MSc Marine and Coastal Sustainability

at University of Exeter

Oceans, seas and coasts represent a new frontier for sustainability science and are increasingly recognised as central to global sustainable development. Growing demand for marine resources, momentum towards a ‘blue economy’, and the increasing vulnerability of coastal populations in the face of climate change present major challenges. Addressing these problems requires trained interdisciplinary scientists and practitioners in marine social and environmental science.

Core modules examine the interlinked nature of social and ecological systems, considering the role of marine resources in contributing to people’s wellbeing and livelihoods, how people contribute to and are impacted by environmental change, and the potential synergies and trade-offs in balancing social and environmental sustainability objectives.

Optional modules enable you to draw on other disciplines to gain an in-depth understanding of the ecology of marine and coastal systems, the science underpinning their management and conservation, and the role of marine and coastal systems in supporting human health.

The modules we outline here provide examples of what you can expect to learn on this degree course based on recent academic teaching. 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.

Compulsory Modules

• Dissertation
• Transdisciplinary Methods for Sustainability Science
• Fisheries Management
• Protected Areas
• Governing the Seas in a Changing World
• Research Design in the Field
• Fundamentals of Management
• Sustainability, CSR and Business Ethics
• Dissertation for MRes Mgt
• Qualitative Research Methods

A 2:1 degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. geography, environmental science, marine biology, politics, anthropology)

Entry requirements are broad and enable applicants from a range of disciplines. Applications outside these will be considered on a case-by-case basis to enable consideration of other relevant experience.

Entry requirements for international students

English language requirements

• IELTS

Overall score 6.5. No less than 6.0 in any section.

• TOEFL

Overall score 90 with minimum scores of 21 for writing, 21 for listening, 22 for reading and 23 for speaking.

2022/23 entry

UK fees per year:
£12,000 full-time; £6,000 part-time

International fees per year:
£23,000 full-time

There is a growing demand for high-quality graduates equipped with a more holistic understanding of environmental and sustainability challenges. Careers in conservation and environmental management increasingly require social science expertise.

The MSc Marine and Coastal Sustainability has been designed for students who wish to work in marine resource management or conservation in some capacity, whether for government, national or international agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), environmental consultancies, or donor organisations. You could also go on to work in a range of other careers, such as journalism, policy analysis, advocacy, or community engagement. The research and academic skills you will acquire will further postgraduate study.