Marine Environmental Science

Marine Environmental Science at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary curriculum designed to equip students with a deep understanding of marine ecosystems, environmental processes, and the human impacts affecting our oceans. This program combines principles from biology, chemistry, geology, and environmental science to provide a holistic view of marine environments, focusing on their conservation, sustainable utilization, and management. Students will engage in rigorous coursework covering marine biology, oceanography, ecological monitoring, pollution control, and marine policy, supported by state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and fieldwork opportunities. The program emphasizes practical skills such as data collection and analysis, geographic information systems (GIS), remote sensing, and environmental assessment techniques, preparing graduates for careers in research, environmental consultancy, marine resource management, and policy formulation. Additionally, students will have the chance to participate in international research projects and internships, gaining valuable hands-on experience in marine conservation efforts, sustainable fisheries management, and climate change mitigation strategies. The curriculum is designed to foster critical thinking, problem-solving, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address complex environmental challenges facing our oceans today. With a focus on local and regional marine issues, as well as global perspectives, the program aims to develop environmentally responsible graduates capable of contributing meaningfully to the preservation and sustainable development of marine environments worldwide. Graduates of this program will be prepared to work with government agencies, non-governmental organizations, research institutions, and the private sector, contributing to the advancement of marine science and sustainable ocean governance.

• Introductory Oceanography;
• Professional Development in Science (Environmental Science Programs). 
• Postgraduate English for Science Studies
• Postgraduate Seminar 
• MPhil Thesis Research
• Presentation and oral defense of the MPhil thesis.

Elective Course List

• Environmental Microbiology
• Special Topics in Environmental Science
• Environmental Impact Assessment
• Ecotoxicology
• Advanced Numerical Methods I
• Computational Fluid Dynamics of Inviscid Flows
• Mathematical Methods in Physics

Requirements

• Applicants  must hold a Bachelor's degree 
• You will fulfill the English Language requirements with one of the following proficiency attainments:TOEFL-iBT 80, TOEFL PBT 550, IELTS Overall score: 6.0
• You are required to nominate 2-5 referees to support your application. Upon your application submission, the referees will be invited by email to complete a reference report online. Referees may attach additional reference letters to the online report if they wish to.
• Remember that you will need to send official documents to substantiate your qualifications/ exam results after accepting an admission offer. 

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology offers various financing options for students enrolled in the Marine Environmental Science program. Tuition fees are set annually and may vary depending on the student’s nationality and specific program requirements. International students are required to pay full tuition fees, which are competitive and designed to support a diverse student body; domestic students benefit from subsidized rates. To assist students with the financial burden, the university provides scholarships based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and financial need. These scholarships are awarded at different levels and can significantly offset tuition costs. Additionally, students may apply for government-funded financial aid schemes, such as the Student Finance Office’s Loan Scheme, which offers low-interest loans to eligible students to cover tuition and living expenses. The university also encourages students to seek external scholarships and sponsorships from environmental organizations, research grants, and industry partners linked to marine sciences. Part-time work opportunities within the university are available, allowing students to work on campus or through approved internships in related fields, helping them to gain experience and supplement their income. Moreover, some program-specific funding may be available for research projects or fieldwork components, supporting students engaged in extensive research activities. The university’s dedicated financial aid office provides guidance and support to help students find appropriate funding sources, complete application processes, and understand eligibility criteria. Overall, the Financing Studies options aim to make Marine Environmental Science education accessible and affordable while encouraging student excellence and research engagement.

The BSc in Marine Environmental Science at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex interactions within marine ecosystems and the various environmental challenges they face. This program emphasizes the integration of biological, chemical, physical, and geological sciences to address issues related to marine pollution, conservation, and sustainable management of marine resources. Students will engage in rigorous coursework that covers fundamental concepts in oceanography, marine biology, environmental chemistry, and marine geosciences, alongside specialized modules in topics such as marine pollution, climate change impacts on oceans, and the use of technology in marine research.

The curriculum combines theoretical learning with practical hands-on experience through laboratory work, field trips, and research projects. Students may have opportunities to participate in marine expeditions or internships with local and international organizations focused on marine conservation and environmental protection. The program aims to equip graduates with the skills necessary for careers in marine environmental management, research, policy-making, and consultancy. It also prepares students for advanced studies or research positions in marine sciences.

The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including specialized laboratories equipped with modern instrumentation for water quality analysis, marine biological studies, and geophysical research. The program is taught by experienced faculty members with expertise in various aspects of marine science and environmental management. Graduates from this program are expected to develop a strong understanding of the science behind marine environmental issues, critical thinking capabilities, and the ability to apply scientific principles to solve real-world problems. The program fosters international collaboration and awareness, reflecting the global importance of marine environmental protection, especially in a region like Hong Kong, where marine resources and environmental concerns are vital.