Applied Marine Science University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI)

Overview

There’s never been a more vital time to study Marine Science. Our oceans face urgent challenges: climate change, biodiversity loss, and the unsustainable use of precious resources. Let us equip you with the knowledge and skills to tackle these issues head-on via the MSci Applied Marine Science at University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI), at the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS). 

You’ll study in an inspiring coastal setting near Oban, nestled between a 13th-century castle and a cutting-edge marine science park. Our students benefit from exceptional staff support, access to world-class research facilities, and you’ll enjoy a year-long integrated work placement, preparing you for a career as a leader, researcher, or innovator in the marine sector.

The information on this course page is for the 2027/28 academic year, starting in September 2027. January 2027 starts are only available if 'I want to start in JAN 2027' appears in the 'Apply' section below.

Course code: F714

Study mode: Full time

Course type: MSci

International: Available to study on-campus

Study at: SAMS

Start in: September

Learning mode: On campus (in person), Placement, Off campus

Duration: Full time: 5 years

How: Timetabled class

There’s never been a more vital time to study Marine Science. Our oceans face urgent challenges: climate change, biodiversity loss, and the unsustainable use of precious resources. Let us equip you with the knowledge and skills to tackle these issues head-on via our MSci Applied Marine Science, at the Scottish Association for Marine Science (SAMS).

This integrated master's programme offers a 5-year, SCQF level 7-11 course, blending academic excellence with hands-on experience. Designed by active researchers at the UK’s oldest oceanographic institute, you will gain a holistic understanding of marine biology, chemistry, physics, and geology, from Scottish sea lochs to tropical reefs and polar oceans.

You’ll study in an inspiring coastal setting near Oban, nestled between a 13th-century castle and a cutting-edge marine science park. Our students benefit from exceptional staff support, access to world-class research facilities, and you’ll enjoy a year-long integrated work placement, preparing you for a career as a leader, researcher, or innovator in the marine sector.

If you're interested in graduating in Marine Science while also pursuing specialist pathways in either Arctic Studies, Marine Biology, or Oceanography and Robotics, or taking part in an international exchange, you may wish to explore our BSc (Hons) Marine Science.

• Study at Scotland’s leading independent marine research institute, founded in 1884 by Sir John Murray, the father of oceanography
• Enjoy a year-long work placement with expert support to apply your learning in the real world
• Train with globally recognised researchers in a stunning coastal location with diverse marine habitats
• Access state-of-the-art facilities including a research vessel, specialist labs, and aquaria
• Join a highly satisfied student community: 82% satisfaction in 2025 (100% in 2020–2022, NSS)
• For more details please visit the SAMS website

• 4 Scottish Highers at grade AABB or above
• 3 A levels at grade BBC or above
• These must include two science subjects*
• You must also have English and Maths at National 5, Standard Grade credit, or GCSE, or their equivalents
• International students whose first language is not English must also meet relevant language competency standards
• Applicants with other qualifications or experience will be considered on an individual basis
• Advanced entry to year two may be possible with an HNC Applied Sciences or HNC Bioscience, with a minimum of A in the graded unit

*Recommended science subjects (Highers/A levels):

• Applications of Mathematics
• Biology
• Chemistry
• Cruinn-eolas
• Computing science
• Design and Manufacture
• Engineering Science
• Environmental Science
• Geography
• Geology
• Gniomhachas Matamataigs
• Human Biology
• Matamataig
• Mathematics
• Physics

• Full-time

• You will study in-person, on campus via face-to-face lectures, tutorials and practical field and laboratory work
• You will have access to state-of-the-art lab facilities, and expert advice from SAMS UHI marine researchers
• You will undertake a mandatory 9-12 month work placement based in the UK in your MSci year
• You will also take part in a mandatory in-person induction at SAMS in September of your first year
• You may have the opportunity to undertake optional expeditions to the Red Sea (Egypt) or Isle of Arran (Scotland)

• Full-time: 5 years @ 40 hours per week

The number of hours per week indicates the total number of hours you should dedicate to the course, which includes time spent on online material as well as individual study and research.

• September

For information on costs of this course please contact the campus where you wish to study.

UHI has a number of scholarships, bursaries, awards, and discretionary fund opportunities available to new and current students. Please use the A-Z of funds or use the filter to see which ones may be relevant to you. All students are welcome to apply.

Further information on funding your studies is also available, please see the attached link or contact the relevant UHI partner.

You are expected to purchase a lab coat either from the university or from an alternative supplier (lab coats cost approximately £20). As the course contains substantial elements of fieldwork, waterproof clothing may also be required.

Participation in extra-curricular expeditions such as the Red Sea or Isle of Arran field courses will be an additional cost which you will be responsible for.

Career

Once you have successfully completed this course, you might like to consider careers in:

• Academia/education
• Aquaculture or fisheries industries
• Data science
• Environmental assessment and consultancy
• Environmental education
• Environmental management
• Marine biotechnology
• Marine conservation
• Marine technology
• Renewable energy sector
• Research
• Science journalism
• Surveying