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Postgraduate taught programme
MRes
Scientific Diving
Train as a professional scientific diver through the world’s only master’s‑level programme, designed for students in biology and marine sciences. Gain advanced diving skills and contribute to vital ocean research in your future career.World-class scientific diving training
Study with one of Europe’s largest trainers of scientific divers and the UK’s only university offering a professional scientific diving programme. Our fully inclusive course provides hands‑on professional diver training, industry‑focused teaching, and opportunities to conduct research with leading scientific diving organisations worldwide.
Expert, research-led teaching
Undertake a bespoke programme delivered by academic and technical specialists who contribute to internationally recognised, cutting‑edge scientific diving research and projects.
Field‑course costs included
HSE SCUBA (or alternative skills training), flights, diving, kit hire, accommodation, and meals on diving days are all covered within your course fees—ensuring high‑level professional training with no hidden costs.
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Details
Year 1
Throughout this year you will gain a rigorous grounding in the theory and practice of scientific diving, developing the advanced skills needed to enter academic, conservation, government or commercial scientific diving roles, or to progress to further postgraduate study. You will learn to work safely, professionally and ethically in demanding environments, while building the capability to design, lead and contribute to complex professional scientific diving projects.
Core modules
SCIDIV5000
Scientific Diving Dissertation Project
Undertake an advanced dissertation grounded in scientific diving practice. Working with external organisations, or university departments, you’ll plan and execute a research project, collect and analyse underwater data and deliver a professional quality report and presentation. This module prepares you for specialist diving-based research roles.
SCIDIV5001
Scientific Diving Field Course
Apply your scientific diving training to a multi?day research expedition. Working as part of a dive team, you’ll design and carry out underwater surveys, develop species identification skills and practise safe, effective research diving techniques. This module builds strong competence in applied underwater science.
SCIDIV5002
Scientific Diving Research Skills
Learn the foundations of experimental design and statistics as applied to scientific diving. You’ll explore species identification skills and the logistics involved in planning and executing global dive expeditions. A mix of face-to-face and online seminars prepares you to design robust and safe diving-based research projects.
SCIDIV5003
Scientific Diving Theory and Practice
Develop the professional skills required for scientific diving, including gaining the HSE SCUBA qualification, or if already held, a suite of alternative courses. You’ll build strong theoretical knowledge and in-water techniques used in research, government and commercial roles, preparing you for safe, effective underwater scientific work in real-world settings.
If you choose to study part‑time, you’ll follow a fixed timetable. For further details about part‑time study structures, please email science.engineering@plymouth.ac.uk.
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:
Careers, industry and research
Dive into a career shaping the future of our oceans
With the strong and increasing international interest in marine conservation and research, highly trained scientific divers are a critical resource.
Scientific diving is a highly useful skill to the marine scientist, but obtaining professional standard training is very difficult. Many science divers start off with recreational diving qualifications and gradually gain professional skills over many years. The MRes Scientific Diving programme aims to train you comprehensively in the core skills you need to work professionally as a diving scientist at the start of your scientific career. With the increasing understanding of the importance and vulnerability of the oceans, and the push to protect 30% of our oceans by 2030, employment potential for highly skilled graduate scientific divers globally is increasing, from the poles to the tropics.
Plymouth is one of the top UK diving destinations and people come from all over the UK to dive there. As a student on the HSE diving course you get to dive these areas as part of the course - from famous ship wrecks to reefs with large amounts of marine life. Having the HSE diving qualification helped me get my dream job as a Marine Biologist working for The British Antarctic Survey and to this day keeps me in an exciting marine science career.
Terri -
BSc (Hons) Marine Biology graduate
A world‑class base for learning
During your studies, you'll have access to the
Marine Station , a state‑of‑the‑art teaching and research facility supporting all marine‑focused disciplines, from civil engineering to earth sciences and marine biology.
Located on the shores of Plymouth Sound within the University’s 'Waterfront Campus', it gives you labs and classrooms that extend directly into the natural environment. You can work in a dedicated wet lab for sample analysis, use a seawater aquarium, and take advantage of field‑equipment storage and changing facilities.
The Marine Station is also home to the University’s research vessels and serves as a centre of excellence for scientific diving, giving you hands‑on experience in real marine settings.
Dr Keiron Fraser
Associate Professor (Education) in Marine Conservation
Professor Richard Preziosi
Head of School
Dr Fran Hockley
Lecturer
Meet our school technical staff
Our technical staff are integral to the delivery of all our programmes and bring a diverse range of expertise and skills to support students in laboratories, workshops, and the field.
Postgraduate student life
Postgraduate study at the University of Plymouth is about more than just getting a qualification — it’s a chance to explore your subject in greater depth, challenge yourself intellectually, and grow both personally and academically.
With a supportive learning environment and flexible study options — including part-time and January start dates — you can shape your studies around your personal and professional commitments. Our supportive teaching, and welcoming student community, means you’ll be part of an environment that encourages curiosity, collaboration and independent thinking. Whether you're continuing from undergraduate study or returning to education, Plymouth offers the space, resources and inspiration to help you thrive.
The University takes every single step to ensure that students are supported. There are continuous workshops on referencing, a writing café and peer-supported learning sessions. Furthermore, lecturers are generally aware and sensitive to transitioning to university therefore they are always offering support when needed.
Joyita
MSc Advanced Psychology
MSc Advanced Psychology
Your Plymouth community
At the University of Plymouth, you get the same access to support, sports, and societies as undergraduate students. That means everything available to undergraduates is open to you too, whether it’s joining a sports club, attending events, taking part in student societies, or accessing health and wellbeing services.
You’re a full member of the Plymouth community, and that comes with all the benefits. So take advantage of what’s on offer — get involved, stay connected, and make the most of your time here.
Enrich your studies with the Postgrad Society
The Postgrad Society welcomes all postgraduate students - whether full-time, part-time, taught or research-based - offering a supportive space to connect beyond academic pressures. Join a vibrant community where you can unwind, celebrate achievements and meet likeminded peers through a wide range of activities - from pub quizzes, movie nights, and beach cleans to trips along the South West coastal path and the annual Postgraduate Christmas Ball.
Events are thoughtfully planned around key postgraduate milestones and often in collaboration with other societies, so you can try new things and make the most of your university experience.
Fees and funding
Tuition fees
Tuition fees for UK students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£18,600 per year
£18,600 per year
Module fees for repeated or part-time study
£1,030 per 10 credits
£1,030 per 10 credits
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
Fees and costs of studying .
Tuition fees for full-time international students starting in 2026-2027 academic year
Full-time study
£25,800 per year
£25,800 per year
Tuition fee price changes
Our fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about
fees and costs of studying .
UK Government announcement on tuition fees
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.
Fund your studies
As a postgraduate at Plymouth, there are plenty of funding options available, including postgraduate masters loans, scholarships, bursaries and support funds.
Postgraduate Masters Loans (PGML)
You may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Masters Loan to help with course fees and living costs while you study a postgraduate masters course.
Tuition fee discount for University of Plymouth graduates
If you studied your undergraduate degree at Plymouth, you may be eligible for a fee discount if you complete your postgraduate studies here as well.
- 10% or 20% discount on tuition fees for home students
Supporting students with the cost of living
The cost of living in the UK has risen faster than household income, meaning that most people will have less to spend on essential goods and services. This is an ongoing situation that is likely to affect everyone in some way.
The University provides advice and guidance and has a range of services, facilities and offers to help students with rising everyday costs.
Apply
Entry requirements
An honours degree in a relevant discipline such as marine biology, marine science, biology, zoology, ocean science, or an overseas equivalent at 2.1 or better.
If a candidate applies with a degree in a non-related discipline this may be considered if the applicant has significant relevant industry experience.
A minimum of grade C in English language at GCSE level OR a minimum overall score of 6.5 in IELTS with no less than 5.5 in any component.
Additional entry requirements
- PADI Rescue Diver or equivalent, or a higher diving qualification
- Ten dives experience of diving in cool water, at least five in a drysuit.
- A drysuit, undersuit, hood and gloves.
- Water-proof jacket and trousers.
- HSE diving medical – must be passed in Plymouth in the week before induction week if not already held at student’s cost. All candidates will need to have completed the MA1 pre-medical questionnaire form prior to their medical with a medical professional in their home country.
- First Aid at Work qualification – must be undertaken in Plymouth in the week before induction week if not already held, at student’s cost. Candidates must ensure this is the three-day First Aid at Work course not the one-day Emergency First Aid at Work course or similar.
- Oxygen Administration certificate – can be undertaken in Plymouth in the week before induction week at student’s cost.
- For the 2026 cohort, the ability to gain a visa to attend the field course in Indonesia, at the student’s cost. The field-course location may change in subsequent years.
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - evidence of qualifications (degree certificates or transcripts), to show that you meet, or expect to meet the entry requirements
- 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.
Ready to apply?
After you 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 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.
Programme code
7892
7892
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Entry requirements
We welcome applicants with international qualifications and we accept a range of qualifications from across the globe.
Contact the Faculty International Team
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can
register your interest in studying with us in 2026.
If you are an international applicant interested in information and future support you can
BSearch entry requirements for your country
5
Extended entry requirements
- a suitable English language qualification. The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
English language requirements - 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
- 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.
Ready to apply?
As an international student, you can apply for this course directly through the University of Plymouth or
through an agent in your country.
Need support with your application?
- Personal statement guidance
- Student visa support
- Travel and arrival information
- and more
After you 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.
Programme code
7892
7892
Duration
1 year
Course type
Full-time
Study location
Plymouth
Plymouth
Visit us at a postgraduate on-campus open evening
Visit us on campus to find out more about postgraduate study, speak to academic staff, and take a look around our campus and facilities.
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