The ocean covers 70% of the Earth’s surface and contains a huge range of ecosystems, from deep sea hydrothermal vents through to shallow estuaries. It's also a critical component of the integrated Earth system, playing a key role in the moderation of our climate, both now and into the future. Far from being a static pool, the marine environment is a dynamic and inherently interdisciplinary system, with complex feedbacks between physical, chemical and biological processes. 

If you’re fascinated by the marine environment, our Marine Sciences degree will take you on a journey through the global oceans, exploring the interconnected physical, biogeochemical, and ecological systems. You’ll discover the vulnerability of marine ecosystems to human activity, consider how marine resources may be used sustainably, and investigate the critical role of the ocean in mitigating climate change. 

ABOUT

What drives ocean currents? Why do phytoplankton bloom? How is ocean acidification linked to climate change? Where does all the plastic in the ocean go? How can marine energy be harnessed? If you’re fascinated by these sorts of questions, this is the degree for you. 

During our Marine Sciences degree, you’ll explore the physical, biogeochemical, and ecological systems that make the seas and oceans around the world such a rich and diverse environment. Throughout the course you’ll develop a wide range of professional and transferable skills, such as analytical problem solving, computing, scientific communication and collaborative research. These are highly sought-after skills for employers in marine industries and the blue economy, including offshore oil and gas, offshore wind, marine renewables, shipping, fisheries and aquaculture, but also for education, research, environmental consulting and other professional occupations. 

UEA’s School of Environmental Sciences is at the cutting edge of interdisciplinary marine and environmental research and you’ll be taught by world-leading scientists in these fields. Through the Collaborative Centre for Sustainable use of the Seas, UEA has strong links with the Centre for Environment, Fisheries and Aquaculture Science (Cefas), who advise industry and the UK government on marine science and policy. Cefas lecturers are embedded in many of our modules and provide further insight into real-world applications of marine science. 

The seas and oceans around the world must be effectively managed to ensure sustainable use of marine resources into the future. This requires an overarching understanding of all the interconnected marine systems and UEA’s Marine Science degree will put you in the unique position to be part of the solution. 

AFTER THE COURSE

After graduating, you’ll have gained a unique skillset to take into a range of specialist marine and environmental careers. Our recent graduates work at the UK Met Office, British Antarctic Survey and Cefas. Alternatively, you might decide to continue your studies with an MSc, or apply your research skills to a PhD. 

Employability is embedded in our modules, helping you develop your career and skills throughout your course. We work closely with UEA’s Careers Service to help you meet employers (including alumni), explore career options, speak to industry mentors, and apply for internships, volunteering, and graduate jobs.

CAREER DESTINATIONS

Examples of careers that you could enter include: 

• Offshore wind and marine renewables 

• Metocean forecasting 

• Benthic surveying and habitat assessment 

• Fisheries and aquaculture 

• Environmental consulting 

• Government and university research