This Master’s degree programme consists solely of a 12-month research project. With several years as a senior oceanographer you will already have the skills, knowledge and expertise to undertake this stand-alone independent, workplace based project.
You will be encouraged to discover your own research subject for investigation; whether that’s researching new technologies, reviewing the science behind the day-to-day oceanography strategies or the impact of climate change on the ocean and whether the role of an oceanographer might evolve. Whatever you decide, we recommend your project be aligned with your aspirations in your current or chosen field of work.
During the 12 months you will plan, execute and report on your chosen project. Following successful completion you will graduate and be awarded the MSc Advanced Oceanography for Professionals by the University of Plymouth.
Please note, there are no taught modules as part of this programme.
Application Information
A copy of your CV
A suitable English language certificate, for example an IELTS. A full list of certificates accepted can be found here. (For International students only)
Copies of academic certificates and/or transcripts
A copy of your passport (photo page only)
A 200-300 word personal statement explaining your motivation for wanting to join this programme. You may find our Guidance document helpful.
Entry Requirements
You must possess one of the below:
Post Graduate Diploma in Oceanography or similar
Several years experience in a senior Oceanography role
And
English language certificate. For example an IELTS score of 6.5. For a full list of English language certificates accepted click here.
Coursework Submissions
Peer Review Forum Task
Weeks 4-6 (S)
Annotated Bibliography
Week 7 (F)
Ethical Approval
Week 10 (F)
Project Proposal
Week 10 (S)
Dissertation
Week 49 (S)
Presentation
Weeks 50-52 (S)
(S) Summative (F) Formative
Suggested Pre-Reading List
Bell, J. and Water, S. (2018). Doing Your Research Project: a Guide for First-Time Researchers (7th Ed.) McGraw Hill. Maidenhead.
Creswell, J.W. and Creswell, J.D. (2018). Research Design. Qualitative, Quantitative and Mixed Methods Approaches. (5th Ed.) Sage. London.
Denscombe, M. (2021). The Good Research Guide. (7th Ed.). Open University Press. London.
MLA College and the University of Plymouth use Harvard style referencing and it is advisable to pre-study on the importance of referencing on all academic coursework and how to do it, which is available here.
University Degrees validated by the University of Plymouth
Graduate testimonials
The reason I study with MLA College is because of the convenience. Throughout this year I have to move in between different countries so the remote settings of the study helps me a lot
Whilst we deliver our programmes from a distance, that doesn’t mean we expect you to achieve everything without a friendly voice to guide you. Our expert team of academics are on hand to support you throughout your studies, whenever you need them the most.
Your MLA College Student Experience team, Abigail White and Charlie Vosper, are the first point of contact for enrolled students who are in need of pastoral support, including requests under the Extenuating Circumstances policy for matters related to their academic studies. Abigail and Charlie are also responsible for monitoring student engagement and academic progression and will contact students directly to offer assistance should they feel that intervention is needed.