Applied Marine Science Masters Degree

The programme involves coursework, research, field trips to explore the marine, geological, climatic and biological diversity around Cape Town, and a student-organized, weekly seminar that deals with the scientific, engineering, economic and ethical aspects of global warming and related issues. The field trips and outings allow the students to work together in groups, and also to network with possible employers and researchers/industry/NGOs etc. in the arenas of marine sciences and global change. Students often have opportunities to participate in fisheries, oceanographic or Antarctic research ship cruises.  Students also have the opportunity to undertake a scientific diving course.

Course themes covered in this programme are:

• BIO3002F Marine Ecology: The course includes an introduction to the South African Marine Environment, biological oceanography, plankton ecology, benthic ecology, mariculture, fisheries biology (with special attention to major South African fisheries), sandy beach ecology, estuarine ecology and rocky shore ecology. Special topics are covered in seminars. In addition to formal lectures, tutorials and set practicals, students are required to undertake field work and a research project.

• SEA3003F Marine Systems: The physical and dynamical basis of large-scale processes in the ocean. An overview of the ocean-atmosphere environment. Fundamental forces and balances, a framework for geophysical dynamics and circulation studies. Case studies of physical processes in practical situations