Geography with Ocean Science

Geography with ocean science combines the breadth of geographical inquiry with specialist knowledge of the marine environment and the extraordinary diversity of life within it. Geography examines the physical processes and human activities that shape our planet's landscapes, ecosystems, and communities, developing both quantitative and qualitative skills and engaging with some of the most pressing questions of the present, from climate change and environmental degradation to urbanisation and global inequality. Ocean science adds depth in the specific domain of the marine environment, exploring marine biodiversity, how species are classified and studied, how marine ecosystems function, and how processes such as primary production and food webs shape oceanic life.

At the University of Plymouth, this three-year full-time programme is offered by a university with a long-standing and distinctive reputation in marine and ocean sciences. You will study the diversity and ecology of marine life alongside the broader geographical sciences, developing field skills, laboratory skills, and the capacity to integrate physical and biological understanding of complex environmental systems. The programme includes a foundation year that provides a supported entry route into a demanding scientific curriculum, a sandwich year, a year abroad, and work placement, giving you professional and international experience across the full programme.

Graduates from geography with ocean science programmes work in marine conservation, environmental consultancy, oceanographic research, fisheries management, coastal planning, and international environmental organisations. The combination of geographical analytical skills and specialist marine knowledge is valued across the environmental and marine science sectors. Further study at postgraduate level in marine science, oceanography, physical geography, or environmental management is available for those who wish to specialise further.