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MSc in Coastal Ecology

Type
Master (ISCED 2011 level 7)
Language

English

Duration 4 semesters
Entry level Bachelor
Cost no tuition fees

If you want to learn more about the human footprint on coastal ecosystems, this is the master’s programme for you. It is also perfect for those who wish to know more about conservation Science, ecosystem services and the potential for sustainable food production in coastal areas. The programme offers the opportunity to work with field based or experimental projects that will give you a good introduction to scientific research.

Through its Centre for Coastal Research, the University of Agder cooperates with world-leading environments, where GRID-Arendal, the Norwegian Institute of Marine Research (IMR), the Norwegian Institute for Water Research (NIVA), the University of Oslo, as well as business partners from Southern Norway all contribute with education and guidance in this master’s programme. Through these partnerships, the University of Agder can offer stimulating research topics and student projects. Meanwhile, you will have a chance to build a network among well-established specialists.

Course structure:

Fall:

  • Fisheries Oceanography (10 ECTS)
  • Applied Fish Ecology (5 ECTS)
  • Special Syllabus (5 ECTS)
  • Statistics in Ecological Studies (5 ECTS)
  • Pollution of Coastal and Marine Ecosystems (5 ECTS)

Spring:

  • Applied Molecular Biology (5 ECTS)
  • Mariculture and the Environment (10 ECTS)
  • Coastal Ecology and Global Change in the Antropocene (10 ECTS) 
  • Scientific Writing and Communication (5 ECTS)

Fall/Spring:

  • Master project/ thesis 60 ECTS
Structural components
Practical/Field work

Application procedure

There are different requirements depending on which country you are from, and your educational background. 

Find all the necessary information regarding the application process in the country specific webpages. If you cannot find your country, please find the general information for bachelor's programmes here or for master's programmes here

Please read the information on this page if you have a renewable or permanent residence permit to Norway.

Learning outcomes

A master’s degree in Coastal Ecology will give you a broad understanding of the terminologies and methodologies that are used in coastal ecological studies. You will gain a good general view of how anthropogenic environmental impacts are affecting coastal ecosystems’ structure and function, and you will learn how national coastal zones are managed. You will be able to participate in exciting research projects and, through those projects, you will gain unique expertise that is not offered at other places of study.

  • Central questions in the programme:
  • What characterises a healthy coastal environment?
  • What effects do climate change have on coastal nature?
  • How are coastal resources affected by nutrients, pollutants and other chemicals?
  • How can our use of coastal resources reach a sustainable state?
  • How can international conventions contribute to responsible management of the coastal zone?

The courses offered in the programme are developed and taught by international specialists affiliated to UIA’s Centre for Coastal Research, and by professionals in the aquaculture industry. This ensures up-to-date-, relevant education for a career in research, aquaculture or management.

Prerequisites

Admission requirements

See supplementary regulations regarding admission.

Application period

  • Non EU/EEA international applicants: From 1 November till 1 December.
  • EU/EEA applicants: From 1 February till 1 March.
  • Nordic citizens and applicants with a permanent or renewable residence permit in Norway: From 1 February till 1 March.

ISCED Categories

Ecology