University of Hull

What you'll study

This MSc combines core conservation science with practical skills for working in marine and estuarine environments. You will study ecological principles and their application to marine biodiversity, develop field and laboratory techniques for marine monitoring, and learn quantitative skills for data analysis and mapping.

• Core topics: marine ecology and biodiversity, conservation science and policy, protected area design and management, and fisheries ecology.
• Practical skills: field survey techniques for intertidal and subtidal habitats, invertebrate and fish identification, sampling design, laboratory processing, and health & safety for fieldwork.
• Analytical methods: statistics for ecological data, spatial analysis and GIS, remote sensing applications in coastal environments, and ecological modelling.
• Research and professional practice: research methods, science communication, stakeholder engagement, and conservation management planning.
• Dissertation project: an independent research project supervised by academic staff or in collaboration with external partners (e.g. NGOs, government agencies or industry), drawing together fieldwork, data analysis and a written thesis.

Teaching methods include lectures, practical classes, field trips to local estuaries and the North Sea coast, laboratory sessions, workshops and a substantial research project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in a relevant subject such as biology, marine biology, ecology, environmental science, or a closely related discipline, typically at upper second-class (2:1) honours level or international equivalent. Candidates with a lower honours degree (2:2) plus relevant practical experience or demonstrable professional development in marine or conservation work may be considered.

Practical experience—such as volunteer, internship or paid work in field surveys, lab work, habitat restoration, fisheries, or conservation organisations—is an advantage. Applicants who studied in a language other than English will need to demonstrate proficiency equivalent to the level required for UK postgraduate study.

Career prospects

Graduates from this MSc go on to a mix of roles across conservation, research and resource management. Typical career destinations include positions with environmental and conservation NGOs, statutory conservation bodies, fisheries and marine management agencies, environmental consultancies, and local authorities.

Job titles held by alumni include marine conservation officer, environmental consultant, marine surveyor, fisheries analyst, coastal officer, policy advisor, and project officer for habitat restoration. The degree also provides a strong foundation for research careers and those wishing to pursue a PhD in marine ecology, conservation science or related fields.

Why study at University of Hull

The University of Hull benefits from a location adjacent to the Humber Estuary and within reach of North Sea coastal environments, offering excellent opportunities for estuarine and coastal fieldwork. The university has active groups working on marine and environmental science, with staff expertise in estuarine ecology, fisheries, biodiversity conservation and applied monitoring.

Students have access to laboratory facilities, specialised equipment for marine sampling, GIS and statistical support, and collaborative links with regional conservation organisations and regulatory bodies. The programme emphasises hands-on training, applied research projects and engagement with stakeholders, preparing graduates to work effectively in the marine conservation sector.