Applied Marine Ecology and Conservation, MSc
| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The MSc in Applied Marine Ecology and Conservation equips individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to tackle critical challenges facing marine environments. Through a blend of theoretical instruction and practical experience, the program prepares graduates for careers in marine conservation, environmental assessment, and resource management. The program's unique features, including industry collaborations and research opportunities, ensure graduates are highly competitive in the job market.
Program Outline
Applied Marine Ecology and Conservation, MSc
Degree Overview:
The MSc in Applied Marine Ecology and Conservation prepares individuals to tackle the critical challenges facing marine environments by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to navigate modern professional roles in this field. The program blends cutting-edge theoretical instruction with practical hands-on experience, offering a comprehensive learning environment.
Objectives:
- Develop a profound understanding of marine ecosystems, biodiversity, and the complex effects of human activities on them.
- Hone a diverse suite of critical skills including statistical analysis, modeling, and geographic information systems for real-world application.
- Acquire advanced research techniques encompassing project planning, data analysis and interpretation, and scientific communication to diverse audiences.
Program Description:
The program fosters a dynamic learning environment through various formats:
- Expert-led talks: Gain insights from renowned academics, government scientists, and industry professionals.
- Individual and group research: Deepen your understanding through research projects tailored to your interests.
- Field and lab work: Engage in practical exercises that bridge theory and practice.
- Interactive learning: Participate in lectures, seminars, and workshops to actively engage with peers and instructors.
Outline:
Structure:
The program comprises three core stages:
Stage 1:
Eight taught courses, encompassing essential knowledge and practical skill development.
Stage 2:
One compulsory course focusing on marine conservation management and a choice of additional courses allowing specialization.
Stage 3:
Completion of a 12-week research project, often conducted in collaboration with external partners.
Modules:
Stage 1 (compulsory):
- Ecological and Environmental Data Analysis using R
- Contemporary Methods for Population Modelling
- Marine Ecosystem Management: Setting the Scene
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (required of all postgraduate students)
Stage 1 (optional):
- Advanced Ecological Statistics using R
- Ecology, Conservation and Society
Stage 2 (compulsory):
- Marine Conservation Management
- Molecular Ecology and Conservation
- Marine Fisheries and Aquaculture
Stage 3 (compulsory):
Assessment:
The program employs continuous assessment throughout, entirely replacing traditional exams. Assessment methods vary depending on the course but may include:
- Written reports
- Oral presentations
- Posters
- Online tests
- Open book assessments
- Literature reviews
- Marine conservation consultation responses
- Stakeholder workshop participation
- Project plans
- Research project reports
Teaching:
The program boasts a diverse team of instructors, including internationally renowned researchers, government scientists, teaching fellows, and marine resource managers. This multidisciplinary approach ensures you receive up-to-date insights and real-world perspectives.
Unique Features:
- Interaction with marine industry leaders, including aquaculture, offshore oil and gas, and renewable energy sectors.
- Guest lectures from prominent figures in nature conservation bodies, NGOs, government agencies, and industry.
- Collaboration opportunities with the Scottish Government's Marine Directorate.
- Access to a diverse range of marine environments for field-based learning opportunities.
Careers:
This program prepares graduates for successful careers in a range of organizations committed to marine conservation, environmental assessment, and resource management. Potential workplaces include:
- Statutory nature conservation bodies
- Government agencies involved in marine science and management
- Environmental consultancies
- Non-governmental organizations
- Postgraduate research positions in academia Additionally, the program's research focus equips graduates to pursue further academic research should they choose.
Other:
- The program aligns with the UK's Natural Environment Research Council's "most wanted" postgraduate and professional skills analysis, ensuring its graduates are highly competitive in the job market.
- Graduates receive the Aberdeen Global Scholarship if self-funded.
- The program enjoys strong industry and research collaborations, offering students real-world learning experiences and networking opportunities.
EU / International students
£27,000
UK
£12,200 In exceptional circumstances there may be additional fees associated with specialist courses, for example field trips.
