MSc Marine Systems and Policies

Postgraduate entry requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications: Prospective postgraduate applicants to the University of Edinburgh are typically required to have achieved a minimum academic qualification of approximately 60%, based on their previous academic achievements and qualifications.  

2. English Language Proficiency:  

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): Minimum overall score of 7.0, with at least 6.0 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Minimum score of 100 on the internet-based test (iBT), with at least 20 in each component (Reading, Listening, Speaking, Writing).

   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): Minimum overall score of 70, with at least 59 in each component (Listening, Reading, Speaking, Writing).

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

Work experience: Some postgraduate courses may require relevant work experience in the field.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

The University of Edinburgh offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities specifically designed to support international students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, and research programs. These scholarships aim to promote diversity, academic excellence, and global engagement. 

Global Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh offers Global Scholarships to outstanding international undergraduate students. These scholarships provide financial assistance towards tuition fees and living expenses, enabling talented students from around the world to access quality education at Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships: International postgraduate students pursuing research-based programs (Ph.D., MSc by Research) can apply for Edinburgh Global Research Scholarships. These scholarships provide full or partial funding for tuition fees and living expenses during the research program.

School-specific Scholarships: Some academic schools and departments within the university offer scholarships targeting international students in specific disciplines or programs. These scholarships may be merit-based or need-based and vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts.

Commonwealth Scholarships: The University of Edinburgh participates in various Commonwealth scholarship schemes, providing opportunities for students from Commonwealth countries to study in the UK. These scholarships are funded by the UK government and other organizations.

External Funding Sources: International students are encouraged to explore external funding sources, such as government scholarships, private organizations, and international foundations, to support their studies at the University of Edinburgh.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may change from year to year.

Graduates of the MSc Marine Systems and Policies program at The University of Edinburgh are well-positioned for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the fields of marine science, policy, and management. With a solid foundation in interdisciplinary knowledge and practical skills, graduates are equipped to address complex challenges facing marine environments and contribute to sustainable marine governance and conservation efforts.  

1. Marine Policy Analyst: Graduates can pursue careers as marine policy analysts, working for government agencies, research institutions, or non-profit organizations. They analyze marine policies, regulations, and governance frameworks, assess their effectiveness, and develop policy recommendations to address marine conservation, fisheries management, marine spatial planning, and other marine issues. Their interdisciplinary background in marine science, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement enables them to bridge science and policy gaps and advocate for evidence-based decision-making.

2. Marine Conservation Officer: Graduates may work as marine conservation officers for environmental organizations, marine conservation NGOs, or marine protected area (MPA) management agencies. They develop and implement conservation initiatives, monitor marine ecosystems, and engage stakeholders in conservation efforts. Their understanding of marine ecology, ecosystem-based management principles, and policy frameworks equips them to design and manage marine conservation projects aimed at protecting biodiversity, habitats, and marine species.

3. Marine Resource Manager: Graduates can pursue careers as marine resource managers, responsible for managing marine resources sustainably while balancing economic, social, and environmental objectives. They may work for government agencies, fisheries management organizations, or coastal zone management authorities, overseeing fisheries management plans, marine protected areas, and integrated coastal management initiatives. Their expertise in marine science, policy analysis, and stakeholder engagement enables them to develop and implement strategies for sustainable marine resource use and conservation.

4. Environmental Consultant: Graduates with a focus on marine systems and policies can work as environmental consultants for consulting firms, engineering companies, or environmental NGOs. They provide expertise on marine environmental impact assessments, marine spatial planning, and regulatory compliance for marine development projects such as offshore wind farms, coastal infrastructure projects, or marine aquaculture facilities. Their interdisciplinary background in marine science, policy analysis, and project management qualifies them to assess environmental risks and develop mitigation measures to minimize negative impacts on marine ecosystems.

5. Marine Science Researcher: Graduates interested in research can pursue careers as marine science researchers in academic institutions, research organizations, or marine science laboratories. They conduct research on various aspects of marine systems, including biodiversity conservation, marine pollution, ocean acidification, and climate change impacts on marine ecosystems. Their advanced research skills, coupled with their interdisciplinary understanding of marine systems and policies, enable them to contribute to scientific advancements and inform evidence-based marine management and conservation practices.

6. International Development Specialist: Graduates may work as international development specialists focusing on marine issues for international organizations, donor agencies, or non-governmental organizations (NGOs). They design and implement marine conservation and development projects in collaboration with governments, local communities, and other stakeholders in developing countries. Their expertise in marine science, policy analysis, and project management enables them to address global marine challenges, promote sustainable development, and build capacity for marine governance and conservation in diverse cultural and socio-economic contexts.