Masters courses
Marine biology videos
Watch our marine biology videos which include ground-breaking underwater lectures, the first of their kind.
These lectures revolutionised the teaching and learning experience during dives on tropical coral reef systems.
Our multi-disciplinary environment enables us to offer a wide range of
modular, interdisciplinary taught postgraduate courses which provide targeted
training in specialist areas of biological sciences.
In addition, we collaborate with a number of academic departments from across
the University (including social sciences and humanities), and oversee our unique
interdisciplinary MA/MSc Environmental Governance: the Natural World, Science
and Society.
Our academic staff have expertise in:
- biophysics, biochemistry;
- cell, molecular biology, molecular medicine;
- environmental microbiology, photosynthesis, plant productivity, ecology;
and
- environmental science.
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MSc Biotechnology
With over ten years experience of delivering this subject, we are established as offering one of the most popular
and highly regarded courses of biotechnology in the UK. We equip you with advanced training in cutting-edge 'omics' technology
that is highly valued by employers in both academia and the commercial sector.
The flexible modular structure of our course allows specialisation in industrial, microbial, agricultural or medical biotechnology,
providing you with a broad spectrum of future career opportunities.
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MA/MSc Environmental Governance: the Natural World, Science
and Society
An unprecedented combination of pressures is threatening the health of social
and ecological systems across the world. Continued population growth, rapidly
changing consumption patterns and climate change are driving limited resources
of food, energy, water and materials towards and beyond critical thresholds.
There is an urgent need for interdisciplinary study that crosses the boundaries
between intimately interwoven natural and social systems.
Our MA/MSc Environmental Governance addresses this by focusing on the
analysis, conservation, protection and management of natural resources, and the
institutions and policies that shape human actions.
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MSc Environmental Resource Management
Natural resources and people are inextricably linked. Much of what we
currently value about the environment exists because of the positive actions of
human managers. Equally, most of what we have lost is because of people and
their institutions.
MSc Environmental Resource Management combines our international standing in
the natural and social sciences with Writtle College’s leading expertise in
land-based, countryside and amenity industries. One day’s tuition per week
will be at Writtle College in Chelmsford.
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MSc Tropical Marine Biology
This course delivers advanced marine biology theory and
enables you to develop a comprehensive range of practical and research skills.
We capitalise on the breadth of research carried out in marine biology in our
School and give you the chance to engage with our current research activities,
both in the UK and abroad.
Study coral reef conservation in Indonesia
As a student on this course, you will have the opportunity to attend our Tropical Marine Resources module. You will spend three weeks in the remote Wakatobi Marine National
Park, Sulawessi, Eastern Indonesia which is located at the centre of the mega-biodiversity hotspot known as the coral triangle. The site is perfectly located to study the conservation
and management of coral reef systems.
You will receive formal lectures, supported by in-water practicals where you will be given underwater headsets and receive lectures whilst diving. This novel experience
provides you with an insight into the biology and ecology of tropical reef systems through the eyes of an active research staff member. You will also visit local villages,
interview different stakeholders and have the opportunity to discuss aspects of coral reef conservation with individuals from different sectors of Indonesian society.
This course will finish with an extended research project that can be either diving or land-based.
If you learn to dive you will be taught to the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) Open Water standard. All
diving students are provided with advanced research diving skills as a PADI speciality course.
This course is subsidised up to 50 per cent by our University, but students will need to contribute to the cost of travel.
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MSc Molecular Medicine
Molecular medicine is a new and rapidly evolving discipline which uses the modern life sciences
and their methods to study the molecular basis of disease and the use of therapeutic influences to correct
pathological alterations. Our overall focus is to equip you with a broad and up-to-date understanding of the
molecular and genetic factors that underline human disorders.
Our popular MSc Molecular Medicine gives you the necessary knowledge and skills to compete in the international
marketplace and the experience of producing a 12-week research project.
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MSc Cardiac Rehabilitation
Our MSc Cardiac Rehabilitation focuses on enabling you to provide
evidence-based physical activity advice and to manage intervention programmes
for patients at risk of, or suffering from, a variety of cardiovascular
disorders. This is an interdisciplinary course offering you an academic
qualification with a clear vocational target.
You can also apply for the Cardiac Rehabilitation Bursary if you plan to study this course.
Marine Biology
Our previously advertised MSc Marine Biology has been replaced by our exciting new course MSc Tropical Marine Biology.
Support if English is not your first language
If you don't meet the postgraduate entry requirements to study a Masters with us, our International Academy offers a
pre-Masters course with extra language and subject support that can assist your entry to a research course.
Coral Reef Research Unit
We conduct research within coral reef biodiversity and work with international organisations
such as the Indonesian Institute of Science, the Honduras Coral Reef Foundation and the Suez Canal University in Egypt. Students also attend
field trips in Indonesia.
Our research network
We have a range of Centres, units and groups involved in a variety of specialist areas. These networks
enable us to produce leading research informing areas ranging from the development of new medical treatments, research technologies, environmental policies and more.
PG funding
We offer scholarships and bursaries to support talented postgraduates, ranging from
research council studentships and University of Essex scholarships to awards
funded by charities and other external organisations.
How to apply
Find out more about how to apply for one of our courses. We can provide
help and advice, and guide you through the application process.