analyses on computers.

QUANTITATIVE SKILLS II

Code ENV-4014Y

Credits 20

Mathematical and statistical skills are key to all brands of environmental sciences and geography. This module will strengthen your mathematical and statistical skills. It will consolidate your mathematics knowledge from GCSE level and will introduce you to differentiation and integration. You’ll learn to recognise the purpose of simple statistical methods, to choose the appropriate methods to test hypotheses and to summarise data using tables and graphs. You’ll use a computer package for statistical operations. You’ll apply these quantitative skills to contemporary environmental and geographical problems, inspired by research in the School of Environmental Sciences. You’ll be assessed through an online course test and an exam. This module will widen the range of science modules that you can take during your studies in geography and environmental sciences. Upon successful completion of the module, you’ll have acquired skill in applying a range of mathematical and statistical methods to problems in environmental sciences and geography. Recommended if you have: A-level Maths (D or E), AS Maths, A2 Physics (C or better), IB SL Maths (2, 3), IB SL Maths Studies, GCSE Maths (A, A*,7), CHE-0006

MATHEMATICS FOR SCIENTISTS A

Code ENV-4015Y

Credits 20

You will cover differentiation, integration, vectors, partial differentiation, ordinary differential equations, further integrals, power series expansions, complex numbers and statistical methods as part of this module. In addition to the theoretical background there is an emphasis on applied examples. Previous knowledge of calculus is assumed. This module is the first in a series of three maths modules for those across the Faculty of Science that provide a solid undergraduate mathematical training. The follow-on modules are Mathematics for Scientists B and C. Recommended if you have grade A*-C at A-level Mathematics, or equivalent.

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Open Days

Important Information

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring and review of modules. Where this activity leads to significant change to a programme and modules, the University will endeavour to consult with affected students. The University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. Availability of optional modules may be restricted owing to timetabling, lack of demand, or limited places. Where this is the case, you will be asked to make alternative module choices and you will be supported during this process.

Assessment for Year 2

Assessment

Feedback

Compulsory Modules

INDEPENDENT PROJECT - PROPOSAL

Code ENV-6021B

Credits 0

This module contains the Project Proposal for ENV-6021Y (the Independent Project) and is a separate module because the proposal is submitted in the second half of your 2nd year. The proposal is a 1400-word summative document that sets out in closely defined sections the academic context, aims, methods and means of analysing the primary or secondary data/information that you plan to use for your project plus a timeline that you design to help you manage your time effectively and towards deadlines. The proposal will be evolved with your Supervisor and the mark will contribute 12% to the 40-credit Independent Project module. The Project Report (of no more than 10,000 words) will be submitted in the Spring Semester next year followed by an assignment that tests how well you are able to communicate the skills developed during your degree and used over the course of your Independent Project.

Optional A Modules

(60-80 credits)

OCEAN CIRCULATION

Code ENV-5016A

Credits 20

This module gives you an understanding of the physical processes occurring in the basin-scale ocean environment. We will introduce and discuss large scale global ocean circulation, including gyres, boundary currents and the overturning circulation. Major themes include the interaction between ocean and atmosphere, and the forces which drive ocean circulation. You should be familiar with partial differentiation, integration, handling equations and using calculators. Shelf Sea Dynamics is a natural follow-on module and builds on some of the concepts introduced here. We strongly recommend that you also gain oceanographic fieldwork experience by taking the 20-credit biennial Marine Sciences field course.

SHELF SEA DYNAMICS AND COASTAL PROCESSES

Code ENV-5017B

Credits 20

The shallow shelf seas that surround the continents are the oceans that we most interact with. They contribute a disproportionate amount to global marine primary production and CO2 drawdown into the ocean, and are important economically through commercial fisheries, offshore oil and gas exploration, and renewable energy developments (e.g. offshore wind farms). You will explore the physical processes that occur in shelf seas and coastal waters, their effect on biological, chemical and sedimentary processes, and how they can be harnessed to generate renewable energy. You will develop new skills during this module that will support careers in the offshore oil and gas industry, renewable energy industry, environmental consultancy, government laboratories (e.g. Cefas) and academia. The level of mathematical ability required to take this module is similar to Ocean Circulation and Meteorology I. You should be familiar with radians, rearranging equations and plotting functions.

AQUATIC BIOGEOCHEMISTRY

Code ENV-5039B

Credits 20

The Earth’s terrestrial and marine water bodies support life and play a major role in regulating the planet’s climate. This module will train you to make accurate measurements of the chemical composition of the aquatic environment. In lectures and in the lab you will explore important chemical interactions between life, fresh and marine waters and climate, looking at nutrient cycles, dissolved oxygen, trace metals, carbonate chemistry and chemical exchange with the atmosphere. Students taking this module are expected to be familiar with basic chemical concepts and molar concentration units. This module makes a good combination with Aquatic Ecology.

Optional B Modules

(0-60 credits)

ENVIRONMENTAL POLITICS AND POLICY MAKING

Code ENV-5002B

Credits 20

The most significant obstacles to problem solving are often political, not scientific or technological. This module examines the emergence and processes of environmental politics. It analyses these from different theoretical perspectives, particularly theories of power and public policy making. The module is focused on contemporary examples of politics and policy making at UK, EU and international levels. The module supports student-led learning by enabling students to select (and develop their own theoretical interpretations of) ‘real world’ examples of politics. Assessment is via seminar slides and a case study essay. The module assumes no prior knowledge of politics.

CLIMATE CHANGE: SCIENCE AND POLICY

Code ENV-5003A

Credits 20

You will develop your skills and understanding in the integrated analysis of global climate change, using perspectives from both the natural sciences and the social sciences. You will gain a grounding in the basics of climate change science, impacts, adaptation, mitigation and their influence on and by policy decisions. This module also offers you a historical perspective on how climate policy has developed, culminating in the December 2015 Paris Agreement. Finally, it considers what will be required to meet the goal of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming to well below 2 °C above pre-industrial levels.

WEATHER APPLICATIONS

Code ENV-5009B

Credits 20

This module will build upon material covered in Meteorology I, by covering topics such as synoptic meteorology, weather hazards, micro-meteorology, further thermodynamics and weather forecasting. The module includes a major summative coursework assignment based on data collected on a UEA meteorology fieldcourse in a previous year.

WEATHER APPLICATIONS WITH FIELDCOURSE

Code ENV-5010K

Credits 20

Weather is one of the most popular topics of conversation. But how, specifically, does it present risks and opportunities, to people, organisations and to the wider environment? In this module you will develop a clear understanding of these linkages and an evidence base to draw on in future roles in which weather is a factor. You’ll learn how to confidently source a diverse range of real-time weather information and you’ll practice analysing such data, leading subsequently to successful interpretation and effective communication, both written and in front of the camera. You’ll see, first hand, how meteorology depends upon computer systems for the efficient sharing, processing and visualisation of weather information. Being taught by weather practitioners with long experience of providing weather services to users, you will get the inside track on what it’s like to work in weather. Weather Forecasting is one central theme and application which will provide a focus for learning. How are forecasts made and delivered, who uses forecasts and what are their distinctive needs? Success in forecasting depends in part on a good physical understanding of atmospheric processes - through practical work, we’ll study those processes and use real examples of weather systems and events to reinforce the learning. At the end of the module, through an embedded week-long Easter residential fieldcourse, you’ll apply your enhanced process understanding and forecasting knowledge in a hands-on way to design and implement meteorological field experiments, testing hypotheses through the collection and interpretation of field data collected using weather sensors. You’ll write up your choice of fieldcourse experiment for assessment, after first receiving informal feedback on a related poster presentation.

POPULATION ECOLOGY AND MANAGEMENT

Code ENV-5014A

Credits 20

We live in a human dominated era recently designated “the Anthropocene”. Humans harvest more than half of the primary productivity of the planet, many resources are over-exploited or depleted (e.g. fisheries) never before has it been so important to correctly manage natural resources for an exponentially growing human population. It is, thus, fundamental to predict where other species occur and the sizes of their populations (abundance). Population Ecology is an area dedicated to the dynamics of population development. In this module we will look closely at how populations are regulated, from within through density dependent factors and from external density independent factors. We start the module with a global environmental change perspective to the management of populations and the factors that affect the population size. We then extend these ideas to help us understand population properties and processes both intra-specifically and inter-specifically. Finally we examine several management applications where we show that a good understanding of the population modelling is essential to correctly manage natural resources on the planet. Practicals include learning to survey butterflies and birds using citizen science monitoring projects and will be focused on delivering statistical analyses of “Big data” using the open access programme R-studio. The projects will provide a strong training in both subject specific and transferable skills.

HYDROLOGY AND HYDROGEOLOGY

Code ENV-5021A

Credits 20

Hydrology and hydrogeology are Earth Science subjects concerned with the assessment of the natural distribution of water in time and space and the evaluation of human impacts on the water. This module provides an introduction to geological controls on groundwater occurrence, aquifer characteristics, basic principles of groundwater flow, basic hydrochemistry, an introduction to catchment hydrology, hydrological data collection and analysis, runoff generation processes and the principles of rainfall-runoff modelling. Practical classes develop analytical skills in solving problems as well as field skills in pumping test analysis and stream gauging. A field excursion in Norfolk is also offered in this module.

GIS SKILLS FOR PROJECT WORK

Code ENV-5028B

Credits 20

This module builds upon the introduction to GIS provided in the first year Research and Field Skills module, focusing on how you obtain your data, integrate it and then undertake analysis and presentation tasks. ESRI ArcGIS will be the main software used, but the module also offers information on online GIS (ArcGIS Online) as well as scripting tools (Python) and open source software (QGIS) that you may wish to progress in your own time. Teaching will consist of a one-hour lecture and a three-hour practical class each week.

SEDIMENTOLOGY

Code ENV-5035B

Credits 20

Sediments and sedimentary rocks cover much of the Earth's surface, but how do they get there and what can they tell us? If you are a geologist, geophysicist or environmental scientist with particular interest in physical geography, then this is a key issue that you need to think about. Sediments record the Earth's history of environmental change, a record that started 3.8 billion years ago. Sediments contain the fossil record and host many of the world’s natural resources including water, hydrocarbons, and minerals. In this module, you will discover how sedimentologists decode the wealth of information sediments contain, taught by two practicing sedimentologists who have international research reputations in their respective fields. This module includes the study of modern sediments in a range of environments including rivers, the continental shelf and deep ocean basins. We put particular emphasis on the physical and chemical processes that result in the deposition of different sediment types. We then use this basis to interpret the origin and processes that formed ancient sedimentary rocks. The module emphasises development of practical skills in the laboratory.

EARTH SURFACE PROCESSES

Code ENV-5042A

Credits 20

This module draws upon on a range of scientific disciplines including geomorphology, sedimentology, soil science and eco-geomorphology. The module overviews a variety of Earth’s surface environments and the processes that lead to expression in landforms, soil evolution, sediment accumulation and ultimately, the formation of sedimentary rocks. The environments covered include deep and marginal marine, intertidal, aeolian, glacial and fluvial. The approach will be both descriptive and quantitative, based on understanding of erosion, transport, deposition, accumulation and burial and the evolution of soils. East Anglian case studies will be used to illustrate and explain eco-geomorphology and coastal processes, dovetailed with soil evolution. Geomorphological expression will be linked to sedimentary processes and sedimentary rock. There will be an introduction to the methods and different types of evidence used by geologists, physical geographers and other earth scientists.

WEATHER

Code ENV-5043A

Credits 20

The weather affects everyone and influences decisions that are made continuously around the world. From designing and siting a wind farm to assessing flood risk and public safety, weather plays a vital role. Have you ever wondered what actually causes the weather we experience, for example why large storms are so frequent across north western Europe, especially in Winter? In this module you will learn the fundamentals of the science of meteorology. We will concentrate on the physical processes that underpin the radiation balance, thermodynamics, wind-flow, atmospheric stability, weather systems and the water cycle. We will link these to renewable energy and the weather we experience throughout the Semester. Assessment will be based entirely on a set of practical reports that you will submit, helping you to spread your work evenly through the semester. You will learn how Weather is a rich fusion of descriptive and numerical elements and you will be able to draw effectively on your own skill strengths while practising and developing others, guided by Weatherquest’s Meteorologists.

Optional C Modules

(0-40 credits)

FIELD ECOLOGY

Code BIO-5013A

Credits 20

This module aims to introduce you to a wide range of habitats and methods for studying the organisms and natural processes occurring in these habitats. The focus is on identification of species and on formulating and testing hypotheses to investigate interactions between species and their habitats or on examining environmental gradients. The module includes a two week residential field trip to Ireland before the start of the first semester in the autumn term. This module would suit you if you are interested in natural history, geography, ecology and designing and testing scientific hypotheses.

RENEWABLE ENERGY

Code ENG-5002B

Credits 20

This module builds on understanding in wind, tidal and hydroelectric power and introduces theories and principles relating to a variety of renewable energy technologies including solar energy, heat pumps and geothermal sources, fuel cells and the hydrogen economy, biomass energy and anaerobic digestion. You will consider how these various technologies can realistically contribute to the energy mix. You will study the various targets and legislative instruments that are used to control and encourage developments. Students will also apply their knowledge to propose, design and evaluate renewable technology solutions in order to meet performance, cost and emissions reduction targets within the coursework exercise, also involving application of project management and financial project appraisal techniques in a renewable energy context

MATHEMATICS FOR SCIENTISTS B

Code MTHB5010A

Credits 20

This module develops mathematical techniques required for a range of modules that form part of our science degree programmes. You will cover topics such as matrix algebra and its use in solving systems of differential equations, together with Fourier series and Fourier transforms as a method for solving differential equations. You will see a range of partial differential equations relevant to physical sciences such as the wave equation, together with methods for solving these equations, such as the method of separable variables. Numerical methods for solving algebraic and differential equations are important when analytic methods do not provide an exact solution. You will be introduced to the Python programming language to find numerical solutions of differential equations and systems of linear equations.

MATHEMATICS FOR SCIENTISTS C

Code MTHB5011B

Credits 20

This module provides more mathematical techniques to complement study of other science programmes, in particular Engineering, Environmental Science and Physics programmes. The main focus of the module is the study of the motion of fluids and solids in different physical situations. You will first study vector calculus. This combines vectors with ideas from multivariable calculus. An understanding of vector calculus is needed to be able to model the motion of fluids and solids. You will then learn about the equations governing fluid and how to solve them in relatively simple geometries; for example, the flow of water over an obstacle and the appearance of hydraulic jumps. A key result is Bernoulli’s equation which relates fluid flow to pressure and hence the force on bodies placed in a flow. This has important applications in understanding why flows lead to lift forces on a wing. You will also be introduced to wave theory and understand how waves on the surface of a fluid can develop. Finally, you will study how mathematics can be used to model deformation and vibration of elastic solids. You will learn how this theory can be applied to seismology (the study of earthquakes).

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Open Days

Important Information

Assessment for Year 3

Assessment

Feedback

Compulsory Modules

INDEPENDENT PROJECT

Code ENV-6021Y

Credits 40

You will be asked in the Spring Semester of your Level-5 year to complete and submit a supervisor request form via the ENV-6021B Blackboard on which you will be enrolled. Students on Placement programmes over the following year must make their request and submit a Project Proposal at the same time as other students. A supervisor will then be allocated to every student. In collaboration with your supervisor, you will then choose a topic and submit an assessed Project Proposal that sets out the design for your research. You will then collect data from primary or secondary sources that are then analysed, interpreted and discussed in the context of relevant literature and submitted as an assessed Project Report (9,900 words) in Spring the following year or the year after that for Placement students. Progress with project work must be reported at various stages including formative assessment of a written interim report and a spoken preliminary results presentation. Because this is an independent project, the onus throughout is on students to contact their supervisor when guidance or academic support is needed. Throughout the progress of your project, you will reflect on the range of subject-specific and generic skills acquired through your degree and how these have been reinforced and complemented by skills used during your project. A third and final item of summative work assesses the clarity with which you communicate and show evidence of your skills within a C.V. and a job application.

Optional A Modules

(20-40 credits)

MODELLING ENVIRONMENTAL PROCESSES

Code ENV-6004A

Credits 20

Our aim is to show how environmental problems may be solved from the initial problem, to mathematical formulation and numerical solution. Problems will be described conceptually, then defined mathematically, then solved numerically via computer programming. The module consists of lectures on numerical methods and computing practicals; the practicals being designed to illustrate the solution of problems using the methods covered in lectures. We will guide you through the solution of a model of an environmental process of your own choosing. The skills developed in this module are highly valued by prospective employers.

BIOLOGICAL OCEANOGRAPHY AND MARINE ECOLOGY

Code ENV-6005A

Credits 20

Explore the evolution, biodiversity and ecology of bacteria, diatoms, coccolithophores and nitrogen fixers, and the physiology and distribution of zooplankton. You will study ecosystems such as the Antarctic, mid ocean gyres and Eastern Boundary Upwelling Systems in detail, and predict the impact of environmental change (increasing temperature, decreasing pH, decreasing oxygen, and changes in nutrient supply) on marine ecosystem dynamics. Biological oceanographic methods will be critically evaluated. The module will include a reading week in week 7 and a voluntary employability visit to the Centre for the Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas) in Lowestoft. You will be expected to have some background in biology, e.g. have taken a biology, ecology or biogeochemistry based second year module in order to study this module.

THE CARBON CYCLE AND CLIMATE CHANGE

Code ENV-6008A

Credits 20

What do you know about the drivers of climate change? Carbon dioxide (CO2) is the greenhouse gas that has, by far, the greatest impact on climate change, but how carbon cycles through the Earth is complex and not fully understood. Predicting future climate or defining ‘dangerous’ climate change is therefore challenging. In this module you will learn about the atmosphere, ocean and land components of the carbon cycle. We cover urgent global issues such as ocean acidification and how to get off our fossil fuel ‘addiction’, as well as how to deal with climate change denialists.

Optional B Modules

(0-60 credits)

BIODIVERSITY CONSERVATION AND HUMAN SOCIETY

Code ENV-6006A

Credits 20

The global biodiversity crisis threatens mass species loss. What are the implications for society? How can communities solve this problem in a world that is facing other challenges of climate change, food security, environmental and social justice? In this inter-disciplinary module, (designed for students of Geography, Environmental Science, Ecology and International Development who have an interest in biodiversity and its conservation), you will focus on the interactions between biodiversity and human societies. The module adopts a rigorous evidence-based approach. You will first critically examine the human drivers of biodiversity loss and the importance of biodiversity to human society, to understand how underlying perspectives and motivations influence approaches to conservation. You will then examine conflicts between human society and conservation and how these potentially can be resolved, reviewing institutions and potential instruments for biodiversity conservation in both Europe and developing countries. Coursework is inter-disciplinary and will require you to evaluate and communicate the quality of evidence showing effectiveness of conservation interventions and approaches.

NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS

Code ENV-6012B

Credits 20

Environmental economics provides a set of tools and principles which can be useful in understanding natural resource management issues. This module introduces you to key principles and tools of environmental economics for students who have not studied the subject previously. It then explores how these principles can be applied to address a number of complex economy-environment problems including climate change, over-fishing and water resources management. In this module you will have the opportunity to practically apply cost-benefit analysis as a framework for decision-making and will gain knowledge on the key non-market valuation techniques that are used to monetarily value environmental goods and services. At the end of the module you will have gained insights into how environmental economics is used in developing natural resource management policy as well as some of the challenges in using environmental economics in policy-making.

PALAEOCLIMATOLOGY

Code ENV-6017B

Credits 20

This module examines the geological evidence for climatic change through the Quaternary Period (the last 2.6 million years) and the longer-term evolution of climate through the Cenozoic Era (the last 65 million years). You will explore the interpretation and causal mechanisms behind these major global environmental changes using a diverse range of approaches – isotope geochemistry, sedimentology, palaeoecology and organic geochemistry. We will focus on the geochemical, biological and sedimentological information that can be obtained from marine sediments, ice cores, and terrestrial environments and use these records to reconstruct the timing extent and magnitude of selected climatic events in the geological record.

CATCHMENT MANAGEMENT

Code ENV-6018B

Credits 20

Based around the theme of Integrated Catchment Management (ICM), in this module you will address the fundamental requirement for an interdisciplinary catchment-based approach to protecting water and soil resources that includes an understanding of land use policy and management. Exploring land and water processes, you will cover aspects of hydrology, water pollution, aquatic ecology, soil science, flood modelling, agronomy and agri-environmental policy. This module is ideally suited for those seeking a career in catchment management working for organisations including water companies, Rivers Trusts, Natural England and the Environment Agency. Competence in numerical problem solving and data analysis would be advantageous for the coursework and practical classes.

Optional C Modules

(0-40 credits)

EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY AND CONSERVATION GENETICS

Code BIO-6008B

Credits 20

You will gain a deep understanding about conservation genetics / genomics based on an evolutionary / population-genetic framework, thereby covering contemporary issues in conservation biology, evolution, population biology, genetics, organismal phylogeny, Next Generation Sequencing, and molecular ecology. This is an advanced course in evolutionary biology / conservation genetics that will benefit you if you plan to continue with a postgraduate degree in ecology, genetics, conservation, or evolution. It is also ideal if you are wishing to deepen your knowledge in 1st and 2nd year conservation / evolution / genetics modules. A background in evolution, genetics, and/or molecular biology is highly recommended.

DYNAMICAL METEOROLOGY

Code MTHD6018B

Credits 20

Dynamical meteorology is a core subject on which weather forecasting and the study of climate and climate change are based. This module applies fluid dynamics to the study of the circulation of the Earth's atmosphere. You will be introduced to the fluid dynamical equations and some basic thermodynamics for the atmosphere. You will then learn how these can be applied to topics such as geostrophic flow, thermal wind and the jet streams, boundary layers, gravity waves, the Hadley circulation, vorticity and potential vorticity, Rossby waves, and equatorial waves. Emphasis will be placed on fluid dynamical concepts as well as on finding analytical solutions to the equations of motion.

FLUID DYNAMICS

Code MTHD6020B

Credits 20

Fluid dynamics concerns the mathematical modelling of the flow of liquids and gases. It has wide ranging applications across nature, engineering, and biology. Applications include understanding the behaviour of ocean waves and weather, designing efficient aircraft and ships, and describing the flow of blood around the body. In this module, you will consider mathematical models of fluids, particularly including viscosity (or stickiness) of a fluid. Illustrated by practical examples throughout, you will develop the governing differential Navier-Stokes equations, and then consider their solution either finding exact solutions, or using analytical techniques to obtain solutions in certain limits (for example low viscosity or high viscosity).

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Important Information

Assessment for Year 4

Assessment

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Compulsory Modules

RESEARCH TRAINING PROJECT

Code ENV-7026Y

Credits 60

This year long module involves you carrying out individual research in the environmental sciences, with the topic suggested by and closely directed by a supervisor. The work will develop your research skills through learning by doing. You will presented your results as a seminar and in the form of a research paper. The project differs from Year 3 project in requiring greater time and higher expected standards of research design and application of data. This module is restricted to UG students on the MSci programme only.

Optional A Modules

(20-60 credits)

MODELLING ENVIRONMENTAL PROCESSES

Code ENV-7003A

Credits 20

Our aim is to show how environmental problems may be solved from the initial problem, to mathematical formulation and numerical solution. Problems will be described conceptually, then defined mathematically, then solved numerically via computer programming. The module consists of lectures on numerical methods and computing practical's; the practical's being designed to illustrate the solution of problems using the methods covered in lectures. We will guide students through the solution of a model of an environmental process of their own choosing. The skills developed in this module are highly valued by prospective employers.

CLIMATE CHANGE: PHYSICAL SCIENCE BASIS

Code ENV-7014A

Credits 20

Climate change and variability have played major roles in shaping human history, and the prospect of human-caused global warming is a pressing challenge for society. But how and why has climate changed, how do we predict future climate and how do our choices affect future climate? Throughout this module, you will learn how climate science can answer these questions. Discover the approaches, methods and techniques for understanding the history of climate change and for developing climate projections for the next 100 years. You'll also explore the scientific evidence about climate change and where the uncertainties lie. Starting with an introduction to the changing climate and the main themes in current climate research, your study will be structured around three topics. (1) Fundamentals of the changing climate including the Earth’s energy balance, causes of climate change and the greenhouse effect. (2) Research methods, consisting of empirical approaches to climate reconstruction (such as tree-ring research), analysis of observational data (focusing on the global temperature record and causes of recent climate change), and an introduction to energy balance models and general circulation models. (3) Climate change and causal mechanisms, concentrating on the period from 1000 CE to the present and climate projections out to 2100 CE. Studying the physical science basis of climate change will enable you to understand what controls our climate, to explain the causes of the changes we have observed, and to interpret projections of future climate change.

THEORY OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT

Code ENV-7020A

Credits 20

Environmental assessment is a term used to describe procedures for evaluating the potential environmental consequences of policies, programmes, plans and projects. It is a well established tool for environmental policy integration, being routinely employed in more than 100 nations and by many international aid and funding agencies. This multidisciplinary module focuses on the theory and methods of environmental assessment and the decision-making contexts in which they are employed. It explains the procedural stages of, and selected methodologies for, environmental assessment and provides practical experience in applying them.

GEOENGINEERING THE CLIMATE: SCIENCE AND POLICY

Code ENV-7031A

Credits 20

This module studies a set of different proposed techniques, called geoengineering, that seek to modify the Earth’s climate by reducing the degree of anthropogenic radiative forcing, either by reflecting more sunlight back to space or by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. This is a complex, controversial and highly uncertain area of science that requires a strongly interdisciplinary approach. The potential role of geoengineering techniques as a complement to mitigation and adaptation in tackling future climate change raises a number of important questions, not least for international policy making.

STATISTICS AND MODELLING FOR SCIENTISTS USING R

Code ENV-7033B

Credits 20

How do you test a hypothesis? How do you compare biological traits between wild populations? And how do you best test and visualise differences between samples? Scientists use a wide array of methods for statistical analysis and plotting data, and increasingly, these tasks are carried out using R. R is a free programming language for statistical computing and graphics, including general and generalised linear models, time-series analysis, and community analysis, and also specialised analyses in many scientific subfields. Learning R will equip you with a flexible statistical, modelling, and graphics tool. Learning the basics of running R in the RStudio programming environment, you’ll spend most of your time on general and generalised linear models, which unify the range of statistical tests that are classically taught separately: t-test, ANOVA, regression, logistic regression, and chi-square, plus residuals analysis. Additionally, you’ll learn how to use R to write simple programs and carry out community analyses such as principal components analysis. Finally, throughout the class, you’ll learn R methods for data formatting, graphics, and documentation. On successful completion of this module you’ll be able to use R to carry out and present results from the most widely used statistical tests in current scientific practice, giving you sufficient knowledge to continue learning statistical analysis on your own. A pre-requisite of first and/or second year statistical modules is required.

GIS AND ITS APPLICATIONS FOR MODELLING ECOLOGICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL CHANGE

Code ENV-7034A

Credits 20

This module will provide essential GIS tools and principles that will be applied to modelling ecological and environmental change. This module includes two parts, the first part delivers core GIS skills. The second part examines recent ecological and environmental changes with particular emphasis to climate change. Students will learn to identify, extract and analyse data from national and global databases. GIS analyses will include the manipulation of such files. Particular attention will be paid to using the data to understand and model the consequences of environmental change. These skills are important in many areas of ecological and environmental research. This module is suitable for students with no or little previous knowledge of GIS and will be relevant to students from across the sciences.

PALAEOCLIMATOLOGY

Code ENV-7045B

Credits 20

This module examines the geological evidence for climatic change through the Quaternary Period (the last 2.6 million years) and the longer-term evolution of climate through the Cenozoic Era (the last 65 million years). You will explore the interpretation of the geological evidence and consider the causal mechanisms behind the major regional and global environmental events. This will require the use and understanding of a diverse range of indicators of past climate, e.g. isotope geochemistry, sedimentology, palaeoecology and organic geochemistry. We will largely focus on the various types of geochemical, biological and sedimentological information that can be obtained from marine sediments, ice cores, and terrestrial environments. Our primary objective is to use these palaeo-records to reconstruct the timing, the extent and the magnitude of selected climatic events in the geological record.

NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL ECONOMICS

Code ENV-7116B

Credits 20

Optional B Modules

(0-40 credits)

EVOLUTIONARY BIOLOGY AND CONSERVATION GENETICS

Code BIO-7027B

Credits 10

The aim of this module is to give you a deep understanding about conservation genetics, genomics based on an evolutionary and population-genetic framework. We will cover contemporary issues in conservation biology, evolution, population biology, genetics, organismal phylogeny, Next Generation Sequencing, and molecular ecology. A background in evolution, genetics, and molecular biology is recommended. This is an advanced course in evolutionary biology and conservation genetics that will benefit you if you plan to continue with a PhD in ecology, genetics, conservation, or evolution. If you wish to deepen your knowledge in conservation, evolution or genetics then you will also benefit from this module.

FLUIDS ENGINEERING FOR RENEWABLE ENERGY

Code ENG-7007B

Credits 20

This module covers the extraction of renewable energy from wind and water currents and wave motions. This includes the mechanisms by which solar and tidal energy are converted into these resources, the fluid mechanics relevant to energy transfer by machines, examples of working devices and the principles by which they are designed. The variability of these resources and the effect on the design and operation of fluidic devices is also addressed, as are the infrastructure, environmental, policy and financial issues influencing planning, development and operation of renewable energy installations.

DYNAMICAL METEOROLOGY WITH ADVANCED TOPICS

Code MTHD7018B

Credits 20

FLUID DYNAMICS WITH ADVANCED TOPICS

Code MTHD7020B

Credits 20

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Important Information

Entry Requirements

A Levels

AAB Including Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer, if you achieve an A in the EPQ.

T Levels

Obtain an overall Pass including an A in the core of the T Level and a Distinction in the Occupational Specialism. Accepted subjects: Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, or Science.

BTEC

DDD - Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science), Environmental Sustainability or Countryside Management

Scottish highers

AAAAA including Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Scottish highers advanced

BBC including Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Irish leaving certificate

4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Access course

Pass Access to HE Diploma with Distinction in 36 credits at Level 3 and Merit in 9 credits at Level 3, including 12 credits in either Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics

European Baccalaureate

80% including grade 7 in Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

International Baccalaureate

33 points including HL5 in Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

GCSE offer

You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.

Additional entry requirements

UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.

We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.

A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.   Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.

If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BSc Environmental Sciences with a Foundation Year.

Important note

Once enrolled onto your course at UEA, your progression and continuation (which may include your eligibility for study abroad, overseas experience, placement or year in industry opportunities) is contingent on meeting the assessment requirements which are relevant to the course on which you are enrolled.

International Requirements

We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.

INTO University of East Anglia

If you do not meet the academic and/or English requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO University of East Anglia offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:

International Foundation in Pharmacy Health and Life Science (for Year 1 entry to UEA)

International Foundation in Mathematics and Actuarial Sciences (for Year 1 entry to UEA)

International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering (for Year 1 entry to UEA)

Students for whom english is a foreign language

Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading): 

IELTS: 6.0  overall (minimum 5.5  in all components) for year 1 entry
IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 6.0  in all components) for year 2 entry

We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.

If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study: 

Interviews

Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Track. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time. 

Gap year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year.  We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application. 

Intakes

This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year. 

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Course Reference Number: 6774565

MSci MARINE SCIENCES