Coastal & Marine Environments - Physical Processes Policy & Practice

Course Overview

The MSc in Coastal and Marine Environments is directed at graduates from Geography, Natural Sciences and other related disciplines in the social and natural sciences, and at professionals in the field who are interested in furthering their knowledge of the field. Coastal and marine environments are critical to local and national economies, support diverse habitats and communities, and provide a suite of ecosystem services. This field-intensive postgraduate programme examines emerging discourses surrounding the long-term health, use, and management of coastal and marine systems.



Through lectures, workshops, ship time, field work, and independent research, MSc students are challenged to:

• Develop competencies in principal biogeochemical processes and ocean circulation patterns, including the role of climate, which shape our coasts and marine environments; • Gain experience in methodologies and data collection techniques through field-based research to describe coastal and marine systems as well as document their change over time;

• Critically analyse how coastal and marine systems function and are used by communities and economic sectors;

• Evaluate plans and policies that address the complex relationships between coastal and marine environments and communities;

• Assess how well policies and legislation work to ensure long-term ecosystem sustainability and mitigate negative impacts on coastal communities and economic sectors.



Programme Structure

Coastal and Marine Environments: Physical Processes, Policy and Practice is a full-time postgraduate MSc programme delivered over 3 semesters (12 months). It is directed at graduates from Geography, Natural Sciences and other related disciplines in the social and natural sciences, and at professionals in the field who are interested in furthering their knowledge of coastal and marine environments. A part-time option is available for mid-career EU residents with professional backgrounds and training.



Who’s Suited to This Course

The MSc is primarily directed at graduates from Geography, related Natural, Environmental, and Social Sciences, and professionals in the field interested in advancing their knowledge and skills. A strong interest in marine and coastal issues, processes, and policies that guide their use by stakeholders and communities is essential. The MSc is field-based, so interest in primary research and fieldwork is beneficial.

Modules (all 10 ECTS unless otherwise stated)

• Research Methods and Mapping (Dr Aaron Potito).

• Coastal Processes and Landforms (Dr. Eugene Farrell).

• Reconstructing Marine Environments (Dr Audrey Morley).

• Biodiversity and Coastal Change (Dr Terry Morley).

• Dynamics of Climate Change (Dr Gordon Bromley).

• Marine Spatial Planning and Policy (Dr Liam M. Carr).

• Dissertation (Independent Research Project; Advisor selected for project).



Curriculum Information

Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).

Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.



Please see Course Web Page above for module details.

Level 8 degree, Second Class Honours or equivalent, with Second Class Honours Grade 1 or equivalent in a relevant field of study. Selection is based on candidates’ academic record at undergraduate level, statement of intent and academic letters of recommendation.

Applications must be completed online at: https://nuigalway.elluciancrmrecruit.com/Apply/Account/Login.



An application requires a registration fee of €35. You will be asked to upload proof of identification, academic transcripts, a personal statement, an academic reference and documentation to fulfil the English requirement (where English is not your first language).

1 year full-time

2 years part-time

Next start date: September 2025

Career Opportunities

With coastal and marine resources increasingly promoted as being central to revitalising the Irish economy, the coming years will require well-informed and educated leaders who understand the complexities of the interaction between the economy and health of these environments. This should present graduates of this new course with opportunities across various fields (coastal and marine science, environment, politics, planning, NGOs, local and regional agencies, research agencies, research laboratories and programmes, etc.). The placement element of the programme will also offer practical work experience that will enhance career prospects.