About this course
On this MSci Oceanography degree, you'll join one of the largest marine science communities in Europe. You'll address key environmental challenges facing our planet and study marine ecosystems and ocean processes. This includes the opportunity to explore some of the remotest places on Earth.
Go from classroom, to lab, to the field as you study at the world-leading National Oceanography Centre Southampton (NOCS). Our 4-year integrated master’s course will allow you to specialise through years 3 and 4, and to develop your research interests with experts in the field.
You’ll study topics such as:
- coastal change, from beach dynamics to sea level rise
- ocean currents, globally connecting tropics to poles
- the physical and chemical controls on life in the oceans
Fieldwork, practical skills and independent research are core parts of this programme. You’ll have the opportunity to:
- choose an independent research project from the range of research that we cover
- use modern instruments and sampling methods abroad our research vessel, the RV Callista
- use laboratory analysis to explore the makeup of marine environments
- develop essential computing skills for professional data analysis
- obtain qualifications in first aid and sea survival techniques
You’ll gain the support, guidance and expertise of researchers at the forefront of their fields.
You’ll graduate with the knowledge and skills necessary to follow a career in areas like:
- environmental consultancy
- ocean and climate research
- coastal engineering and management
This degree is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST).
Practicals which use animals or their tissues are an important part of the course. These practicals follow ethical policies and we'll make adjustments for you if you have valid concerns about taking part.
We regularly review our courses to ensure and improve quality. This course may be revised as a result of this. Any revision will be balanced against the requirement that the student should receive the educational service expected. Find out why, when, and how we might make changes.
Our courses are regulated in England by the Office for Students (OfS).
Course location
This course is based at Waterfront (National Oceanography Centre Southampton).
Awarding body
This qualification is awarded by the University of Southampton.
Download the Course Description Document
The Course Description Document details your course overview, your course structure and how your course is taught and assessed.
Entry requirements
For Academic year 202526
A-levels
AAB including two acceptable science subjects (minimum of grade B)
A-levels additional information
Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking. Acceptable science subject are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Science, Geology or Physics. Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required. You will be required to attend an interview.
A-levels with Extended Project Qualification
If you are taking an EPQ in addition to 3 A levels, you will receive the following offer in addition to the standard A level offer: ABB including two preferred science subjects, and grade A in the EPQ
A-levels contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all applicants with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise an applicant's potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Diploma
Pass, with 34 points overall with 17 points at Higher Level, including at least 5 and 6 in two Higher Level science subjects.
International Baccalaureate Diploma additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths (Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation), Environmental Science, Geology or Physics.
International Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
International Baccalaureate Career Programme (IBCP) statement
Offers will be made on the individual Diploma Course subject(s) and the career-related study qualification. The CP core will not form part of the offer. Where there is a subject pre-requisite(s), applicants will be required to study the subject(s) at Higher Level in the Diploma course subject and/or take a specified unit in the career-related study qualification. Applicants may also be asked to achieve a specific grade in those elements. Please see the University of Southampton International Baccalaureate Career-Related Programme (IBCP) Statement for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
BTEC
D in the BTEC Extended Certificate plus AA in two acceptable science A Level subjects. We do not accept the BTEC National Diploma/ BTEC National Extended Diploma without two AA grades in acceptable science A Level subjects,
RQF BTEC
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Environmental Science, Geology, Geography or Physics. Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
QCF BTEC
D in the BTEC Subsidiary Diploma plus AA in two acceptable science A Level subjects. We do not accept the BTEC Diploma/BTEC Extended Diploma without two AA grades in two acceptable science A Level subjects
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
Access to HE Diploma
60 credits with a minimum of 45 credits at Level 3 of which 39 credits must be at Distinction and 6 credits at Merit.
Access to HE additional information
A core science Access to HE Diploma to contain Level 3 modules in Biology (to include ecology) and either Chemistry, Physics or Environmental Science and Maths. If you are unsure whether the Access you are studying would be accepted, please contact the Admissions Team before submitting an application.
Irish Leaving Certificate
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2017)
H1, H2, H2, H2, H2, H2 including two science subject
Irish Leaving Certificate (first awarded 2016)
AAAABB to include to include two preferred subjects.
Irish certificate additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Science, Geology or Physics. Applicants will be required to have achieved a pass in Mathematics and English at ILC Grade C or 04, the equivalent of GCSE grade C/grade 4.
Scottish Qualification
Offers will be based on exams being taken at the end of S6. Subjects taken and qualifications achieved in S5 will be reviewed. Careful consideration will be given to an individual’s academic achievement, taking in to account the context and circumstances of their pre-university education.
Please see the University of Southampton’s Curriculum for Excellence Scotland Statement (PDF) for further information. Applicants are advised to contact their Faculty Admissions Office for more information.
Cambridge Pre-U
D3, D3, M2 in three Principal subjects including two science subjects at a minimum of M2
Cambridge Pre-U additional information
Acceptable science subject are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Science, Geology or Physics. Cambridge Pre-U's can be used in combination with other qualifications such as A Levels to achieve the equivalent of the typical offer, where D3 can be used in lieu of A Level grade A or grade M2 can be used in lieu of grade B.
Welsh Baccalaureate
AAB from 3 A levels including two acceptable science subjects or AA from two A levels subjects including two acceptable science subjects and B from the Advanced Welsh Baccalaureate Skills Challenge Certificate
Welsh Baccalaureate additional information
Acceptable science subjects are Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Maths, Environmental Science, Geology or Physics. Where this offer is satisfied by including grades achieved in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics, a Pass in the practical science assessment is additionally required. Offers typically exclude General Studies and Critical Thinking.
Welsh Baccalaureate contextual offer
We are committed to ensuring that all learners with the potential to succeed, regardless of their background, are encouraged to apply to study with us. The additional information gained through contextual data allows us to recognise a learner’s potential to succeed in the context of their background and experience. Applicants who are highlighted in this way will be made an offer which is lower than the typical offer for that programme.
T-Level
Not accepted for this course. Applicants with a T Level in a relevant subject should apply for the Science Foundation Year
Other requirements
GCSE requirements
Applicants must hold GCSE English Language (or GCSE English), Mathematics and Science at minimum grade C/4..
Find the equivalent international qualifications for our entry requirements.
English language requirements
If English isn't your first language, you'll need to complete an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to demonstrate your competence in English. You'll need all of the following scores as a minimum:
IELTS score requirements
- overall score
- 6.5
- reading
- 6.0
- writing
- 6.0
- speaking
- 6.0
- listening
- 6.0
We accept other English language tests. Find out which English language tests we accept.
If you don’t meet the English language requirements, you can achieve the level you need by completing a pre-sessional English programme before you start your course.
You might meet our criteria in other ways if you do not have the qualifications we need. Find out more about:
- our Ignite your Journey scheme for students living permanently in the UK (including residential summer school, application support and scholarship)
- skills you might have gained through work or other life experiences (otherwise known as recognition of prior learning)
Find out more about our Admissions Policy.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
Course structure
Your first year will introduce you to the ocean systems. You'll develop a foundation in the biology, physics, chemistry and geology of the marine environment. You'll gain the field and laboratory skills, including boat work, that will underpin your studies.
In your second year, you'll apply your scientific knowledge and focus on a number of exciting pathways.
In your third year, you'll tackle more advanced topics and explore contemporary issues, including environmental management and changes in climate.
In your fourth year, you'll work with staff in the university, NOCS, or industry to produce a dissertation with a strong research or applied focus. You'll also choose specialist modules to prepare you for your onward career or study plans.
If you get top grades in your first year, you may be able to study abroad at a globally renowned research institution, usually for one semester. You might study areas such as polar oceanography or tropical storms, in countries including the USA, Norway and Australia.
Year 1 overview
You'll study 5 compulsory modules:
- Introduction to Ocean Biogeochemistry
- Earth and Ocean System
- Physical Oceanography 1
- Introduction to Marine Ecology and Evolution
- Key Skills for Marine Scientists
You'll also study 1 of these compulsory maths modules, based on your existing maths qualifications:
- Introductory Mathematics for Chemists and Oceanographers
- Mathematical Methods for Scientists
- Quantitative Earth and Ocean Sciences
You'll then choose the rest of your modules from a wide range of options, including:
- Macromolecules of Life
- Dynamic Landscapes
- Quantitative Methods in Marine Sciences
- Ecology and Evolution
- The Earth System
Year 2 overview
You'll take 6 compulsory modules to build your expertise:
- Coastal and Estuarine Oceanography 1 and 2
- Geochemistry
- Methods in Oceanography
- Physical Oceanography 2
- Phytoplankton and Primary Production
If you took the Mathematical Methods for Scientists module in year 1, you'll choose 2 modules from the list below.
If you did not take the Mathematical Methods for Scientists module in year 1, you'll take a Quantitative Methods in Marine Science module here. You'll also choose 1 optional module from this list:
- Geohazards and Earth Resources
- Marine Benthos Ecology
- Mathematical Methods for Scientists
- Palaeobiology
Year 3 overview
You'll study 4 compulsory modules:
- Applied Oceanography and Fieldwork
- Oceanography and Marine Biology Research Training
- Shelf Seas and Shelf Edge Dynamics
- Advanced Oceanography Fieldwork
You'll choose 4 more modules from a list of options, including:
- Biogeochemical Cycles in the Earth System
- Large Scale Ocean Processes and Climate
- Coastal Sediment Dynamics
- Zooplankton Ecology and Processes
- Computational Data Analysis for Geophysicists and Ocean Scientists
Year 4 overview
You'll complete 3 final compulsory modules:
- Advanced Oceanography Fieldwork
- Contemporary Topics in Oceanography and Marine Biology
- MSci Advanced Independent Research Project
You'll choose how to develop your specialist knowledge by selecting 2 modules from a broad list of options, including:
- Applied and Marine Geophysics
- Deep Sea Ecology
- Ecological Modelling
- Environmental Radioactivity and Radiochemistry
- Global Climate Cycles
- Introductory Remote Sensing of the Ocean
- Seafloor Exploration and Surveying
Want more detail? See all the modules in the course.
Modules
The modules outlined provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. As a research-led University, we undertake a continuous review of our course to ensure quality enhancement and to manage our resources. The precise modules available to you in future years may vary depending on staff availability and research interests, new topics of study, timetabling and student demand. Find out why, when and how we might make changes.
For entry in academic year 2025 to 2026
Year 1 modules
You must study the following modules in year 1:
Coevolution of Life and Earth
Dynamic Earth
Earth and Ocean System
An introduction to the fundamental processes which determine the environment of the Earth and the general functioning of the Earth as a system.
How to be Scientifically Literate
Scientific literacy refers to the ability of individuals to understand, evaluate, and engage with scientific information and concepts in a meaningful way. It involves not only knowing scientific facts but also understanding the processes of scientific inq...
Introduction to Environmental Biogeochemistry
Introduction to Marine Ecology and Evolution
Physics of the Ocean
Year 2 modules
You must study the following modules in year 2:
Geochemistry
This module will introduce the fundamental chemical processes that operate within the Earth system. You will learn about the origin, distribution and abundance of chemical elements in the Earth system. Via lectures and practical exercises, we will introdu...
Monitoring Coastal and Estuarine Environments
Ocean Data Analysis and Modelling
Phytoplankton and Primary Production
Sediment in the Environment
This module considers sediment in the environment from small-scale to global-scale processes. At the small scale you will learn how to characterise sediments and the fluids that transport them. At the global scale you will learn about the main environment...
The Dynamic Ocean
You must also choose from the following modules in year 2:
Geohazards
Global Climate Change: Science, Impacts and Policy
The topic is addressed from three perspectives: the science of climate change, impact and adaptation, and policy towards adaptation and mitigation. One of the pre-requisites for GGES3019
Global Sustainability Challenges
The global challenge that is 'sustainability' impacts every dimension of all of our lives. Regardless of your degree, the social, cultural, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability have important implications for your studies, your daily ...
Marine Benthic Ecology
Zooplankton Ecology and Processes
Year 3 modules
You must study the following modules in year 3:
Applied Oceanography and Fieldwork
The module consists of the main Oceanography undergraduate fieldcourse which takes place at the end of Semester 2 (late June to early July) following the exam period plus some work on report writing and data presentation in Semester 1 of the following aca...
Ocean and Earth Science Research Training
This module will develop the skills necessary to become an independent researcher, and provide the underpinning skills base needed to undertake MSci level independent research. It will introduce you to a number of topics that reflect the range of research...
Shelf Seas and Shelf Edge Dynamics
You must also choose from the following modules in year 3:
Biogeochemical Cycles in the Earth System
This module looks at the operation of the Ocean as a biogeochemical entity within the larger Earth System. There is a strong focus on how the Earth System will respond to anthropogenic impacts and global change.
Coastal Sediment Dynamics
The coastal zone supports the livelihood and well-being of hundreds of millions of people, valuable ecosystems and vital industry, trade links and energy networks. The movement of coastal sediments by natural processes and human interventions continually ...
Computational Data Analysis for Ocean and Earth Scientists
The module will present a variety of different types of oceanographic, meteorological, geophysical, and remote sensing data and will explore methods for processing, analysing and modelling using Python. This module introduces you to the essential skill...
Environmental and Engineering Geology
This module examines current topics in environmental and engineering geology – the practical application of geoscience principles in the solving of environmental and engineering problems. Through a mix of lecture, discussion and practical sessions, you wi...
Large Scale Ocean Processes and Climate
This module uses contemporary observational datasets and model output to explore large-scale ocean dynamics, variability and its influence on the climate
Palaeoclimate Change
Year 4 modules
You must study the following modules in year 4:
Advanced Independent Research Project
Your Advanced Independent Research Project is the culmination of your MSci degree. All projects are tailored to the interests of individual students and could involve an external organisation (e.g. industry or research institution) or be hosted by one of...
Advanced Oceanography Fieldwork
Contemporary Topics in Ocean and Earth Science
This module deals with contemporary issues in Ocean and Earth Science. It will develop your presentation and writing skills through directed independent study of two chosen contemporary topics. The topics are provided by the module lead and associated sta...
You must also choose from the following modules in year 4:
Advanced Exploration Geophysics
The module covers, at advanced level, three topics that are central to applied geophysics in the marine environment.
Biogeochemical Cycles in the Earth System
This module looks at the operation of the Ocean as a biogeochemical entity within the larger Earth System. There is a strong focus on how the Earth System will respond to anthropogenic impacts and global change.
Climate and Climate Change
This module is designed to give a fundamental understanding of the Earth's climate and use this to examine topical issues in climate change research. A hands-on approach enables you to apply your newly learned skills to real-world problems quickly.
Computational Data Analysis for Ocean and Earth Scientists
The module will present a variety of different types of oceanographic, meteorological, geophysical, and remote sensing data and will explore methods for processing, analysing and modelling using Python. This module introduces you to the essential skill...
Ecological Modelling
This course is intended as a beginner’s guide to marine ecological modelling. It is suitable for students across a broad range of academic backgrounds and does not assume a high level of prior mathematical knowledge or experience in coding. The course...
Environmental Radioactivity and Radiochemistry
Large Scale Ocean Processes and Climate
This module uses contemporary observational datasets and model output to explore large-scale ocean dynamics, variability and its influence on the climate
Sea Level Rise and Coastal Management
Understanding changes in sea level is of the utmost importance, as it: (1) shapes the coastlines; (2) affects the livelihoods of hundreds of millions of people living in the world’s coastal regions, and (3) is a key indicator of climate change. Sea-level ...
Seafloor Exploration and Surveying 2
In this module students work through many of the data analysis and interpretation steps to evaluate plans for an offshore windfarm, using an example site in the east Solent. With the University of Southampton’s unique access to its own research vessel t...
Shelf Seas and Shelf Edge Dynamics
Learning and assessment
The learning activities for this course include the following:
- lectures
- classes and tutorials
Course time
How you'll spend your course time:
Year 1
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 1:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- essays
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 1:
Year 2
Study time
Your scheduled learning, teaching and independent study for year 2:
How we'll assess you
- coursework, laboratory reports and essays
- essays
- oral presentations
- written exams
Your assessment breakdown
Year 2:
Academic support
You’ll be supported by a personal academic tutor and have access to a senior tutor.
Course leader
Philip Goodwin is the course leader.
Careers
This MSci Oceanography degree will prepare you for work in a range of industries. Our alumni work in key oceanography and marine geologist jobs, including:
- research institutes (such as NERC)
- Natural England
- CEFAS
- the Environment Agency
- civil engineering and construction
- exploration geophysics and geophysical survey projects
- seismology
- conservation
- fisheries
- mining sector
Recent recruiters include:
- the British Antarctic Survey
- the Environment Agency
- ABP Research
- BP
- the Oil Spill Response Centre
- Seastar Survey
- British Maritime Technology
- the Environmental Marine Unit (EMU)
Alternatively, you can choose to take a specialised Masters degree in fields such as coastal management, marine technology or maritime law.
All of our oceanography programmes are accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST).
Careers services at Southampton
We are a top 20 UK university for employability (QS Graduate Employability Rankings 2022). Our Careers, Employability and Student Enterprise team will support you. This support includes:
- work experience schemes
- CV and interview skills and workshops
- networking events
- careers fairs attended by top employers
- a wealth of volunteering opportunities
- study abroad and summer school opportunities
We have a vibrant entrepreneurship culture and our dedicated start-up supporter, Futureworlds, is open to every student.
Work in industry
In your third year, you can gain your own teaching skills by taking a placement in a school or college with the Undergraduate Ambassadors Scheme.
Fees, costs and funding
Tuition fees
Fees for a year's study:
- UK students pay £9,250.
- EU and international students pay £28,800.
The Government has recently announced changes to UK tuition fees from September 2025 onwards. We will update our website to reflect this shortly.
What your fees pay for
Your tuition fees pay for the full cost of tuition and all examinations.
Find out how to:
You'll be responsible for paying certain costs not covered by the tuition fee. These include:
- some field trip costs
- personal computer or laptop and data storage devices
- books that are not available in the library
- equipment and materials used in projects
- costs related to modules from different courses
Accommodation and living costs, such as travel and food, are not included in your tuition fees. There may also be extra costs for retake and professional exams.
Explore:
Bursaries, scholarships and other funding
If you're a UK or EU student and your household income is under £25,000 a year, you may be able to get a University of Southampton bursary to help with your living costs. Find out about bursaries and other funding we offer at Southampton.
If you're a care leaver or estranged from your parents, you may be able to get a specific bursary.
Get in touch for advice about student money matters.
Scholarships and grants
You may be able to get a scholarship or grant to help fund your studies.
We award scholarships and grants for travel, academic excellence, or to students from under-represented backgrounds.
Support during your course
The Student Hub offers support and advice on money to students. You may be able to access our Student Support fund and other sources of financial support during your course.
Funding for EU and international students
Find out about funding you could get as an international student.
How to apply
What happens after you apply?
We will assess your application on the strength of your:
- predicted grades
- academic achievements
- personal statement
- academic reference
We'll aim to process your application within 2 to 6 weeks, but this will depend on when it is submitted. Applications submitted in January, particularly near to the UCAS equal consideration deadline, might take substantially longer to be processed due to the high volume received at that time.
Equality and diversity
We treat and select everyone in line with our Equality and Diversity Statement.
Got a question?
Please contact our enquiries team if you're not sure that you have the right experience or qualifications to get onto this course.
Email: enquiries@southampton.ac.uk
Tel: +44(0)23 8059 5000
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