Climate Change: Managing the Marine Environment Heriot-Watt University

Overview

The Climate Change: Managing the Marine Environment MSc offered by Heriot-Watt University provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding and mitigating the impacts of global warming on oceanic ecosystems. This programme bridges the gap between biological sciences and environmental management, preparing students for professional roles in the maritime sector. You will explore the complex relationships between climate shifts, economic pressures, and marine conservation strategies.

Why Climate Change: Managing the Marine Environment at Heriot-Watt University?

Students benefit from the world-class expertise of the Institute of Life and Earth Sciences and the Centre for Marine Biodiversity and Biotechnology. The university is a leading institution for multidisciplinary research, offering access to advanced facilities at both the Edinburgh and Orkney campuses. Learning is deeply integrated with current research, often allowing students to contribute to peer-reviewed publications through their dissertations. The curriculum is designed alongside industry experts to ensure that graduates possess the technical and managerial skills required by modern environmental organisations.

Tuition Fee Breakdown

• International fee: GBP 29992 per year
• National fee: GBP 15200 per year

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

Syllabus

The curriculum combines core scientific principles with practical management tools. Modules may include:

• Applied Research Design and Analysis
• Marine Resources and Sustainability
• Climate Change, Sustainability and Adaptation
• Marine Environmental Monitoring
• GIS for Marine and Environmental Scientists
• Oceanography
• Marine Planning
• Fisheries Sustainability and Gear Technology
• Marine Ecotoxicology

Careers with Climate Change: Managing the Marine Environment

Graduates are well-prepared for diverse professional pathways within the global marine and environmental sectors. The programme develops the scientific and managerial competencies necessary for roles in government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and private industry. Common career destinations include marine planning, environmental consultancy, and academic research. By focusing on practical skills such as marine surveying and data analysis, the degree ensures students are ready to implement sustainable solutions in various maritime contexts.