University of Malta

What you'll study

This programme delivers a balanced mix of theory, applied skills and independent research. Core themes include marine and coastal ecology, fisheries biology and stock assessment, aquaculture principles, marine spatial planning and policy, quantitative methods (including statistics and GIS), and environmental impact assessment.

• Marine and Coastal Ecology: foundation concepts in marine ecosystems, biodiversity, food webs and habitat dynamics, with emphasis on Mediterranean systems.
• Fisheries Science and Stock Assessment: population dynamics, sampling methods, catch and effort data analysis, sustainable harvest strategies and monitoring approaches.
• Aquaculture and Seafood Production: husbandry, health management, value-chain considerations and sustainable production practices.
• Marine Policy, Governance and Law: national and international frameworks that govern marine resources, including fisheries management, conservation policy and stakeholder engagement.
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Spatial Analysis: mapping, habitat modelling and tools for marine spatial planning and marine protected area (MPA) design.
• Research Methods and Statistics: experimental design, statistical analysis, data management and scientific communication.
• Dissertation / Research Project: an independent piece of applied research, often involving fieldwork, lab work or placement with an external partner.

Teaching typically combines lectures, practical laboratory and field sessions, computer workshops and supervised research. Assessment methods include coursework, practical reports, examinations, presentations and the final dissertation or project report.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an honours degree or equivalent qualification in a relevant discipline such as biology, marine science, environmental science, fisheries, aquaculture, geography or a related social science. Candidates with substantial relevant professional experience may also be considered.

• Academic qualifications: an undergraduate degree in a related field. Specific grade-level requirements follow the University of Malta’s general postgraduate admissions regulations.
• English language: evidence of proficiency in English is required for applicants whose first language is not English; acceptable evidence includes recognised test scores or equivalent qualifications in line with University of Malta policy.
• Supporting documentation: application form, curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, and at least one academic or professional reference. A statement of purpose outlining research interests or career goals is usually requested.
• Interview / portfolio: some applicants may be invited for interview or asked to submit a portfolio if relevant.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme go on to a range of roles across the marine and maritime sector. Typical career paths include:

• Fisheries and aquaculture management or technical officer roles with government agencies, regional bodies or industry firms.
• Environmental consultancy and impact assessment, advising on marine planning, coastal developments and compliance.
• Research positions in universities, research institutes or international organisations focused on marine science and resource sustainability.
• Conservation and NGO roles working on marine protected areas, biodiversity conservation and community outreach.
• Data analysis, GIS and monitoring specialist roles supporting marine spatial planning and ecosystem assessments.
• Further study at doctoral level for those pursuing academic or high-level research careers.

Why study at University of Malta

The University of Malta provides a strong local and regional context for marine and fisheries studies. Its island setting offers direct access to Mediterranean coastal and offshore environments for fieldwork and applied training. The university has dedicated laboratory facilities, teaching vessels and links with local authorities, marine research centres and industry partners, which support placements and collaborative projects.

Students benefit from multidisciplinary teaching staff with expertise across ecology, fisheries, policy and socio-economics, and from a small-cohort environment that encourages close supervision of research projects. The programme emphasises transferable skills—such as data analysis, GIS, scientific communication and stakeholder engagement—preparing graduates for a broad spectrum of professional roles in the marine sector.