BSc Marine SciencesAdd to shortlist

Programme profile

Seas and oceans are being used more and more intensively. Consider, for example, food supply, mineral extraction, transport, wind energy and tourism. In addition, for example, the warming of the sea water, overfishing, pollution and rising sea levels are causing large-scale ecological and social shifts. This leads to important challenges and developments in the marine domain.

During this programme, you immerse yourself in both natural sciences and social sciences subjects in order to gain a good understanding of the complexity of the marine system. The focus is on nature, food and society. For example, you study the causes and consequences of temperature changes or pollution or how the sea can contribute to a sustainable food supply. In addition, during the course you will develop the knowledge and skills to bridge conflicting interests and to contribute to innovative, sustainable solutions

Programme content

Year 1
The first year focuses on understanding and analyzing marine systems worldwide. You will take courses on (marine) ecology, politics and governance, global water systems & climate change and marine life, but you will also learn the basics of conducting interdisciplinary research. Together with fellow students you carry out a field project in the Wadden Sea and North Sea, so that you integrate the knowledge of the first-year courses. You will also go on a study trip to France.

Year 2
The second year focuses on solutions to complex marine problems and challenges. You will take courses on marine food systems, marine economics and law, global connections, currents and cycles, geo-information science and data science. The year ends with an integral project on the evaluation and design of nature-based solutions for Bangladesh, Kenya, Vietnam and Curaçao. You work together with real stakeholders.

Year 3
The third year starts with a free choice semester, in which you can choose a minor, participate in an international exchange, or follow your own selection of electives. You will take courses on modeling and aquaculture and fisheries. The last part of the third year focuses on bringing together everything you have learned so far in a third integral project. During this project you learn to quantitatively assess the effects of nature-based solutions and you conduct individual graduation research.

Entry Requirements