Designed and presented in close collaboration with the state-of-the-art Beaufort Institute and the University?s Coastal and Marine Research Centre, it is designed to give students professional competency to make sound, scientifically-informed, strategic and operational decisions regarding the sustainable governance, use and protection of coastal and marine environments. It also provides training in applied practical skills, with an emphasis on geospatial techniques relevant to coastal and marine data capture, analysis, integration and visualisation. Students will also receive training in important transferrable skills including principles and practice of scientific research, effective communication and presentation techniques, and sound project management.

Course Practicalities

The programme presents a full-time day course of study (Monday to Friday), with delivery through an integrated combination of methods including lectures, seminars and workshops; ?dry? and ?wet? laboratory work; computer-based exercises; private study; field work (onshore and also at sea); and an independent supervised research project.

As part of the development of their thesis, students will be offered placements in the state-of-the-art Beaufort laboratory with direct access to academic and research staff. This should assist students in producing robust research as well as an appreciation of working in an active research environment.