Marine Geology and Geophysics

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This is a programme designed for graduates in the physical or environmental sciences, mathematics or engineering.

MRes students spend two thirds of their year on their research project and the rest of their time taking taught modules. You can choose from a range of flexible pathways depending on your research interest. These currently include Exploration, Geodynamics, Coastal Processes, Palaeoceanography and Micro-palaeontology. You will develop specific knowledge and skills through your selection of modules and choice of subject for your research project.

The programme is taught by staff from across NOCS who draw on their cutting edge research to create a challenging and stimulating degree programme. You will also be encouraged to attend our research seminars, some delivered by leading visiting scientists.

Career opportunities
* Conversion programme, broadening the knowledge base, and hence widening career options, for candidates from complementary disciplines


* May be taken prior to a PhD in marine geology or geophysics


* A wide range of practical, high-impact careers

The full-time programme lasts one year. The research component is undertaken throughout the year and finishes with the submission of your dissertation by the end of September.

The part-time programme lasts between two to five years. Students normally undertake the taught component over two years. The research component is undertaken throughout your period of study. You will have until the September of your fifth year in which to complete your research and submit your dissertation.

The structure shown below is for full-time students. Delivery for part-time students is agreed on an individual basis.

Year 1
All students complete a common introductory module, Contemporary topics in ocean and earth science. You also take a mix of further introductory and speclalist modules in Semester 1, making a total of four. In Semester 2 you take a further specalist module. The choice of modules depends on your background and chosen pathway. You will also be working on your research projects through the year.

Semester One
Semester 1 modules are delivered in a 'long thin' format. They usually comprise 2 lectures and 1 practical per week over a 10-12 week period.

Compulsory:

* SOES6001 Contemporary topics
* SOES6042 MRes research project

Optional:

* SOES3014 Coastal sediment dynamics
* SOES6004 Applied and marine geophysics
* SOES6014 Introduction to physical oceanography
* SOES6015 Introduction to chemical oceanography
* SOES6016 Introduction to marine geology
* SOES6022 Microfossils, environment and time
* SOES6025 Computational data analysis for geophysicists and ocean scientists
* SOES6037 Geodynamics and solid Earth geophysics
* SOES6059 Basin analysis

Semester Two
Semester 2 modules are delivered in a 'short fat' format. They usually comprise 2 or 3 lectures and 1 practical per day, condensed into a 3 week period.

Compulsory: SOES6042MRes research project Optional:

* SOES6011 Applied coastal sediment dynamics
* SOES6024 Seafloor exploration and surveying 2
* SOES6047 Global climate cycles
* SOES6064 Imperial Barrel Award

Please note: This specification provides a concise summary of the main features of the programme and the learning outcomes that a typical student might reasonably be expected to achieve and demonstrate if s/he takes full advantage of the learning opportunities that are provided. More detailed information can be found in the programme handbook (or other appropriate guide).

You must have a good (2:1) second class Honours degree, or equivalent, in Physical or Environmental Sciences, Mathematics or Engineering. English Language Requirements IELTS band: 6.5 TOEFL paper-based test score : 580 TOEFL iBT® test: 92 IMPORTANT NOTE: Since April 2014 the ETS tests (including TOEFL and TOEIC) are no longer accepted for Tier 4 visa applications to the United Kingdom. The university might still accept these tests to admit you to the university, but if you require a Tier 4 visa to enter the UK and begin your degree programme, these tests will not be sufficient to obtain your Visa. The IELTS test is most widely accepted by universities and is also accepted for Tier 4 visas to the UK- learn more.

Most projects are tied to ongoing research and might involve opportunities for extra travel and use of additional research grants; some partially and fully funded studentships are available.