MSc Coastal Engineering

• Programme overview

• Study the theory of waves, tides, surges and modern techniques in coastal data collection and analysis, including GIS and remote sensing. You also study core topics in coastal and port engineering, gain research skills, are introduced to numerical modelling techniques and obtain hands-on experience of using state-of-the-art software tools. 
  Towards the end of the programme, you have the opportunity to undertake a substantial research project focused on an aspect of coastal engineering, supervised by academic staff actively researching this field.

  Core modules

  COUE506
  Port and Harbour Engineering 20 credits

  Ports and harbours play a crucial role in supporting our economy and daily life. This module examines the key environmental loadings, operational requirements, design solutions and port layouts. The work spans applications from international container ports to local marinas. The module makes use of our unique COAST laboratories, and site visits to understand their design.

  50% Coursework

  50% Examinations

  COUE508
  Advanced Coastal Engineering Modelling 20 credits

  This hands-on module introduces you to the cutting-edge modelling techniques and software tools used by today’s coastal and offshore engineers. You will learn how to simulate waves, currents, and sediment transport—and how to assess the real-world impact of engineering designs on the coastal and offshore environments.

  100% Coursework

  COUE510
  Coastal and Offshore Engineering

  How are coastal communities protected from the impacts of flooding, erosion and climate change? In this module you will learn about the role of the coastal engineer. From an exploration of water wave theory through to your own breakwater design your skills and knowledge are developed through examples and classroom activities. The module includes a visit to our COAST research lab and a coastal structures boat trip.

  MAR513Z
  Research Skills and Methods

  This module aims to equip students with the practical skills and contextual framework for conducting high quality research. Emphasis is placed on workshop opportunities to acquire and practice research planning, analysis, communication, writing and oral presentation skills.

  PROJ517
  MSc Dissertation 60 credits

  This module enables students to undertake an independent research project, applying the knowledge and skills developed throughout their MSc studies. Under academic supervision, students will apply appropriate methodologies, carry out in-depth analysis, and present their findings in a well-structured dissertation that demonstrates critical thinking, technical ability, and academic rigour.

  100% Coursework

  PRCE514
  Sustainable Engineering Scheme Design 20 credits

  This module immerses learners in a real-world interdisciplinary design project, tackling interconnected challenges in Civil and Coastal Engineering. Working in managed teams, students will refine sustainable solutions and present progress in simulated design meetings. The project spans the full lifecycle from concept to construction, equipping students with collaborative problem-solving skills.

  100% Coursework

  Optional modules

  MAR518
  Remote Sensing and GIS 20 credits

  This module introduces the principles of geographical information systems and remote sensing of marine, polar and coastal environments. Field data will be acquired using GPS and radiometric instrumentation. Emphasis is placed on the critical evaluation of remote sensing data and analysis tools in varied scenarios and on developing practical computing skills.

  100% Coursework

  GEES506
  Climate Change: Science and Policy 20 credits

  This module explores the science and policy of climatic change, including lessons from the past and the relevance of past climates to the global warming debate. We question climate change detection and attribution, feedbacks and uncertainty in climate change. We explore political actions through international political agreements and national policies and adaptation strategies and management of change in the UK

  50% Coursework

  50% Practicals

  MAR541
  Mechanics of Offshore Renewable Energy Systems 20 credits

  Discover how offshore renewable energy systems work in this module. You'll explore the mechanics behind wave, tidal, and offshore wind energy converters and investigate the engineering challenges they face. Develop practical skills through modelling and simulation using industry-standard software, and test designs in the cutting-edge COAST laboratory for real-world insight.

  50% Coursework

  50% Examinations

MSc Coastal Engineering Programme Specification_2370