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​INTRODUCTION TO EUROPEAN MASTERS IN WATER AND COASTAL MANAGEMENT

The migration of people to the coast to live, work and for recreation is placing this unique environment under increasing threat, resulting in degradation and loss of the resources we value so highly. There is a growing challenge to ensure sustainable use of the coastal environment into the future. In the EU this is reflected by an ever-growing body of policy and legislation such as the strategy for Integrated Coastal Zone Management and the Water Framework Directive.
 
coastal sceneTo facilitate this management of coastal systems there is a need for highly trained professionals with a clear understanding of the issues and the capacity to produce solutions. The European Masters in Water and Coastal Management programme is designed to meet these needs. Graduates from this degree will have an excellent grounding in the environmental and water sciences, allied with a knowledge of the policy and regulatory issues, which they will be able to use to enable sustainable management of the coastal environment.
 
This degree is run jointly with our partner universities in Europe; Algarve in Portugal and Cadiz in Spain. It is recognised by the European Union as part of its ERASMUS MUNDUS programme that seeks to enhance quality in higher education. It is taught by experts from a network of around 20 European universities and covers science, policy and socio-economic aspects of coastal management. Where students attend may vary from year to year but all must attend at least two institutions in different European countries.
 

The general pattern of the programme is as follows:

  • You will take taught modules in Plymouth between September and January.
  • For the second term you will study at the University of Cadiz in Spain and take modules led by experts from around Europe.
  • You will return to Plymouth for your research dissertation between June and March the following year.
  • There are opportunities to travel to a worldwide partner university, outside Europe, for a three-month study period.
  • There is funding available for European students through the Erasmus scheme to support travel and subsistence in Europe.

​WHY STUDY EUROPEAN MASTERS IN WATER AND COASTAL MANAGEMENT?tranquil water scene

  • This programme will help you to develop a wide range of attributes sought after by employers including practical lab and field techniques, written and oral communication and problem-solving skills.
  • You will broaden your knowledge of the water and coastal environments, considering natural, social and economic sciences in the identification of management options.
  • You will gain experience of living and studying overseas, and will have opportunities to learn a new language as well as gain insight of coastal issues affecting Europe and elsewhere.

key features

  • All candidates must study in at least two European institutions
  • Modules taught by subject experts from across Europe
  • All teaching and assessment in English
  • Funding available to support study abroad for European, including UK, students

​programme leader

Dr Gillian Glegg is an Associate Professor within the Marine Institute at Plymouth University and is a member of the Centre for Marine and Coastal Policy Research. Her research and teaching focuses on marine pollution management and control and wider coastal zone management. She is involved in a range of UK and European research initiatives.

what our students say

The video below illustrates one student's experience of Plymouth (student of the Joint European Masters in Water and Coastal Management programme).