MSc Expedition and Marine Medicine
| Programme code | 7779 |
| Duration | 1 year |
| Course type | Full-time, Part-time route available |
| Study location | Plymouth |
This new programme has been developed for medics and healthcare professionals with an interest in advancing their clinical and non-technical skills in the fields of expedition, marine and diving medicine. Teaching on the programme places an emphasis on combining theoretical knowledge with situational, skills-based learning to build confidence and help develop effective leadership skills, when working in remote environments.
Careers with this subject
This programme can contribute to professional development for senior positions as a medical doctor or for any allied health professional. The course prepares you for clinical roles within the field of remote and expedition medicine across the globe, with organisations specialising in adventure tourism, humanitarian assistance and scientific expeditions. There is a strong leadership component which will stand you in good stead for all career pathways applicable to your chosen field.
Key features
- This programme brings together specialists in expedition and marine medicine, with experience of working across a broad range of remote and austere environments, from high mountains to deep seas.
- An array of dedicated modules has been developed with leaders in the fields of expedition and diving medicine training; Endeavour Medical and the Diving Diseases Research Centre (DDRC).
- Teaching on the programme places an emphasis on combining theoretical knowledge with practical learning to build confidence and help develop effective clinical and leadership skills when working in remote environments.
- Online and classroom-based teaching within the University is combined with practical sessions on local or international residential courses, delivered by the team at Endeavour medical.
- The course gives students the opportunity to work with subject specialists in developing a research dissertation project with an expedition or marine medicine focus.
- Further to being enrolled on core modules focusing on marine medicine, remote medicine and health care research, applicants also choose optional modules relating to expedition and diving medicine or modules from other postgraduate programmes including:
MSc Global Health ,MSc Healthcare Management, Leadership and Innovation (HMLI) , andMClinEd Clinical Education . - Designed for busy professionals, this programme is offered as a full time or part time course and welcomes applications from existing medics, healthcare professionals and healthcare science graduates.
Course details
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Year 1
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Core modules
CLE731DL
Research Design and Development 20 creditsThis module provides an introduction to the research design, development and knowledge transfer process. You will be supported in generating a research idea and developing it into a coherent and achievable research proposal for a Masters dissertation.
50% Coursework
50% Practicals
CLE732DL
Research Project Dissertation 40 creditsThis module is the dissertation associated with the Masters programmes (ClinEd, HMLI, GH , EMM) and is designed to enable students to produce a project dissertation under supervision, and to demonstrate project design, development, evaluation and synthesis skills.
100% Coursework
EMM710
Remote and Expedition MedicineThis module provides students with an opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of remote and expedition medicine and of the distinct environmental, physical and psychological factors associated with working as a remote clinical practitioner.
EMM712
Marine MedicineThis module provides students with an opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of marine medicine and of the distinct environmental, physical and psychological factors associated with working as a healthcare professional in marine environments.
Optional modules
CLE721
Research Methods in HealthcareThis module aims to provide the students with increased understanding and knowledge of the research methods and statistics, to enable them to critically evaluate, synthesise and reflect on research evidence, to practice. Students will be introduced to a wide range of quantitative and qualitative methods, primary and secondary research methods, equipping them with a basic understanding of the underlying principles of quantitative and qualitative research.
CLE721DL
Research Methods in Healthcare 20 creditsThis module aims to provide the students with increased understanding and knowledge of the research methods and statistics, to enable them to critically evaluate, synthesise and reflect on research evidence, to practice. Students will be introduced to a wide range of quantitative and qualitative methods, primary and secondary research methods, equipping them with a basic understanding of the underlying principles of quantitative and qualitative research.
100% Coursework
CLE722DL
Technology Enhanced Teaching and LearningThis is a completely online module and provides students with a broad overview of educational technologies and their associated pedagogical affordances. Participants will learn about a comprehensive range of educational technologies and will also critique their relevance to practice. Students are expected to engage with the online content and keep a reflective journal on the development process for the duration of the module.
CLE723
Design and Development of HealthCare EducationIn this module, we explore design and development of HealthCare Education in a range of settings. You will critically engage with the scholarly literature related to curriculum development, and plan a scheme of work related to your educator role.
CLE723DL
Design and Development of HealthCare Education 20 creditsIn this module, we explore design and development of HealthCare Education in a range of settings. You will critically engage with the scholarly literature related to curriculum development, and plan a scheme of work related to your educator role.
EMM711
Human Factors in Extreme EnvironmentsThis module provides students with an opportunity to develop a comprehensive understanding of how human factors relating to psychological processes and environmental factors can impact both positively and negatively on the provisions of effective healthcare in expedition and marine medicine. It will analyse the role of non-technical skills systems, from a broad range of disciplines, to encourage their utilisation in professional practice to reduce human error in challenging environments.
EMM713
Fundamentals of Diving PracticeThis module equips students with the foundations of knowledge and skills that underpin diving medicine. They will gain understanding of the characteristics of gases relevant to diving and the physiological principles of immersion and exposure to pressure. Students will learn how these principles translate into modern diving practice and the relevant technical, operational and legal framework of how this is practised safely, in a commercial and recreational settings.
EMM714
Fitness to DiveThis module provides the student with an understanding of the assessment of fitness to dive and the practical skills to be able to perform an assessment. The student will build on their knowledge from EMM713 relating to physics, physiology and diving techniques and apply this to common medical problems, in order to minimise risk, utilising case discussion and simulation.
EMM715
Diving AccidentsIn this module student will learn about the assessment and treatment of injured divers. The student will develop an in depth understanding of illnesses seen in divers and will develop the clinical skills required to assess a diver, including history taking and examination. Using case discussions and high-fidelity simulation students will become familiar with the management of diving injuries and the operation of a hyperbaric chamber.
GH711DL
Introduction to Global Health 20 creditsThis module will unpick the phrase Global Health and the key issues and philosophies within it. It will consider the scholarship of an emerging field through time and look to the future requirements for global health leadership.
100% Coursework
GH715DL
Health in Humanitarian Emergencies 20 creditsThis module explores the management models of healthcare provision in response to humanitarian emergencies, resulting from both natural and human-induced crises. By evaluating the history of the humanitarian movement and factors affecting the current delivery of national and international aid programmes, this modules aims to review potential strategies for implementing sustainable healthcare programmes in LMICs.
HML713
Leadership in Healthcare: Theory and PracticeLearners with be provided with a broad-based introduction to the field of health service leadership. Key leadership theories and trends will be explored along with how they relate to the real world. Concepts around quality, leadership to drive improvement and innovation will also be discussed. Finally, the importance of understanding and equipping ourselves in the context of leadership will be examined.
HML714
Management in Healthcare: Theory and PracticeLearners will acquire an increased understanding and knowledge of theories, tools and strategies for management in healthcare environments alongside an appreciation of their role within teams and complex systems. Learners will analyse, critique and reflect on real world scenarios to develop a confident and competent management approach to achieve personal and effectiveness in practice.
HML717
Quality Improvement and InnovationThis module aims to provide the students with increased understanding and knowledge of tools and theories for quality improvement and innovation, to enable them to critically evaluate, synthesise and reflect on the applicability of these to past, current, and future healthcare challenges. Students will develop confidence and competence to lead and manage quality improvement and innovation individually and collaboratively.
GH716DL
Primary and Public Health Care: Global Health Systems 20 creditsThis module will compare and contrast different types of health systems globally and apply a deep and systematic understanding of the key principles of primary health care and public health policy and practice for health systems strengthening, particularly for communities experiencing health inequalities. Students will critically analyse impacts of broad social determinants of health on human health and health inequalities in impoverished communities.
100% Coursework
The modules shown for this course or programme are those being studied by current students, or expected new modules. Modules are subject to change depending on year of entry.
Every postgraduate taught course has a detailed programme specification document describing the programme aims, the programme structure, the teaching and learning methods, the learning outcomes and the rules of assessment.
The following programme specification represents the latest programme structure and may be subject to change:
Entry requirements
This programme is applicable to healthcare professional graduates and clinicians who wish to advance their career in the fields of expedition and marine medicine. It is also suitable for intercalating medical students between years 4 and 5 of their undergraduate course.
A recognised first degree or equivalent will usually be required, with a minimum of an upper second / 2:1 class honours degree in a health professions related subject (eg. Medicine, Nursing, Paramedic Science, Dentistry, Allied Health Professionals etc).
Clinicians who achieved a lower grade from their first degree or without a degree but with appropriate experience may still be eligible to apply. Please contact the admissions or programme team for further information.
Fees, costs and funding
| Student | 2025-26 | 2026-27 |
|---|---|---|
| Home | £11,910 – £13,050* | £12,280 – £13,440* |
| International | £20,400 | £21,000 |
| Part time (Home) | £4,350 – £4,635 per 60 credit module** | £4,480 – £4,770 per 60 credit module** |
*Exact fee will range between these figures depending on module choice.
**2025/26 20 credit module fees set as:
£1,545 – EMM Badged module fee
£1,260 – Shared PMS module fee
£1,545 – EMM Badged module fee
£1,260 – Shared PMS module fee
**2026/27 20 credit module fees set as:
£1,590 – EMM Badged module fee
£1,300 – Shared PMS module fee
£1,590 – EMM Badged module fee
£1,300 – Shared PMS module fee
PLEASE NOTE:
The UK Government has announced that a levy on tuition fee income in the region of 6% of an international student’s tuition fees may be introduced. If implemented, the University reserves the right to increase your tuition fees accordingly. The Government has made it clear that it has not officially decided on its stance and it is possible that the eventual levy amount or arrangements may differ from the initial proposal. Therefore, the University reserves the right to adjust tuition fees in accordance with the Government’s final position on this levy.
We understand that clarity around tuition fees is important when planning your studies. Therefore, please note that the tuition fee shown on this page may change as a result of the introduction of a levy. We advise you to monitor this page regularly to stay informed of any updates to your tuition fees.
Additional costs
This course is delivered by the
Faculty of Health
and more details of any additional costs associated with the faculty's courses are listed on the following page:
Faculty of Health additional costs
.
How to apply
When to apply
Most of our taught programmes begin in September. Applications can usually be made throughout the year, and are considered until programmes are full.
Before you apply
Familiarise yourself with the information required to complete your application form. You will usually be required to supply:
- evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), with translations if not in English, to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- evidence of English language proficiency, if English is not your first language
- a personal statement of approximately 250-400 words about the reasons for your interest in the course and outlining the nature of previous and current related experience. You can write this into the online application form, or include it as a separate document
- your curriculum vitae or résumé, including details of relevant professional/voluntary experience, professional registration/s and visa status for overseas workers
- proof of sponsorship, if applicable.
If you require further information take a look at our
application guidance.
Disability Inclusion Services
If you have an impairment, health condition or disability, learn about the
additional support the University provides
.
International students
Support is also available to overseas students applying to the University from our International Office. Take a look at our
how to apply
information or email admissions@plymouth.ac.uk.
Submitting an application
Once you are happy that you have all of the information required you can apply using our online postgraduate application form (the blue 'Apply' icon on this page).
What happens after I apply?
You will normally receive a decision on your application within four weeks of us receiving your application. You may be asked to provide additional information; two academic/professional references, confirming your suitability for the course; or to take part in an interview (which in the case of overseas students may be by telephone or video conference) and you will be sent a decision by letter or email.
We aim to make the application procedure as simple and efficient as possible. Our Admissions and Course Enquiries team is on hand to offer help and can put you in touch with the appropriate faculty if you wish to discuss any programme in detail.
If you would like any further information please contact the Admissions and Course Enquiries team:
Telephone: +44 1752 585858
Email: admissions@plymouth.ac.uk
Admissions policy
More information and advice for applicants can be referenced in our admissions policy which can be found on the
student regulations, policies and procedures
page. Prospective students are advised to read the policy before making an application to the University.
Online Information Event
Wednesday 10 December 2025
5pm – 6pm
Join Programme Lead Matt Griggs to find out more about this new programme and have the opportunity to join in a Q&A session.
Overview of modules
The MSc programme comprises of 180 Higher Education Institution (HEI) credits at Level 7 and PgCert programmes comprise of 60 credits. Other than a 40 credit dissertation module, all modules are worth 20 credits.
The programme will be offering the following modules as either core or elective modules, depending on the pathway chosen.
- Remote and Expedition Medicine
- Human Factors in Extreme Environments
- Marine Medicine
- Fundamentals of Diving Practice
- Fitness to Dive
- Diving Accidents
- Introduction to Global Health
- Health in Humanitarian Emergencies
- Leadership in Global Health
- Research Methods in HealthCare
- Research Design and Development
- Design and Development of HealthCare Education
- Management in Healthcare: Theory and Practice
An adventurous future in clinical practice
This new programme has been developed for medics and healthcare professionals with an interest in advancing their clinical and non-technical skills in the fields of expedition and marine medicine.
Teaching on the programme places an emphasis on combining theoretical knowledge with situational, skills-based learning to build confidence and help develop effective leadership skills, when working in remote environments.
Designed for busy professionals, this course offers an expedition focus, as a full-time or part-time student. Embark on this exciting journey and lay the foundations for an adventurous future in clinical practice.
Pioneering education
The new Expedition and Marine Medicine programme builds upon a long history of remote medicine teaching within Peninsula Medical School and creates a link between the University’s existing specialities of health and marine sciences. The choice of pathways available offers a suite of dedicated level 7 modules, that incorporate classroom-based teaching and skills-based learning on local and international residential courses.
In the design of the new modules, we have joined forces with world-class leaders in the fields of diving and expedition medicine training; DDRC Healthcare and Endeavour Medical.
By working with DDRC Healthcare we are pleased to be able to offer the first dedicated PgCert Diving Medicine award in the country, and the first Expedition and Marine Medicine Masters with a Diving Medicine focus in the world.
Flexible learning options
The programme offers a variety of full-time and part-time pathways for applicants to choose from with an expedition or a diving medicine focus, or one combining both disciplines.
The full-time programme is completed within a year, whilst the PgCert and part-time courses provide learners with the opportunity to remain in salaried employment whilst completing their studies. Due to the practical nature of the modules, teaching is mostly carried out face-to-face, in combination with an element of online learning.
Individual modules will also be offered as stand-alone continuous professional development courses.
An outstanding level of teaching
Ashley is an NHS doctor and Peninsula Medical School student, who recently completed the Remote and Expedition Medicine module.
“The most incredible thing about this module is the level of expertise and experience of the teachers. There is an outstanding level of teaching and taking away the experiences, tips and tricks of the teachers, just having such a hands-on and vocational teaching style really helps build confidence and leadership skills that I hope to take into more remote environments.”
