Ocean and Earth Science by Research (MSc)

Award
Master of Science
Typical Offer
2:1 degree View full entry requirements
Duration
1 year
Course Type
Full-time
Campus
Waterfront (National Oceanography Centre Southampton)
Next course starts
September 2025

About this course

Join one of the largest ocean science communities in Europe and address some of our biggest environmental challenges. You’ll train alongside scientists at a world-leading training centre as you conduct research both in the field and in the laboratory. 

You’ll study at the National Oceanography Centre Southampton (NOCS), our school for ocean science and marine research. Here, you’ll benefit from access to our very own research vessel, the R.V. Callisata, as well as a range of other modern technologies and facilities. 

You’ll have the chance to: 

  • explore a diverse range of topics, from the processes operating on the Earth and its oceans, to the impact of natural and human activity on ecosystems 
  • specialise your studies to better suit your background and career goals 
  • complete a research project using the latest marine environment knowledge 

This course is especially suitable if you already have a foundation in marine or Earth science. It will allow you to develop a specialism from your first degree as you build your knowledge and research skills. 

A Master of Science by Research course differs from a conventional MSc in the balance between teaching and research. As an MSc by Research student, you’ll spend more time getting hands-on experience with your research project, and less time with formal teaching. 

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 lead

Your course lead is Dr Anna Hickman. Her work encompasses biological, physical and chemical oceanography and marine optics.  

Her research focuses on marine phytoplankton. These are oceanic microbes that form the base of the marine food web and generate half of the oxygen we breathe.   

Find out more on her staff profile.

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.