Hydrographer to the core
Current MSc Hydrography student Bassey Bassey talks about his passion for studying the subject at Plymouth
A world-wide reputation for hydrography
The University of Plymouth’s MSc Hydrography programme has a world-wide reputation as a first-class training hub for hydrographic surveyors. The programme is an absolute leverage for anyone looking to switch or start a career in the maritime industry as a hydrographer.
Structured to encompass both the theoretical and practical aspects of hydrography, the programme offers a proper preparatory ground if you are looking to delve into the industry or further research.
There has never been an abundance of hydrographic surveyors at any point in time, so the world is always in search for more.
Hydrography is crucial for the sustainable management of marine environments
It is a field of study that involves the exploration and management of the seabed using modern methods and equipment.
Hydrography is a specialisation in geoinformatics and surveying and I first learnt about it in a module in my undergraduate degree.
Luckily, during my placement that same year, I had the opportunity to join an actual offshore hydrographic survey party. Whilst it was quite challenging living and working offshore, my experience bolstered my interest in hydrography even further.
Not only was the whole process interesting, but I also recognised the career opportunities and subsequent earning potential it offered, which led to my decision to pursue a masters degree in the subject.
Plymouth's hydrography masters programme is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the science and technology involved in pursuing a career path – both in the industry and as an academic.
This includes all the aspects involved in ocean mapping including:
- data acquisition
- using state of the art acoustic equipment
- data analysis
- data presentation.
Hands-on learning
Studying at Plymouth gave me vast experience in using a broad range of industry-standard hydrographic equipment and software.
Alongside the arrival of autonomous operations in the industry, the programme also gives you a direct foresight into the current trends in hydrography as a profession through the marine autonomy module, which I found very useful.
This module exposed me to various autonomous platforms which are currently employed in revolutionising the hydrography industry. I am currently carrying out my dissertation on a topic pertaining to the application of one of such robots known as the Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV).
World-class facilities and teaching
The University boasts top-notch and comfortable survey vessels for onboard training and data acquisition. There have been fieldwork days where I’ve had to either carry out mobilisation on the boat or I’ve been out on Plymouth Sound for data collection.
These sessions have helped me to develop data acquisition skills as an online hydrographic surveyor and given me first-hand knowledge of the principles of my future job.
The support from the technical support staff has been nothing but excellent, especially during data collection and processing.
Staff are always ready to give in-depth explanations through every stage, with lots of real-life scenarios owing to their years of experience – they are indeed excellent professionals.
Not only are the lectures delivered comprehensively, but the lecturers also go the extra mile by arranging support sessions for challenging course works.
Lecture rooms and library are world-class, coupled with a computer room with workstations equipped with the latest industry-based hydrography software packages, provide invaluable data processing and analysing experiences.
Highly competent staff ensures the easy usage of these facilities, making it an exceptional environment for learning and research and a very positive experience.
A strong career focus
The University organises several career events where top players in the industry turn up for active recruitment. While many of the modules integrate lots of seminars from top companies, which gives you clues of what the current trends in the profession are.
I have also had direct engagement with the hydrography professional body, The Hydrographic Society UK & Ireland (THS:UKI), and I am a student member.
I hope to go straight into the marine surveying industry as an online/hydrographic surveyor. I also want hands-on experience with data handling and management, so I’m equally open to data processor roles. The University has been most helpful with regard to assisting me to achieve this goal.
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. Experience the practical application of modern methods and equipment involved in exploring and managing the seabed and prepare for a career in this growth area.
Study MSc Hydrography
