MSci Marine Sciences with a Year Abroad
Course options
Key Details
- Attendance
- Full Time
- Award
- Degree of Master of Sciences
- UCAS Course Code
- F71A
- Entry Requirements
- AAB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2023
Course Overview
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 MSci Marine Sciences with a Year Abroad is ranked in the top 20 for Earth and Marine Sciences by 'The Guardian University Guide 2023'.
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 are 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.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
If you chosoe the MSci Marine Sciences with a Year Abroad, you’ll spend your third year studying overseas. Your time abroad is a great way to build contacts and show future employers your resilience and adaptability.
Study and Modules
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.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Credits: 20)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
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
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.
Assessment
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
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.
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 60, Max Credits: 80)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 60)Optional C Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 40)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
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.
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.
Assessment
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 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
You’ll spend your third year studying abroad at one of our many partner universities in Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada or Europe. You’ll be able to select the institution based on the specialisms it offers and agree an individual programme of study with your academic adviser. Your marks will be transferred back to UEA to contribute to your final degree result.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
ou’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. Your third year will be away studying with one of our international partner universities gaining important experience. Finally, back at UEA for your fourth year, you’ll experience 8-9 hours of in contact teaching a week.
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 final 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.
Assessment
Across your years at UEA, 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
During your final 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.
Compulsory Modules
Optional A Modules
(Min Credits: 20, Max Credits: 60)Optional B Modules
(Min Credits: 0, Max Credits: 40)Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that 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. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
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 final 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.
Assessment
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 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.
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 Advanced Highers
- 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 to HE Diploma
- 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
- International Baccalaureate
- 33 points including HL5 in Geography, Maths, Economics, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English 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):
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IELTS: 6.0 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components) for year 1 entry
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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:
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- 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.
- Deferred Entry
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.
Additional Information or 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)
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
View our information about Additional Course Fees.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
After graduating, you’ll have gained a unique skillset to take into a range of specialist marine and environmental careers. Our recent graduates work at the UK Met Office, British Antarctic Survey and Cefas. Alternatively, you might decide to continue your studies with an MSc or apply your research skills to a PhD.
Employability is embedded in our modules, helping you develop your career and skills throughout your course. We work closely with UEA’s Careers Service to help you meet employers (including alumni), explore career options, speak to industry mentors, and apply for internships, volunteering, and graduate jobs.
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
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Offshore wind and marine renewables
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Metocean forecasting
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Benthic surveying and habitat assessment
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Fisheries and aquaculture
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Environmental consulting
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Government and university research