UCAS code F700
Our Ocean and Climate Science programme takes an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the marine environment. With fieldwork opportunities embedded in each year of the course and our strong links to the National Oceanography Centre, Liverpool is an excellent place to study Ocean and Climate Science.
The ocean plays a vital role in regulating Earth’s climate by controlling the movement of heat and carbon around the planet. Understanding these processes is essential for addressing global challenges such as climate change, sea-level rise, and ecosystem change. The Ocean and Climate Science BSc at Liverpool takes a multidisciplinary approach, combining physical, chemical and biological perspectives to explore how the ocean and climate system interact.
You will develop a strong understanding of ocean circulation, climate processes, marine ecosystems and biogeochemical cycles, supported by practical training in quantitative and data-driven approaches to marine science. Learning takes place through lectures, laboratory work, computer-based analysis and field activities, including opportunities for sea-based practical experience and an independent research project in your final year.
Liverpool offers a unique environment for studying ocean science. The programme benefits from close links with scientists at the National Oceanography Centre Liverpool, who contribute guest lectures. The degree is accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST), supporting pathways into careers in marine science, environmental consultancy, policy and research.
We consider applications from prospective disabled students on the same basis as all other students, and reasonable adjustments will be considered to address barriers to access.
Our degree is one of only a handful in the UK to be accredited by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMAREST), opening up opportunities for students and graduates of our programmes.
IMarEST - The Institute of Maring Engineering, Science and Techonology - is the international professional body for all marine professionals.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Ocean and Climate Science BSc (Hons), Marine Biology BSc (Hons) and Marine Biology and Oceanography BSc (Hons) share a common first year, assuming no prior marine science background. First-year modules introduce key concepts in marine biology, ocean science, and climate systems while developing essential scientific and transferable skills. Fieldwork opportunities provide hands-on experience of marine and ocean environments. The common and inclusive first year allows flexibility to transfer between programmes at the end of year one.
We’ll provide module details shortly.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we are currently reviewing all of our programmes. This may include refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. The course content currently shown on this page reflects the programme as it is running in September 2026. This page will be updated for students beginning in September 2027 by 1 September 2026 at the latest.
Year two develops practical, analytical, and numerical skills through fieldwork, laboratory training, and applied oceanography. Alongside this, students deepen their understanding of topics such as the ocean carbon cycle and environmental pressures on marine systems. Students also gain experience using industry-standard software and take part in a residential field course, providing valuable hands-on experience. Further optional modules are available.
We’ll provide module details shortly.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we are currently reviewing all of our programmes. This may include refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. The course content currently shown on this page reflects the programme as it is running in September 2026. This page will be updated for students beginning in September 2027 by 1 September 2026 at the latest.
Year three emphasises research and critical analysis through an independent research project and tutorials exploring current topics in marine biology and ocean and climate science, while also developing employability skills and supporting continuing professional development. Students are also introduced to ocean dynamics and sea level and to applied data analysis, building the analytical and scientific expertise needed for careers in marine science, environmental management, or further study. Further optional modules are available.
We’ll provide module details shortly.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change. As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we are currently reviewing all of our programmes. This may include refining study pathways, strengthening links with employers, integrating generative AI, developing students’ research skills, and enhancing alignment with our research strengths. The course content currently shown on this page reflects the programme as it is running in September 2026. This page will be updated for students beginning in September 2027 by 1 September 2026 at the latest.
Teaching takes place primarily on campus through a combination of lectures, tutorials, workshops, laboratory classes, computer practicals, field classes, group projects and supervised independent work. Laboratory and field-based learning are an important part of the programme, with field activities taking place in a range of environments, including on board a research ship.
You will typically receive around 15 hours of timetabled teaching per week, studying four modules per semester. A typical module may include two one-hour lectures each week alongside laboratory, field or computer-based practical sessions. In addition to scheduled teaching, you will spend time in independent study, including reading, preparation for classes, coursework and revision.
Tutorials are a key part of the programme, with small groups of around 5–7 students meeting regularly with an academic member of staff. These sessions support your academic development and provide opportunities to discuss study skills, careers, current research and topical issues in marine science.
As you progress through the degree, you will increasingly engage with current research, develop critical thinking skills and undertake more independent study. In year three, you will complete an independent research project, supervised by a member of academic staff, which may involve fieldwork, laboratory work or data analysis.
We consider applications from prospective students with disabilities on the same basis as all other applicants, and reasonable adjustments will be considered to ensure equitable access to teaching and field activities.
Assessment matches the learning objectives for each module and may take the form of written exams, coursework submissions in the form of essays, scientific papers, briefing notes or lab notebooks, oral and poster presentations and contributions to group projects. Coursework is designed around the types of problems encountered and the skills needed in commercial, research and public sector jobs. Emphasis is placed on good laboratory practice and maintaining useful lab notebooks in the context of scientific integrity and scientific data management.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
Studying with us means you can tailor your degree to suit you. Here's what is available on this course.
University of Liverpool students can choose from an exciting range of study placements at partner universities worldwide. Choose to spend a year at XJTLU in China or a year or semester at an institution of your choice.
Immerse yourself in Chinese culture on an optional additional year at Xi'an Jiaotong Liverpool University in stunning Suzhou.
Broaden your world by spending an additional year of study at a partner university abroad following your second year of study.
Take a semester of your second year of study at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Spend a summer abroad on a study placement or research project at one of our worldwide partner institutions.
Year in industry placements give you an in-depth workplace experience where you can develop your skills and apply your learning.
You don't need to decide now - you can choose to add a year in industry after you've begun your degree.
To spend a year in industry, you'll need to secure a placement with an organisation. If you're unable to find a placement, you'll continue with the standard version of the course without a year in industry.
Every student at The University of Liverpool can study a language as part of, or alongside their degree. You can choose:
Teaching takes place in well-equipped lecture theatres and seminar rooms across the University campus, including in our award-winning Central Teaching Laboratory.
Your course will be delivered by staff from the Department of Earth, Ocean and Ecological Sciences, all of whom are actively involved in ocean research and who bring the results of their research into your lectures and laboratories. Our staff collaborate with scientists from the National Oceanography Centre, which has a research centre on the Liverpool campus.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
Want to find out more about student life?
Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
We produce highly employable ocean and climate scientists, trained in industry-relevant skills and modern equipment and software, who can apply their knowledge to a wide range of fields, including modelling, environmental consultancy and monitoring, aquaculture, pollution and further research.
Our graduates have a diverse range of careers in areas such as: environmental consultancy, administration, academia, the media, teaching, local and national government and international banking. Examples of recent graduate careers in the sector include: Environmental Data Analyst, Field Surveyor, Oceanographer, Consultant, European Marine Energy Centre, Marine Advisor at Natural England. Many choose to continue their studies at master’s or PhD level on topics such as the impact of benthic fishing on blue carbon, marine planning and upwelling dynamics around the Galapagos.
After completing this course, the employability options are extensive and include: