Ocean Sciences MOSci (Hons) at University of Liverpool

The ocean plays a central role in the Earth’s climate system by regulating the transfer of heat and carbon over the globe. The effect of the ocean on Earth’s climate and on life can only be fully understood by addressing the fundamental biological, physical and chemical processes operating in the environment. This degree route takes a multidisciplinary approach to developing an understanding of the ocean and climate system.

We have strong links with scientists from the National Oceanography Centre in Liverpool, who provide guest lectures and supervision of projects.

The four-year master’s programme, (F710), is based on the same multidisciplinary approach as the three-year (F700) programme. In Year Four we go on to provide you with higher-level skills and knowledge required to work in a research or commercial environment and address the biggest challenges in ocean science. There is a strong emphasis on numerical skills, hands-on laboratory and fieldwork, and independent study.

You will have the opportunity to work with scientists from the National Oceanography Centre, Liverpool, who are international leaders in sea level science and shelf sea physics.

Programme in detail

The first three years follow BSc (Hons) degree programmes offered in ocean sciences, developing a strong, multidisciplinary foundation of knowledge and skills. Semester One of Year Four is focused on developing your knowledge and skills in laboratory techniques and data analysis, writing and reviewing research ideas, and discussing current research issues in ocean science.

The training in Semester One will provide you with the skills to conduct a major independent research project in Semester Two, which will be supervised by ocean scientists from the University and the National Oceanography Centre in Liverpool. This high-level training will prepare you with the critical thinking, communication and writing skills you will need to work in a research environment, as well as an awareness of the future challenges in ocean sciences.

The degree in Ocean Sciences at Liverpool is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology.

Career prospects

There has never been a better time to study Ocean Sciences: to understand how the oceans are warming, where sea level is rising, how the oceans are taking up carbon from the atmosphere, and how these changes are affecting plankton and marine life. Our degree programmes are designed to provide you with the skills to tackle these global environmental challenges. The vast majority of our recent graduates gain employment within a degree-related field or continue further within education and research after graduation.

Recent employers

• Arcus Renewable Energy Consulting Ltd
• Bermuda Institute of Ocean Sciences
• British Oceanographic Data Centre
• Environment Agency
• Lloyds (property insurance)
• Meteorological Office
• OceanWise Marine Data Acquisition and Management
• VerdErg Connectors Limited.