University of Essex

Integrated Master in Science: Tropical Marine Biology

University of EssexColchester Campus, United Kingdom

Course overview

The MSc Tropical Marine Biology at the University of Essex offers comprehensive training in this field, blending advanced theory with practical skills in quantitative methods and data analytics. Coral reefs, which are crucial marine habitats, are under threat from global change, necessitating effective study and protection strategies.

Students engage in practical experiences, such as a field trip to Indonesia focused on coral reef conservation, and are supported in finding relevant work placements. The curriculum covers topics like marine bioresources, ecological analysis, and coral reef management, complemented by an individual research project supervised by leading experts, preparing graduates for various careers in the environmental sector.

Key highlights

  • Specialist focus on tropical marine biology
  • Integrated master's combining undergraduate and master's-level study

Entry requirements

  • GCSE: C/4 — to include Mathematics
  • A-level: ABB-BBB — or 128 - 120 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of 2 full A-levels, including B in Biology, Environmental Science, Life and Health Sciences or Marine Science
  • BTEC: DDM — or 128-120 UCAS tariff points from a minimum of the equivalent of 2 full A-levels
  • International Baccalaureate: 30-32 — to include in the IB Diploma or 128 - 120 UCAS tariff points to include a minimum of 2 Higher Level subjects including 5 in Higher Level Biology

Scholarships

  • Essex Preparation Programme Bursary

    £250 cash bursary.

    Up to £250

  • Hong Kong Undergraduate Scholarship

    The awards offered are a discount of £5,000 per year for a maximum of three years of full-time undergraduate study, up to a maximum of £15,000.

    Up to £15,000

  • International Baccalaureate Excellence Scholarship

    If you're starting at Essex in 2026-27 and achieve academic excellence in your International Baccalaureate, we will offer you a scholarship of £2,000 for your first year of study.

    Up to £2,000

  • Performance Sports Scholarships and Bursaries

    Tier 1 - Tuition fee discount up to 100%, Tier 2 - Cash bursary (of varying amounts), Tier 3 - Access to the above performance package benefits, with a value of up to £1,500.

  • The Always Essex Staff Discount Scholarship

    33% discount of the first-year tuition fee (first two years for part-time study).

  • The International Undergraduate Scholarship

    The award is offered as a £5,000 discount on your tuition fees for the first year of study in 2026-27 only.

    Up to £5,000

  • The Undergraduate Premium Pathway Scholarship

    You may be eligible for a tuition fee discount of £5,000, for each year of study at Essex up to a maximum of 3 years.

    Up to £5,000

Careers this course leads to

  • Marine biologist
  • Marine conservation officer
  • Fisheries scientist
  • Environmental consultant
  • Research scientist
  • Aquarist

Career opportunities

Graduates of  Integrated Master's in Science: Tropical Marine Biology from the University of Essex can take future roles such as: 

  • Research Scientist

  • University Professor

  • Data Scientist

  • Biological Technician

  • Marine Conservationist

Cost of study

The cost for an MSc Tropical Marine Biology at the University of Essex for  International Students is £24,675.  Tuition fees are subject to annual increases.

Admission

Your application for this course can be done through the university's website. You can speak to one of our trained counsellors to learn more about the admission process and help you meet the programme requirement.

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