Expand your subject knowledge while carrying out a major research project in the area of seafloor exploration and surveying on this MRes Marine Geology and Geophysics: Exploration degree. You’ll be based at National Oceanography Centre Southampton (NOCS), where you’ll access the latest facilities and the research-led teaching of our academic experts. You’ll graduate in the perfect position to continue your studies at PhD level or start a career in a wide range of sectors.

A master of research (MRes) degree differs from a standard MSc in the balance between teaching and research. As an MRes student you’ll spend more time on your research project and less on the taught part of your course. 

On this flexible UK master's course, you’ll gain a broad overview of marine geology and geophysics, while gaining the specialist skills and knowledge to carry out a research project in the area of seafloor exploration and surveying.

You'll study a combination of modules that are common to all our marine geology and geophysics pathways and modules that are unique to the exploration pathway.

Your specialist topics will cover areas such as:

• high resolution marine geophysics
• gathering, processing and interpreting seabed data
• using a range of datasets to solve geological problems
• the use and understanding of seismic reflection data
• the theory and practice of electromagnetic exploration methods

Teaching takes up one-third of the year. The modules you’ll take depend on your choice of research topic. 

You’ll spend the rest of the year working on your research project, and writing up your findings in a dissertation.

With this degree you’ll be in a great position to continue your research at PhD level or start a career in a wide range of sectors. 

Areas where your knowledge and skills will be in demand include: 

• gas and oil extraction 
• engineering services 
• environmental consultancy