ObjectivesTo provide training in the core scientific, technical and interdisciplinary skills essential for aquatic resource management and research.
Entry requirementsDesigned for those seeking employment or research opportunities within the broad field of freshwater, estuarine and marine resources, and their sustainable development, conservation, regulation and management.
Academic titleMSc Aquatic Resource Management
Course descriptionProfessional/vocational links/accreditations
Extensive links with governmental and private sector organisations dealing with water management who provide placement (internship) opportunities and visiting lecturers. An external advisory board of senior water management personnel advises on curriculum development and delivery.
Programme description
- Twelve-week internship within water industry gives a headstart into employment.
- Unique mix of freshwater, estuarine and marine science and management.
- Close collaboration with outside organisations who are active in the aquatic management arena.
Taught jointly by the Department of Geography at King's College London and the University Marine Biological Station at Millport, Scotland, and with major input from the UK water industry, the MSc programme is able to draw on a unique mix of freshwater, estuarine and marine expertise. The programme supports students in developing the core scientific, technical and interdisciplinary skills required for working in key areas of aquatic resource management and research, whilst also emphasising transferable communication and interpersonal skills acquired from both individual and team activities. Throughout the programme, students develop an awareness of current and emerging environmental issues via a close interface with external organisations and scientists active in aquatic management and research.
The programme comprises five core taught modules covering: field techniques and monitoring; river management; aquatic chemistry and pollution; quantitative environmental analysis; freshwater, estuarine and marine resource management. Optional modules cover global aspects of water management; marine and freshwater fishery management and aquaculture; remote sensing and GIS; hydrological processes and ecotoxicology.
The taught component is followed by a 12-week external project placement (internship). This industrial project placement which runs from mid June, is a key element of the MSc programme, offering hands-on operational and research training. The MSc programme has acquired extensive links with a very wide range of agencies and organisations handling current aquatic resource management and research issues in the UK and overseas. This enables us, with careful counselling, to provide placements that match individual career aspirations and experience.
Programme format and assessment
The programme comprises five core taught modules covering: field techniques and monitoring; river management; aquatic chemistry and pollution; quantitative environmental analysis; freshwater, estuarine and marine resource management.
Optional modules cover global aspects of water management; hydrological processes and ecotoxicology. Lectures; small group seminars and workshops; computer and problem-based learning excercises; poster presentations; extensive field and laboratory work including five weeks at the University Marine Biological Station Millport, Scotland and one week in Shropshire.
Assessment 30 per cent exams, 35 per cent coursework and 35 per cent project placement report.