School of Biological and Marine Sciences

MSc Hydrography

Duration

1 year
Course type

Full-time, Part-time route available
Study location Plymouth
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Hydrography is crucial to the sustainable management of marine environments. Yet there is an international shortage of hydrographic surveyors, data processors and analysts, during a period when technology is rapidly advancing. Seize this opportunity to gain a thorough knowledge of the science and technology of hydrography, experiencing the practical application of modern methods and equipment involved in exploring and managing the seabed whilst preparing for a career in this growth area.

Key features
  • Ranked top 15 in the UK and top 100 globally for Earth and Marine Sciences in the QS World University Rankings 2023.
  • Graduate from a course that spans a range of disciplines and is accredited by the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and the Chartered Institute of Civil Engineering Surveyors (CICES).
  • Develop your professional hydrographic competencies with a course that is aligned with the IFHS HPAS professional accreditation scheme.
  • Study with the ocean right on your doorstep in our waterfront city. Benefit from the practical research opportunities and links to international marine businesses this brings, as well as access to the University’s specialist Marine Institute and the active South West Hydrographic community who actively support the course including Valeport, Fugro and Sonardyne.
  • Study aboard the University’s fleet of hydrographic research vessels and develop hands-on experience in state-of-the-art and progressive survey techniques including a variety of methods of data collection.
  • Develop your expertise in a broad range of industry standard software including data processing, visualisation, analysis and developing programming skills in our specialist hydrographic processing suite.
  • Prepare yourself on a commercially focused programme that has been developed in response to industry requirements and an expressed commercial need. Progress to a career in hydrographic research and development, port, nearshore and offshore surveying or environmental support and management.
  • Learn to use equipment on aerial, surface and subsurface platforms including GNSS positioning, acoustic mapping and positioning (e.g. single beam, multibeam, sidescan sonar, USBL), oceanographic survey (e.g. ADCP), aerial survey (e.g. photogrammetry) and geophysical survey (e.g. subbottom assessment).
  • Take the opportunity to engage with recent technological developments in autonomous and remotely operated surveying techniques through specialist industry-led workshops and our own fleet of remotely operated and autonomous vehicles.
  • Engage in debates around the wider aspects of hydrography and the implications for data capture, data management, processing and information systems including participating within our affiliated societies e.g. the Hydrographic Society and the Society for Underwater Technology.
  • Benefit from support from our specialist technical and teaching staff, as well as access to a series of industrial speakers and demonstrations of the latest technologies.
  • Develop your research skills through engaging in an active research community with internationally recognized expertise from the coast to deep-water. Gain knowledge, practical and analytical skills needed to design, develop and implement a final research project at postgraduate level.
  • Enhance your career opportunities through engagement in our structured employability programme including industry-led career events, industry placements, student presentation evenings with commercial partners and attendance at international hydrographic conferences.
  • There is excellent recruitment from the programme to the marine sector with global opportunities and the potential to travel in conjunction with your employment.

Course details

  • Programme overview

  • Period 1 – an intensive 13 week programme of classroom learning and field activities prepare you for the technical aspects of surveying and the research required in master’s study. 70 per cent lectures/seminars and 30 per cent practical, either within the laboratory, workshop, in the field or afloat. Assessment is continual or by coursework.
    Period 2 – includes specialisms in advanced studies with a combination of the digital mapping and survey project management modules, designed to prepare students for practical roles and management decisions when completing hydrographic tasks on behalf of future employers. Modules are selected based on industrial expectations and potential career requirements. 80 per cent lectures/seminars, 20 per cent practical. Assessment is 50/50 coursework and formal examination for core modules, continuous for the one optional module.
    Period 3 – undertake a self-managed final dissertation, supervised by an assigned academic. May comprise a desk study, laboratory experimentation, field observations, data acquisitions and processing.

    Core modules

    MAR513
    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.

    MAR520
    Hydrography

    Practical work afloat centred on a bathymetric survey and supported by lectures on key topics - electromagnetic waves & acoustic waves, measurement techniques, computational processes and reference frames, supported by practical work with survey software to develop an understanding of methods employed and practical limitations in all aspects of positioning for hydrographic surveying.

    MAR521
    Acoustic and Oceanographic Surveying

    The module provides an introduction to physical oceanography and applied sediment dynamical processes (including dredging practices) relevant to estuaries and coastal waters. The module also provides the underpinning acoustic theory to enable students to appreciate sonar survey task. A range of relevant practical data collection techniques and exercises are included within the module.

    MAR524
    MSc Dissertation

    The student will complete a research project that they have designed in the semester 1 research skills module. The project can be submitted in the format of a journal paper or dissertation. The write-up will communicate the project aims, methodology, data analysis, interpretation, synthesis and conclusions.

    MAR539
    Advanced Hydrography

    To consider the information flow through hydrographic survey systems from data acquisition, processing to the visualisation of the final product and the means of assurance of data quality throughout. To examine the influences of user interaction on the processing of data at the various stages.

    MAR540
    Survey Project Management

    Introduces students to a full cycle hydrographic survey project, including tendering, costing, planning, data collection, data processing and reporting. There is a focus on the theory of operation hydrographic survey equipment and the development of a deep understanding of data quality control. The module also covers key background topics including the marine legislative framework and maritime operational environment.

    Optional modules

    MAR517
    Coastal Erosion and Protection

    This module applies knowledge of waves and coastal processes to understand and predict coastal erosion and accretion. The hard and soft engineering methods used for coastal protection are covered, with an emphasis on how improved understanding of the natural processes (waves, currents, sediment transport) can improve coastal management decisions).

    MAR518
    Remote Sensing and GIS

    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.

    MAR537
    Applied Marine Autonomy

    This module introduces students to marine autonomous platforms for marine environmental data collection. It focuses on the appropriate use of platforms, covering theory of operation and developing practical skills in autonomous marine data collection through workshops and fieldwork. The module also allows direct interaction with scientific researchers and industry practitioners through seminars.

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:

MSc Hydrography programme specification_2218

Entry requirements
A 2:1 or equivalent preferably in surveying, technology or science subjects. We will consider a 2:2 or equivalent or other relevant awards. If you don’t have any recent formal qualifications, we may accept workplace experience.
If you are interested in following the programme on a part-time basis you're encouraged to contact the programme leader.
If you have overseas qualifications you can check your comparability with Ecctis, who provide an advisory service.
If your first language is not English then evidence of English proficiency is required. The level of proficiency that is required can vary with the type of programme for which you are applying.
The minimum IELTS score for acceptable English proficiency for entry is normally 6.5 (with a minimum of 5.5 in each element).
We welcome applicants with international qualifications. To view other accepted qualifications please refer to our tariff glossary .

Fees, costs and funding
New student 2024-2025 2025-2026
Home £11,000 £11,350
International £19,800 £20,400
Part time (Home) £610 £630
Full time fees shown are per annum. Part time fees shown are per 10 credits. Please note that fees are reviewed on an annual basis. Fees and the conditions that apply to them shown in the prospectus are correct at the time of going to print. Fees shown on the web are the most up to date but are still subject to change in exceptional circumstances. More information about fees and funding.

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
  • For 2024/2025 entry, a 20% discount on tuition fees for international students (International alumni who have applied to the University through an agent are not eligible to receive the discount)

Postgraduate scholarships for international students

We offer several scholarships for international students who wish to study postgraduate taught (PGT) degree programmes.

How to apply

Apply online

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.

MSc Hydrography Student Scholarship supported by Elevate Offshore

This scholarship will provide one UK Home student intending to study MSc Hydrography at the University of Plymouth in September 2024 with fee free study and an industry mentor.
All applications must be received by 31 July 2024. Contact Dr Tim Scott for more information.
Apply for the scholarship
Elevate Offshore logo with blue background

This course and qualification is accredited by...

Our industry partners

Read about our latest partnerships with Sonardyne and the Royal Navy

Specialist equipment and facilities

Based on the waterfront, Plymouth is the perfect location for your marine studies. Gain access to the latest equipment, facilities and hands-on training from our expert staff.
With a dedicated fleet of survey vessels, state-of-the-art hydrographic equipment including use of marine robotic and autonomous vehicles, a purpose build hydrographic computer processing suite and specialist resources including the Marine Institute , you’ll learn state-of-the-art methods and soak up the latest thinking.
Hydrography students on fieldwork

The Falcon Spirit Research Vessel
Our dedicated research vessel, Falcon Spirit, is used for demonstrations and one-week practicals within Plymouth Sound. Her name honours Robert Falcon Scott, a Plymothian naval officer and polar explorer who attempted to be the first person to reach the South Pole.
Built by Alnmaritec of Northumberland the RV Falcon Spirit is an aluminium catamaran. This 13.65m survey vessel is coded by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency for 14 people to work up to 60 miles from safe haven. With a beam of six metres, it offers a large and stable 25m of floodlit configurable aft deck space.
Internally the vessel has dry laboratory space for a minimum of six workstations, plus a separate wet laboratory facility. With a pair of 500 horsepower diesel engines, the vessel is capable of a 300 mile range at a 15 knot service speed, with considerable power in reserve.
The vessel comes with the capability to troll at very slow speeds and has a one metre by one metre moon pool, two independent one tonne hydraulic capstans, and a 500kg pot hauler in way of a double door in the starboard bulwark.
Power is via an independent generator producing 12.3 kVa of clean power to a multitude of 240V sockets.
The RV Falcon Spirit offers you a flexible, high specification platform for marine research. Technician support includes the skipper for Falcon Spirit, computer, electronic and survey technicians.

Technology and equipment
You will have access to our large marine science equipment pool, including a broad range of terrestrial and marine survey instrumentation from traditional to state-of-the-art.
Our hydrographic equipment suite includes a high-end industry-grade multi-beam echo sounder with state-of-the-art positioning and motion systems. It is used for teaching, research and industry collaborations. The system enables students and researchers to perform detailed mapping of the subsurface environment and visualise in 3D seabed bathymetry, habitat type and important features such as shipwrecks.
Other acoustic mapping and positioning systems available include sidescan sonar, ultra short baseline positioning and Acoustic Doppler Current Profilers as well as equipment for sub-surface assessment.
We also have a number of unmanned aerial (drones), surface (unmanned surface vessels) and submarine survey platforms (remotely operated vehicles), with are increasingly used for teaching and research.
You will also have access to a wide range of industry standard acquisition and processing software available in the state-of-the-art Hydrographic processing suite.

The Marine Institute

An unmatched wave-testing tank. Modern equipment for use at sea and on-land. A gathering place for international marine businesses. The Marine Institute is all about sharing expertise in marine and maritime research and developing sustainable practical and policy solutions.
Bringing together more than 3,000 staff, students and researchers from across the University, the Marine Institute is brimming with expertise and ideas.
From ocean exploration to coastal engineering and sustainable environmental management, every marine related course is represented at the Institute. Staff and students from the Faculties of Science and Engineering; Arts, Humanities and Business; and Health share space, equipment and data.
With the latest international research at your fingertips, you’ll be able to set your study in the wider context of the marine environment. Share ideas with the scientists, policy makers, artists, technicians and business managers of today – and tomorrow.

The Marine Station
The Marine Station is a landmark £4.65 million development opened in 2014 which serves as the base for our marine expeditionary work. It's an exceptional teaching and research facility that’s located on the shores of Plymouth Sound – part of our ‘Waterfront Campus’, with classrooms extending out into the natural environment.
The Marine Station includes:
  • lecture facilities overlooking the sea
  • a wet lab for sample examination and analysis
  • a seawater aquarium
  • field equipment storage and changing facilities
  • a base for research vessels.
Unique to higher education in the UK, the Marine Station is also a centre of excellence for diving that enables you to get professional diving qualifications and develop valuable industry-relevant skills. Such skills have enabled our graduates to work as divers for television documentaries and surveyors for the British Antarctic Survey.

CETUS autonomous vessel
USV Cetus is an L3 Harris ‘C-Worker 4’, designed to accommodate a wide range of sensors, equipment and systems, and can operated remotely or as a semi-autonomous platform from a support vessel or land station.
This state-of-the-art commercial grade uncrewed survey boat is available to staff, students and collaborators for marine data gathering and systems development.
Falcon Spirit
Marine station
Diving in Plymouth Sound
Bassey Bassey – MSc Hydrography student

Employment opportunities

There’s an international shortage of skilled hydrographic surveyors, meaning great opportunities and strong industrial and employment links for successful graduates.
Our graduates are employed worldwide in careers including hydrographic surveyors, geophysicists, research and development specialists and operational managers.
Surveying is a core activity in the sustainable management of our coastal and marine environment and resources. Most commercial work is in ocean exploration for the renewable energy sector, maintenance and development of coastal and marine environmental management, maintenance and development of ports, safe navigation, and exploration for energy and minerals.
Hydrography employment students

Employment and internship opportunities (since 2016)

Professional competency

During the course of your studies you will have the opportunity to develop your professional competency. We align with the IFHS HPAS (Hydrographic Professional Accreditation Scheme) and support your development of a skills logbook, building your employability and providing opportunity to formalise many of the unique practical survey skills you will develop throughout the MSc Hydrography programme. The HPAS provides an internationally-recognised accreditation scheme providing a clear professional development route within the hydrographic sector. Participation in the scheme will allow you to enhance both your employability and future promotional prospects as a hydrographic professional.
IMCA scheme hydrography

"This programme opens doors for individuals pursuing both industry or research careers. Whether you are interested in offshore surveying, programming the next autonomous fleets or keeping coastal erosion at bay, you can expect a challenging but highly rewarding year ahead. The pace of learning is tailored to the group and the equipment/methods you use are recognized by professionals in the field. I especially appreciated the broad spectrum of thesis topics on offer and continue to enjoy the supportive atmosphere prevalent between alumni, lecturers and the greater hydrographic community."

Natalie Cornish, MSc Hydrography graduate

Research and consultancy

Hydrography is a rapidly evolving field, with recent technological advances in marine robotics, autonomous vehicles and smart sensors. This rapid development in technology means that we are now able to collect increasingly higher-resolution data, multidisciplinary and multi-year datasets and map previously inaccessible regions, helping us to answer big global challenges.
You can apply to go on to study a PhD degree at Plymouth or elsewhere.
Read about our recent hydrographic research activities with local SMEs for seagrass detection using autonomous vessels with Innovate UK.
Developing autonomous technology to assess condition of seagrass beds
South West innovators collaborate to develop enhanced solutions for seagrass monitoring

Current research areas at the University of Plymouth include:

News about current research and opportunities can be found in our biannual Marine Science newsletter .
coastal processes research group people
Coastal Processes Research Group (CPRG)
Marine Physics Research Group - ROV operations aboard RRS James Cook
Marine Physics Research Group
Coastal Marine Applied Research
Coastal Marine Applied Research (CMAR)

Our graduates

Celene Burnell alumni graduate hydrography

Colin Entwistle – BA (Hons) Business Studies and MSc Hydrography graduate

"I have so many memories from studying at Plymouth... I’ve been here over ten years now, so it’s too hard to mention just one."
Colin Entwistle

Alan Robertson – MSc Hydrography graduate

"My current line of work is a direct result of studying at the University. The hydrography masters course is held in high regard within the industry and the modular structure meant that a vast array of subjects were covered."
Alan Robertson

Annual Student Presentations Evening

Sponsored by the Hydrographic Society, our students have the opportunity to present in front of prospective employers and students.
Watch this short video and find out how the students got involved and how it was of benefit to them.

Meet your lecturers

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.