Overview

The Earth and Ocean Sciences M.Sc. at the University of Victoria provides an advanced multidisciplinary education focused on the physical and biological processes of our planet. This programme integrates geology, geophysics, oceanography, and atmospheric sciences to address critical global challenges. Students benefit from a curriculum that balances theoretical knowledge with extensive practical experience in diverse environments.

Why Earth and Ocean Sciences at University of Victoria?

The university holds a distinguished position as the top-ranked institution in Canada for climate action, providing an ideal environment for environmental research. Students gain unique access to regional expertise through partnerships with the Canadian Centre for Climate Modelling and Analysis and the Institute of Ocean Sciences. Learning extends beyond the classroom with immersive field trips, dedicated field schools, and scientific marine cruises. These facilities allow researchers to investigate topics such as marine pollution, groundwater contamination, and seismic activity firsthand.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

International fee: CAD 2801 per semester
National fee: CAD 2221 per semester

Visit the Fees and Funding section for a breakdown in your local currency.

Syllabus

The curriculum is designed around a central research thesis supported by advanced coursework in specialised scientific disciplines. Modules may include:

Geochemistry
Biological Oceanography
Climate Theory and Modelling
Structural Geology
Sedimentology
Geophysics
Ocean Acoustics
Petrology
Ocean Mixing

Careers with Earth and Ocean Sciences

Graduates are prepared for professional roles across various scientific and environmental sectors. The programme develops expertise suitable for careers in climate modelling, resource management, and environmental consultancy. Many alumni find opportunities within governmental organisations such as the Geological Survey of Canada or pursue further academic research in geophysics and marine biology. The optional co-op component further enhances employability by connecting students with industry partners and practical work placements during their studies.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Located on the southern-most tip of an island, UVic is uniquely situated to offer you access to a rich and diverse biome to study.

The research in Earth and ocean sciences is designed to offer a broad spectrum of skills and focuses.
In this program, you’ll receive hands-on mentorship from our faculty as you complete your thesis.

The skills that you’ll learn here are universal, but will give you an edge in careers that focus on the planet.

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 24 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2026-09-03 00:00:00

Application deadline not specified.

Language

English

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

60 alternative credits

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

Victoria, Canada

Disciplines

Earth Sciences Oceanography View 8 other Masters in Oceanography in Canada

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Academic requirements

GPA

Required

English requirements

TOEFL^® IBT

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PTE Academic

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IELTS

6.5

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Applicants for a graduate degree in Earth and Ocean Sciences should have a Major or Honours degree in a closely related science.

A student who does not have such a degree can be admitted to the program but may be required to complete additional makeup courses. In doing so, the student must obtain a grade of at least B (5.0) in each makeup course, and an average of B+ (6.0) in the makeup courses.

Mature students are advised to consult the Faculty regulations regarding conditional admittance.
Inquiries concerning the graduate program may be addressed to the SEOS Graduate Secretary, School of Earth and Ocean Sciences. Application forms for admission, which include the indication of need for financial assistance, can be obtained directly from the Graduate Admissions and Records website. A statement of research interests must be submitted with the completed application.

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Make sure to cover your health, travel, and stay while studying abroad. Even global coverages can miss important items like Additional medical costs, Repatriation, Liability etc. Make sure your student insurance covers your needs.

Studyportals partnered with Aon to provide you with the best affordable student insurance, for a carefree experience away from home.

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Starting from €0.53/day, free cancellation any time.

Remember, countries and universities may have specific insurance requirements. To learn more about how student insurance work at University of Victoria and/or in Canada, please visit Student Insurance Portal.

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

5602 CAD / year

≈ 5602 CAD / year
Domestic Applies to you

Applies to you

Citizens or residents

4442 CAD / year

≈ 4442 CAD / year

Living costs

Victoria

Canada

1490 - 2092 CAD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

Win a €10000 Scholarship! Deadline: 30 June 2020

Embark on your journey with the Studyportals Scholarship! We're giving away a total of 20,000 euros to help you achieve your dream of studying abroad.

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Master's scholarship opportunities for Earth and Ocean Sciences.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

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About

Overview

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Student Insurance via Studyportals Partner

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic Applies to you

Living costs

Victoria

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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